End-of-Performance Mission

[This message was sent by e-mail to all volunteer ushers on October 17, 2016.]

I want to clarify our policy for end-of-performance duties.

It is important to me that everyone makes the effort to stay after the performance -- on every level including lobbies -- to say good night to our patrons, to thank them for coming, and also to assist the staff with clearing the auditorium and lobbies and watching for safety and security issues.

That said, I understand this is not always possible, for personal and/or professional reasons. And sometimes you have worked a performance multiple times and don't want to stay again.

Fewer ushers are needed after final intermission than during the rest of the shift. It is perfectly fine for you to ask your supervisor to be excused; I encourage you to let your supervisor know during briefing that you would like to leave early. I have instructed my staff to dismiss ushers making this request when enough other ushers are staying. It is important that you communicate your wishes so that we know who is leaving and can make adjustments if necessary. Please schedule one-time events, such as galas, only if you can commit to staying.

Lots more help is needed for Aida and Madama Butterfly [this was in 2016], especially the evening performances starting November 12 (except the 17th and 18th). Even if you can't signup for more, please try to do the ones you have already scheduled. Having enough experienced ushers for new audiences is better for everyone.

I appreciate each and every one of you, what you contribute as well as the individual personality that you bring to our family of ushers. I want you all to volunteer as often as you would like whenever space is available. Please do not limit your participation because you cannot always stay through the end when you have reason to be dismissed early.

Jamye