Thank you for your interest in Friends of the Festival.
We are a large volunteer organization of approximately 175 members, united by our love of theatre and a shared mission to support the Stratford Festival.
Much of our volunteer work involves directly interacting with patrons. As Festival ambassadors, Friends welcome guests to performances, answer questions, offer directions and help ensure everyone feels comfortable and confident during their visit. You will find Friends at each of our theatre venues, working closely alongside Festival staff, including our Front of House and usher teams, to help create a warm and welcoming experience for every guest.
One of the wonderful parts of being a Friend is the opportunity to connect with our theatre-goers. You may share the excitement of someone attending the Festival for the first time, hear stories from a patron who remembers seeing a performance in the original tent, or chat with an enthusiastic group of students discovering live theatre.
Friends also support a variety of Festival events and activities throughout the season. Volunteers may greet and check in guests, provide directions and assistance at lectures, dance workshops, readings and other special events, and support our Backstage, Warehouse and Changeover Tours.
As Front of House-focused volunteers, we strive to provide exceptional patron service and work as part of the larger Festival team.
Access to a computer and email are mandatory requirements for membership. Strong organizational and interpersonal skills, along with a genuine love of theatre and working with people, are wonderful assets.
Friends create their own volunteer schedules, offering flexibility around work, travel and other commitments. Volunteer opportunities are available throughout the day and across the Festival season. Members are expected to complete a minimum of 50 volunteer hours during the season.
Interested in joining us for 2027?
Applications for the 2027 Friends of the Festival season must be received by January 1, 2027.
Prospective members take part in an interview early in the year, and successful applicants receive training before the Festival season begins.
If you're interested in becoming a Friend of the Festival, please reach out to Friends@stratfordfestival.ca.
We look forward to welcoming new Friends each year and sharing our love of the Stratford Festival with you.