What are the odds of getting hired by the New Amsterdam as an usher?

[winston89]

Posted: 12/18/07 at 7:08pm

I just submitted my job application to the theatre for a job as an usher.

But, I was wondering what are the odds of me getting hired. Anyone have any idea?

[JaredBway]

Posted: 12/18/07 at 7:40pm

It can be a rather hard job to get ONLY because they already have such a big staff. When I applied they brought me in for two interviews and then offered me a sub spot which you have to work for a while until some regular slots open up. They have a lot of regulars so it's hard to gage when a reg slot will open. I have many friends who work there and they enjoy it, but I turned it down because I needed something that could offer me more than just one or two shows a week

[thetinymagic2]

Posted: 12/18/07 at 8:04pm

Jared is right. However, this is how it's done. You sub for awhile, show up on time, have a good attitude, and eventually you MIGHT get a steady spot. Also, after i month, approx. you have to join the union. You should apply to the union (Local 306 -345 West 45th ST)) in person, and also apply separately to Jujamcyn and Shubert Theater Orgs. Call the union, shubert and Jujamcyn EVERY day for sub work (several times throuought the day, and you're bound to get work (especially between now- Jan 7). Persistance, my friend. (also helps if you have friends) . You also can apply to The Vivian Beaumont, State Theatre, City Center. All union gigs.
For Nederlander theaters, visit each, individually and give your contact info to the Chief Usher.

[AKDPerformer]

Posted: 12/18/07 at 8:30pm

^ What they said haha. I worked there for months and I loved it.

As long as you keep in contact with them and they have some sub spots open..chances are you'll get hired.

[winston89]

Posted: 12/18/07 at 8:46pm

I mean what are the odds of me hearing back from them once I drop off my application? And how long after do i get a sub spot.

[AKDPerformer]

Posted: 12/18/07 at 9:02pm

Be very adamant. If you want any additional information PM me.

[clarkstallings]

Posted: 12/18/07 at 10:37pm

I applied to usher at the New Am. I dropped off my application, followed up with the head usher two weeks later and then got a call from the theatre manager a couple of weeks later. Unfortunately, my internship was ending and I wasn't going to be in the city much longer. It's an incredibly beautiful theatre and I would have loved to usher there just to admire the physical details of the space. My only complaint with the theatre has to do with some of the ushers. I expect the Disney ushers to have a bit more tact and guest patience. For example, I was sitting in the balcony at Poppins this past summer. I was sitting right by the doors to the Will Rogers Lounge and there is this station where an usher is positioned for what appears to be the duration of the show. Well, before the show and during intermission, the young lady positioned there kept sighing and and making disparaging remarks to herself and coworker about every guest they had to assist in getting a program, booster seat, or helping find seats. I realize that guests are dumb and guest service roles can be frustrating, but her actions, and the actions of some others at the New Am were over the top and not necessary. End of Rant.

[adamgreer]

Posted: 12/18/07 at 10:51pm

^^Interesting story, Clark. I am curious as to whether these ushers go through the same extensive training that Disney theme park employees go through when it comes to guest services. Are the ushers referred to as cast members? If there is one thing Disney does well, it is customer service.

[clarkstallings]

Posted: 12/18/07 at 11:20pm

I don't know what kind of training they receive. They're not referred to as cast members. Only Disney Parks employees receive that title. The thing that strikes me as odd, is I expect rude behavior from some of these ancient ushers at other theatres. At the New Am, the ushers are, on the whole, much younger. I guess I expect more youthful ushers to not be crotchety. I'm 22, have visited Walt Disney World over 40 times in my life because of that excellent guest service found there. Unfortunately, it doesn't extend to that theatre. When I paid for tickets at the box office, the guy helping me essentially said I was stupid for having "See ID" written on the signature space on my credit card. He said "Anyone can print up a fake ID these days."

[JoshuaEads]

Posted: 12/18/07 at 11:29pm

I spent over a year in that theatre ... beautiful place and a good group to work with. I know many of the ushers (and retailers, and crew, and actors, etc.) and they're all lovely people.

[CurtainPullDowner]

Posted: 12/18/07 at 11:44pm

Just be young and smile at Tommy Schumacher
It's easier that way

[papalovesmambo]

Posted: 12/19/07 at 7:42am

if they call you for an interview i have two words for you: assless chaps.