How to See Theater For Free

Many theaters allow people to volunteer to be ushers. Volunteer ushers get to see the show for free in exchange for helping out. Becoming an usher is easy.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A white button down shirt
• Black pants or a black skirt
• Good people skills

1. Decide which performance of the show you want to see.

2. Call the theater and ask if they use volunteers to usher the shows. If the person in the box office doesn't know then ask for the house manager. But chances are the first person you speak to will have the answer.

3. Call before the date you want to see the show. If you wait to long all the ushering slots will be taken.

4. You may have to go in to the theater to sign up in person, or you might be able to do it over the phone or email.

5. Usher duties may include, stuffing programs, tearing tickets, helping people find their seats, and helping to clean the theater after the show.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to arrive on time at the time the house manager expects you. Plan on being at the theater before the audience arrives and after the audience leaves.
• If you commit to being an usher and can't let the theater know 24 hours in advance.
• When you call to ask about ushering, try not to call within a half hour of a show starting. That's the busiest time for the front of house, and they may not have time to talk.
• Some theaters host more than plays, ushering can be a good way to see concerts and other performances also.
• Try asking friends to usher with you, theaters are happy to have groups of volunteer.
• Ushering can be a fun date.

[maryladd]

on 11/16/2009 would have never thought of this..good info and I enjoyed your article..thank you..recommended 5 *

[maryladd]

on 11/16/2009 would have never thought of this..good info and I enjoyed your article..thank you..recommended 5 *

[kinderhook]

on 11/13/2009 Sounds like fun! Remember, to keep your black pants or black skirt looking great, see "How to Keep Black Clothes Looking Black" http://www.ehow.com/how_5430752_keep-black-clothes-looking-black.html 5*

[solutionsforu]

on 11/4/2009 Great article on How to See Theater For Free. I've done this before and it works great. 5*

[juliemcmurchie]

on 11/4/2009 I love the theater. Great idea for seeing theater productions for free. A little volunteer work is good for the soul, as well.