Actor Interpreter, Part-Time

OVERVIEW:

The Part-Time Actor/Interpreter is a key member of The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis’ world class Interpretation department’s performance team. The incumbent engages in presentations by providing the highest quality immersive and interactive experiences for children and families.  The A/I researches and delivers a full range of interpretive progams including: informal interactions, first- and third- person characters, tours, museum created mascots, costumed characters, storytellers, and dramatic presentations.  They also consistently support and cooperate with colleagues as well as assists with gallery maintenance. 

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Plays an integral role in the establishment of a resident interpretive troupe exemplifying the best performance standards in the field of museum theater and interpretation.


2. Studies, practices and is able to perform consistently to the standards of excellence in interpretation. Attends on-going interpretive training sessions. Is consistently physically and vocally prepared for rehearsals and performances.


3. Prepares for the presentation of programs by researching subject matter, memorizing scripts and honing presentation techniques and skills. Consistently learns and presents interpretive programs by researching, memorization, and honing presentation techniques.


4. Presents programs and interacts directly with visitors daily, including set up and take down of sets, props and seating, gathering audiences and conducting post performance discussions.


5. Engages in on-going research and information collection to assist in maintaining relevant scripts and to facilitate post show discussions.


6. Participates in evaluating staff and audience response to interpretation presentations.


7. Maintains cleanliness of costumes and uniforms, performs minor repairs, and notifies Interpretation Operations Manager of larger needs. Maintains daily audience attendance records.


8. Performs museum created mascots on site.


9. If portraying a specific character, makes every reasonable effort by means of makeup and hair style to resemble character being portrayed.


10. Conscientiously adheres to schedule. Prioritizes museum commitments and informs manager of any known conflicting outside commitments to rehearsals or performances well in advance.

The Children’s Museum is open six to seven days per week.  Actor/Interpreters are required to work a flexible and varying schedule, which may include 2-3 evenings a month for special events. 

REQUIREMENTS:

1. A bachelor’s degree in Theater, formal training in Theater arts, or equivalent performance experience. Two years presentation or interpretation experience strongly preferred.


2. One year of experience working with children and youth in formal and informal environments.


3. Strong performance skills, a demonstrated commitment to educational Theater.


4. Availability to work a flexible weekday, weekend, evening and some holidays schedule, including 2-3 evenings per month.


5. Ability to interact with visitors and co-workers in a professional, supportive, positive, and friendly manner.


6. Capacity to work collegially within a fast-paced professional environment that highly values diversity and inclusion. Maintain professional behavior, acceptable to co-workers and the general museum culture.

ADA REQUIREMENTS:

1. Must be able to perform extensive work in indoor environments, to perceive space, to read documents and diagrams and to view computer monitor.


2. Must be able to communicate through projecting voice and varying tone. Team and group dialog required for communication of plans and concepts.


3. Must be able to sit, stand, squat and kneel for long periods of time frequently in costume or uniform.  Must be able to negotiate pedestrian travel throughout the museum physical plant and campus.


4. Must be able to lift objects up to 45 pounds of weight and tolerate dust in the environment.