2023 - 2024 THEATRE HANDBOOK

THEATRE USHER POLICIES
Ushers are the audience’s first contact at the theatre. Ushers should be helpful, courteous, and professional. The
guidelines below are written to follow theatrical best practices.
1. Ushers are required to stay for the entire performance and to return to their initial post as patrons leave in case
there are issues. No exceptions.
2. Ushers are to arrive one hour and fifteen minutes prior to tickets going on sale.
3. Upon arrival, Ushers are to:
a. Review standard procedures;
b. Ask questions;
c. Assist patrons by answering questions as to other locations they can visit prior to production and referring
them to the Assistant Box Office Managers if they are unable to answer their question(s);
d. Check the house so they’ll know where they’re to sit during the production;
e. Check restrooms for issues (i.e., leaking faucets, clogged toilets, etc.) and immediately report them to the
Assistant Box Office Managers;
4. Ushers are required to wear a white or light-colored top and black or dark pants or skirt.
5. Food and beverages are not allowed inside the theatre. Ushers should kindly ask patrons to return their items to the
lobby. The theatre is not responsible for overseeing patron belongings.
6. Ushers should keep the theatre roped off and patrons in the lobby until the Assistant Box Office Managers authorize
opening. Upon opening, secure the rope by attaching it to end of the hook or ring mounted on the wall so you, and
patrons, will not trip.
7. The Usher checking programs/tickets stands by the railing at the top of the stairs going down into The Underground
or at the bottom of the stairs leading up to Mainstage, depending on the location of the production. They should:
a. Close the doors leading into the seating area when the performance begins
b. Prop the doors open in preparation for intermission
c. Close the doors at the end of intermission
d. Prop the doors open at the end of the performance.
8. The Usher issuing programs stands at the bottom of the stairs by the double doors for shows in The Underground
or at the top of the stairs for shows on Mainstage. They should:
a. Give one program to each patron (unless programs are used as tickets)
b. Return extra programs to the Assistant Box Office Managers before being seated in the theatre.
c. Review the house seating areas to see what’s available and help patrons find seats if needed.
9. Ushers are to be the last ones seated and should sit in the designated seats close to the EXIT doors.
10. Any audience disturbance should be reported immediately.
a. Do not put yourself in danger. Help diffuse the situation if you are comfortable.