How to See Plays for Free - An Ushering Guide

Have you ever thought about ushering, but wasn’t sure what it was about? I’ve been ushering on-and-off for over ten years and there’s no better way to see free entertainment while serving the venues that make it happen.

Plus, some organizations have volunteer appreciation programs where they offer discount tickets after ushering a certain number of shows. If you have the time, it really is a win-win situation.

Here are some tips on choosing where to usher and then how to do it.

Tip #1 Usher a Place You Like to Attend Plays
It may seem obvious. Usher where you’ve seen plays or events and have enjoyed them. Chances are, the same type of events will be held there in the future. Plus, you’ll be familiar with the venue.

Tip #2 How to Get Information on Ushering
The easiest way to find out information about ushering is to go to the venue’s web site and look under the “Volunteer” section. They’ll usually have all the information on how to sign up to become an usher. Another choice is to email the house manager. Once at orientation you’ll need to pay attention to a couple of important things:

Tip #3 Know how long You are on Duty
During your orientation, note your call time or when you should arrive at the theatre. This could range between an hour to two hours before the show. You’ll need to know where you’ll sit during the show and when you’re off-duty.

I’ve ushered at theatre where you can leave fifteen minutes into the second act and another where you are expected to be on duty until after the end of the show. Ask.

Tip #4 Treat Ushering Like the Job it Is
Yes, you are a volunteer, but you are also representing the theatre. For the most part, you are the face of the theatre. Treat it seriously. Show up on time and in uniform. Be friendly. Smile.

Tip #5 Know the Dress Code
The dress code for ushers is usually black bottoms and a white shirt. For women, to be on the safe side, you will need to wear hose and closed toe shoes. No perfume or cologne. Each venue is different, though. Some community theaters allow you to wear jeans. Check out the information.

Tip #6 Wear Comfortable Clothes
Make sure that your shoes are comfortable. You will be standing around for long periods of time. You also might want to bring along a white cardigan. Theaters tend to be cold.

A tip for the ladies is to wear skirts that fall between your knees and your ankles. They need to be long enough not to offend patrons. They need to be short enough so you don’t trip over it going up and down stairs. (Ask me how I know.)

A better idea is to wear slacks. If there are no seats available, you will probably end up sitting in the aisle.

Tip #7 Have an Ushering Bag
This bag should contain everything you need when you usher. Definitely include your usher badge, breath mints and your pen light. If ushers are given any coupons for discounted parking or meals, include them in the bag.

The goal is that when you usher for a show you won’t have to hunt around for anything. It will be right there.

Tip #8 For your first performances, usher during the first week or a matineeThe first time I ushered was for a sold-out concert on a Saturday night. There was not enough volunteers so I had two sections. Can you say trial by fire?

Go easy on yourself. For your first night, choose a night during the week if they’re available. If not, go for a matinee. These performances are usually low-key and you will have a chance to familiarize yourself with the theater.

Tip #9 Usher Early in a Play’s Run
Shows early in the run are usually not sold-out. As word gets around town about how great the play is, however, it will be harder to get an ushering slot.

There you go. Now there’s no excuse not to go to the theater.