Volunteer
At Florida Studio Theatre, volunteers are vital in helping us continue our mission of making theatre accessible and affordable to the Sarasota community. Volunteers generously donate their time by helping out in one or more of our various departments. In return, they get an inside peek at the workings of Florida Studio Theatre, meet high-caliber actors and artists, and witness the process of taking a production off the ground and onto the stage.
FST is seeking enthusiastic and committed volunteers to assist in the following areas:
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Ushering
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Handyman Services
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Gardener
- Data Entry
- Mailing Support
- Telephone Calls
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Costume Shop (Stitchers)
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Production (Carpenters and Painters)
- Flyer Distribution
- Airport Transportation for Artists
For more information, or if you have questions, contact us at FSTVolunteers@floridastudiotheatre.org
Frequently Asked Volunteer Questions
What does a volunteer usher do?
Volunteer ushers play an important role in creating a welcoming and enjoyable experience for our guests. As an usher, you’ll greet and seat patrons, assist with ticket scanning, distribute and collect playbills, and help answer general questions about the theatre.
At the end of each performance, ushers also assist with light clean-up duties, including collecting playbills and helping guests exit the theatre. Your friendly presence and attentiveness help ensure every guest has a positive experience from arrival to curtain call.
What are the minimum physical requirements and expectations?
To ensure the safety and comfort of our guests, volunteer ushers should be able to:
- Climb at least 10 stairs
- Stand for 30 consecutive minutes
- Read size 12 font
- Provide special assistance to guests with disabilities (including placement of wheelchairs, walkers, etc.)
- Assist with light theatre clean-up duties
In addition, FST expects all volunteers to:
- Be respectful of House Managers and fellow volunteers
- Keep track of assigned shifts and responsibilities
- Arrive on time and prepared for each shift
- Notify FST at least 24 hours in advance if you are unable to fulfill a scheduled shift
These expectations help ensure a smooth, professional, and welcoming environment for both our guests and volunteer team.
What is the time commitment?
Arrival times vary depending on the type of performance. We host both Mainstage productions and Cabaret performances. For Cabarets, guests may dine before showtime, which may affect the flow of the evening.
We ask that ushers arrive at least 30 minutes before doors open to help prepare for seating and receive any important pre-show information. Arrival times are always clearly communicated in advance.
A typical usher shift lasts approximately 3–5 hours total, depending on the production.
We do ask that you stay for the duration of the performance and assist after the show by collecting playbills and helping see guests safely out the door. Your support from start to finish helps ensure a smooth and welcoming experience for everyone.
How do I start volunteering at FST?
Getting started is easy! First, fill out our Interest Form and tell us a little bit about yourself. Once we receive and review your form, we will email you a welcome packet that includes general policies and important information about volunteering with us.
We ask that you carefully review the packet and respond with a confirmation. Once you’ve completed the onboarding process, you’ll be ready to begin ushering! We’ll then reach out with instructions on how to schedule your shifts.
We offer in-person training sessions in the spring and throughout the summer. Our experienced volunteer team is also happy to welcome new ushers, show you the ropes, and guide you through your first few shifts so you feel confident and comfortable.
We look forward to having you join our volunteer community!
Where do I park?
Convenient parking options include:
Chase & ICORR Parking Garages | Located on Palm Avenue across from the Keating Theatre & Goldstein Cabaret. Free parking available after 5:00 PM Monday–Friday and all day on Saturdays & Sundays.
Palm Ave Parking Garage | Located on Palm Avenue just behind the Art Ovation Hotel. First hour free (registration required), followed by $2 for the second hour, and $1 for each additional hour.
On-Street Parking | Available as posted
What do I wear?
Ushers wear black-and-white business-casual attire. A white blouse or shirt with black pants or a black skirt is required. A black or white jacket, sweater, or vest is optional.
An overall tidy appearance is expected.
I love FST’s emphasis on education and community inclusion. Ushering at FST provides an opportunity to interact with people who are willing to explore a diversity of ideas. It’s always nice to be appreciated for volunteering and FST never takes its volunteers for granted.
