This past weekend I worked my first shift as an usher at my school's theater. I was in need of an on-campus job to make some extra cash, and heard from a friend of mine they were hiring. So I figured, why not?
Somehow it ended up reminding me quite a bit of my summer jobs as a ride attendant at amusement parks: You work while others play. My "uniform" for the night (white shirt, black pants, red tie) is admittedly a big improvement when compared to the affectionately named "Taco Bell Reject" outfit I used to wear, or the one that made me look like a Forest Ranger. But whether you're working at a theme park or a theater, excellent guest service is a must to make sure your guests are happy. (It's the Disney in me - they're "guests," not "customers." I also still always point with two fingers.)
I stood by the entrance doors, smiling and scanning tickets, telling people to enjoy the show. And I felt like I was back at Disneyland, giving directions and answering questions, trying to keep that smile on my face. I was glad to have my amusement park days behind me, so it was strange to be so strongly reminded of them.
Of course, there are still many differences. I'm inside. With air conditioning. I won't be worried about fainting while operating kiddy rides. Hopefully sometimes I'll even get to sit inside and watch the shows. (This weekend I wasn't so lucky to get such a position.) And certainly it'll be interesting to see some of the behind the scenes operations.
With my rapidly approaching graduation in early December, I won't be there long. But I figure, if I want to write about theater, it can't hurt to work in one for a bit, right?
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