Volunteers: The ‘backbone’ of the Erie Playhouse

Photo by Jack Hanrahan/ Erie Times-News.

Like the Erie Philharmonic, the Erie Playhouse depends on volunteers to help their performances go off without a hitch.

Have a stunning voice? Play an instrument? Enjoy fundraising? All of those skills can be put to use at the Erie Playhouse.

In fact, on its website, the Erie Playhouse calls volunteers the “backbone” of their operation.

Here’s how you can get involved:

Take the stage

Auditions for Erie Playhouse productions are usually four to six weeks before opening night. Check out Showcase for current listings.

Play a tune

Musicians are encouraged to try out for the playhouse’s pit band. According to the Erie Playhouse website, “the volunteer pit musicians have played everything from Gershwin to Sondheim as well as Hammerstein, Elton John, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Bernstein, Menken, Yeston and many others.”

If you are interested in lending your musical talents, call 814-454-2852, ext. 6 or e-mail Andrew.

Usher in patrons

The Erie Playhouse says that ushering is their most popular volunteer opportunity. Ushers seat patrons, collect tickets and sell 50/50 raffle tickets.

Ushers are needed for Mainstage productions, concerts and special events.

If you are interested in ushering at the Playhouse, email or call 814-454-2852 ext. 0.

Volunteer behind the scenes

“The Wing,” as the playhouse calls it, is a group of volunteers who work to  support the playhouse. Their tasks range from fundraising to selling gifts to operating the concession stand.

Members of the Wing meet the first Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Erie Playhouse.

To join the Wing, contact Danielle Dickson, Wing President, or visit the box office.

Join the board

The Erie Playhouse Board of Directors is actively looking for new members. Board members use their professional skills to help advance this nonprofit.

The Erie Playhouse prefers potential board members to have experience in one of these fields: Legal, accounting, marketing, strategic planning, financial, human resource, community relations or production-related experience.

A board position requires a 5 to 10 hour monthly commitment. Board members serve three-year terms.

To apply, fill out this online form.

Whatever your skillset, the Erie Playhouse will find a way to put it to use.

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I’m always looking for more volunteer opportunities to feature on Volunteer Erie. Let me know about your organization at catherine.cloutier@timesnews.com.