Our volunteers assist in a variety of roles ranging from:
- Ushers
- Bartenders
- Merchandise
- Promotional Material Distribution
- Decorating & Social Events
The following is a description of the various volunteer roles:
Ushers:
The Ushers role is one of customer service to the patrons and of assisting the Front of House Manager (FOH Mgr.) to keep things running smoothly.
Prior to the start of the show the FOH Mgr. may require assistance putting out publications/marketing materials, etc. Once the doors to the auditorium open, the ushers will be stationed at either Door 1 or Door 2. Two of the ushers will scan patron's tickets as they enter the auditorium, while the third usher will arrange to help the patrons to find their seats.
The ushers need to be aware of the venue's layout as well as our policies so they will be able to answer any questions patrons may have. Should issues arise, ushers are encouraged to try to resolve as they materialize. If the patron continues having difficulties, ushers are encouraged to seek assistance from management.
At the end of an event/performance, the ushers assist with the clean-up of the venue, assisting to remove any papers, cups, and wrappers that may have been left behind by patrons and dispose of them in the proper receptacles.
These shifts generally last 3 to 3 1/2 hours depending on how early/late patrons arrive/leave. Ushers are expected to arrive 1/2 hour prior to doors opening which is usually half an hour prior to the start of the performance (i.e., for a 7:30 pm show time, ushers should arrive no later than 6:30 pm to assist patrons when the door opens at 7:00 pm).
Bartenders:
In order to serve as a bartender at the deCoste, you are required to complete the Serve Right Server online course offered through TIANS. The cost of doing this will be covered by the deCoste. This can be discussed with Jennifer MacLennan prior to starting to volunteer.
Bartenders are expected to arrive an hour and 15 minutes prior to the start of a show (i.e., for a 7:30 pm show start time, bartenders should arrive between 6:15 pm to 6:30 pm).
Bartenders should become familiar with our products as well as the pricing. Training on debit/credit machines will be provided.
Upon arrival, set up bar by ensuring the following:
- cash till is available; debit/credit machines are operational (ensure rolls of paper are available)
- fill ice bucket from ice machine in the kitchen
- display hard alcohol on shelves to provide easy access during serving
- display concession stand products
- ensure there are enough cups
- ensure there are cleaning supplies available (paper towel/wet/dry cloths) for clean up
- ensure concession items (bars & chips) are stocked and ready
- ensure Concession Stand Menu/price list is on display (cross off anything not on list)
- Check if there were any pre-orders
- Serve patrons until 5 minutes after show starts (unless it’s a busier evening and the line-up is long).
- Close bar during intermission (unless instructed otherwise to do so)- (turn off lights & close /doors windows
- Replenish inventory. Pop, water, and most alcohol is kept in the kitchen. Bars & chips may be in cupboards or shelves.
- Open bar back up 5 minutes prior to intermission and serve until the last patron has been served (usually no later than 5 minutes after start of show).
- Once bar has closed for the evening, put all stock of alcohol, pop & snacks away (be sure alcohol is locked in cupboards in Murray Room Bar).
- Dump ice in Murray Room Bar sink
- Wipe down counters
- Check inventory of supplies and update inventory list
- Return cash boxes to Finance Manager in the Box Office.
Merchandise:
Merchandise Volunteers are asked to arrive 1 hour prior to the start of the show. (i.e. arrive by 6:30 pm for a 7:30 pm show). Upon arrival check the following:
- Ensure debit/credit machine is available and functioning (check paper roll dispenser)
- Ensure there is a cash float; take note of beginning amount
- Become familiar with artists merchandise and pricing
- Confirm Inventory Sheet is accurate
- Ensure product is displayed in an attractive manner
- When approached by a potential customer, be courteous and answer any questions as best possible.
- Record any sales using a tick mark in appropriate boxes.
- When show starts cover merchandise with table cover provided and take cash box with you or store in auditorium bar.
- Be ready 5 minutes prior to the start of intermission to be ready to sell merch again during intermission. (Same for end of the show).
- At end of evening, with the FOH Manager, count the inventory and make sure sales balance out.
Promotional Material Distribution:
A variety of promotional materials including flyers, brochures or posters need to be distributed throughout the Pictou County/Antigonish and Truro Area. The deCoste Marketing Manager requires additional assistance with this. A list of distribution locations is provided, and volunteers will be paid adequate mileage and a stipend.
Decorating & Social Events:
The deCoste hosts a wide variety of events, many of which require additional set up, which may include decorating, including for special holidays. Extra hands make for faster/ lighter work. The time frames can vary for these, so any additional help that can be offered is appreciated.
