Performing Arts House Manager

University of Wisconsin-Madison - Student jobs; United States; Remote; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

The Children's Theater of Madison is seeking a dedicated House Manager to manage front-of-house operations during public performances. This role involves coordinating with staff, training volunteers, and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all patrons. Ideal candidates will have strong customer service skills and availability for weekend shifts.

Qualifications

• Enthusiastic self-starter who confidently takes initiative.
• Ability to maintain a lively and engaging atmosphere.
• Preferred experience in theater operations or hospitality.

Responsibilities

• Manage front-of-house operations and serve as House Manager.
• Supervise volunteer ushers and ensure proper training.
• Lead concessions setup and sales during performances.

Skills

Customer service

Communication

Problem solving

Tools

POS devices

Job description

Department Overview:

Children’s Theater of Madison (CTM), is dedicated to sparking imagination and building community through the creation and experience of theater. For over 55 years, CTM has been part of the cultural fabric of South-Central Wisconsin, providing exceptional theater productions and educational programs for youth and families. Inclusion is a core value at CTM, and creating an inclusive workplace and work culture is essential. To learn more about us, visit ctmtheater.org/get-to-know-us.

Anticipated Start Date

9/15/25

Anticipated Hours Per Week

10 to 20

Schedule:

This role primarily requires weekend availability. Shifts typically range from 4-8 hours on Saturdays and Sundays, and occasional 4 hour shifts on Friday nights. Occasional weekday shifts for student matinees may be required, typically 2-3 hours.

The scheduled weekends are listed below. Depending on individual schedules and availability, we may hire multiple candidates to ensure coverage.

• October 11th - 19th, 2025
• November 29th - December 21st, 2025
• February 7th - 22nd, 2026
• March 7th - 22nd, 2026
• May 2nd - 17th, 2026
• Four weekends during the summer of 2026.

It has on-site work requirements at Madison Youth Arts Center (MYArts). There is bicycle parking onsite; numerous nearby bus routes; street and garage parking. This role involves standing, walking, and occasional bursts of rapid activity. Reasonable accommodations can be made.

Salary/Wage Range:

Hourly $17.00 to $17.00

Number Of Positions

1

Position Summary/Job Duties:

THE ROLE: Children’s Theater of Madison (CTM) is seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented House Manager to support front-of-house operations for all CTM public performances at MYArts (Madison Youth Arts Center). Working alongside the Patron Services Manager, you will create a welcoming experience for everyone who walks through our doors. This role involves training our volunteers, setting up for performances, coordinating with the Box Office and Stage Management, and ensuring every performance runs safely and efficiently. It’s a great fit for someone with fabulous people skills, a love for theater, and the initiative and flexibility to stay organized in a fast-paced environment.

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING:

• Manage front-of-house operations along with our Patron Services Manager. Serve as the supporting role when the Patron Services Manager is the lead and take on the role of House Manager in their absence.
• Supervise and provide direction to volunteer ushers, ensuring they are properly trained and assigned appropriate duties.
• Troubleshoot technical difficulties with ticketing and or concessions.
• Collaborate with the Box Office and Production teams to manage audience seating, late seating, and special accommodations.
• Ensure the safety of all patrons in the case of an emergency. Monitor lobby areas, seating sections, and emergency exits so they remain organized and safe.
• Lead the concessions setup and sales, and prepare the lobby for intermission and post-show activities.
• Complete post-show reports detailing audience attendance, incidents, and other relevant information.

Qualifications:

• Enthusiastic self-starter who confidently takes initiative and solves problems independently.
• Fabulous customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to resolve issues promptly and creatively while maintaining a lively and engaging atmosphere. Service with a smile!
• Technically savvy and comfortable with POS devices.
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and solve problems under pressure.
• Basic knowledge of accessibility accommodations and emergency procedures preferred.
• Preferred experience in theater operations, hospitality, or event management. If no previous experience, demonstrate a strong willingness to develop the skills essential to the role.
• Availability for weekends and occasional weekdays based on performance schedules.

Physical Demands

This role involves standing, walking, and occasional bursts of rapid activity. Reasonable accommodations can be made.

Application Instructions:

TIMELINE / APPLICATION PROCESS:

• Applications will be reviewed as they are received
• Interviews will begin shortly thereafter
• We hope to have the position filled by September 2025

HOW TO APPLY: Email Marielle Shiring, Patron Services Manager, at [e-mail] with the subject line "House Manager Applicant - Last Name" Please include the following:

• Work Experience or Resume that reflects your qualifications for this position.
• A letter of interest or video describing your experience as it relates to this position, and what excites you about the opportunity.

Children’s Theater of Madison is proud to be an equal opportunity employer

Contact:

Org: Children's Theater of Madison
Contact: Amy Montoya
Web: ctmtheater.org
Email: [e-mail]