At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide top-notch customer service and assist patrons at The Old Vic theatre.
- Company: Join the iconic Old Vic, a hub of creativity and culture.
- Benefits: Earn £14.80 per hour, enjoy free therapy, and access discounts.
- Other info: Flexible shifts, great team spirit, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting theatre experience and enhance your skills.
- Qualifications: Customer service experience in a theatre or similar venue is essential.
The predicted salary is between 14.8 - 14.8 £ per hour.
We are looking for Front of House Assistants to provide a high quality experience for patrons of The Old Vic. A full job description can be found below.
Salary: £14.80 per hour
Terms
We are looking for Front of House staff who are available to work a set rota for the length of the run of How The Other Half Loves. These are fixed term contracts which will be due to end 19 September 2026, with a possibility of extension. You will be invited to Induction Training and a Front of House Training sessions ahead of your first shift, so all applicants will need to be available from w/c 20 July 2026.
The key terms of Fixed Term contract are:
- On an average performance week we run 8 performances per week (Monday - Saturday evenings, and Matinees on Wednesday and Saturday).
- You will work as per an agreed rota, between Monday and Saturday which will be agreed in advance.
- You may work in either Bar or Usher roles as part of working as a FOH Assistant.
- You may be able to pick up additional shifts as overtime.
- You will be paid in arrears, on a monthly basis.
What’s great about working at The Old Vic?
- Access to interest free travel schemes including Cycle 2 work and Season Ticket loans after your probation period
- Free therapy from our therapy partner SelfSpace
- Mental health support via our in house Mental Health Champions
- Two complimentary tickets to a preview performance per production
- Pension scheme with The People’s Pension
- Enhanced sick pay
- All staff social events
- Staff discount in The Old Vic bars as well as discounts in local bars and restaurants
- Opportunities to get involved working groups such as the Inclusion Working Group and Sustainability Working Group
- Commitment to learning, education and development
The job
Assistants must have full knowledge of the House evacuation procedures and perform all duties to a high standard of customer care in attitude, approach and appearance.
Areas of responsibility
- Working as part of the Front of House team (Bar and Usher)
- Welcoming patrons in a polite and enthusiastic manner
- Providing patrons with accurate information, correct directions and effective assistance and help, as required in all parts of the House
- Assisting customers with access requirements
- Contributing to the health and safety of our customers by playing an active role in emergency evacuation procedures where necessary
- Sales reconciliation
- Assisting with events, specific access performances or other responsibilities (show specific) as required
- Maintaining a customer friendly and safe environment in which the public can enjoy the performances
- Contributing to the delivery of a great audience experience by providing outstanding service, enhancing our reputation
This is not an exhaustive list of duties and the Theatre's management may, at any time, allocate other tasks which are of a similar nature or level.
Person Specification
Essential
- Previous experience of working in a theatre or similar venue in a customer facing role (bartending and/or usher).
- A proven ability to provide a high level of customer service at all times.
- A proven ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
- Able to demonstrate proactivity and initiative.
- Ability to adapt to changing priorities and demands.
- Availability to work evenings, matinees and/or weekends.
How to apply
Sending a short video file of yourself (no longer than two minutes in length), detailing your experience, why you are applying for the role and what about working at The Old Vic interests you. Sending a short audio file of yourself (no longer than two minutes in length), detailing your experience, why you are applying for the role and what about working at The Old Vic interests you. Completing our application form. Uploading your CV and covering letter, explaining why you are interested in the role and working at the Old Vic.
As a Disability Confident employer, The Old Vic has made a commitment that all applicants with disabilities who meet the essential criteria for this job will be invited to interview. However in the event that we have a high volume of applications all of whom meet the criteria and identify as disabled, meaning it is not practicable to interview everyone, we may apply a weighting to the shortlisting criteria, or add an additional shortlisting stage before any interviews take place. In all cases we will take care to ensure that any criteria or weightings do not disadvantage disabled applicants. All appointments are made subject to satisfactory references and proof of eligibility to work in the UK.
The Process
The recruitment process for this role will one stage, with interviews to be scheduled in w/c 6 July 2026. The closing date for this role is 29 June 2026 at 11.59pm. We reserve the right to close this role ahead of time if we receive a high number of applications.
Equal Opportunities
We actively support and encourage people from a variety of backgrounds, experiences and skill sets to join us and help shape what we do. We are particularly keen to receive applications from people of the global majority, LGBTQ+, neurodiverse and disabled candidates. We may take positive action, in cases where candidates are equally qualified, to increase the employment of under-represented groups at The Old Vic. In the event that we ask you to attend the theatre for a conversation and you are struggling financially, we may be able to reimburse you for any reasonable travel costs.
FOH Assistant - How The Other Half Loves (FTC) employer: Old Vic Theatre
The Old Vic is an exceptional employer, offering Front of House Assistants a vibrant work culture that prioritises employee well-being and development. With benefits such as free therapy, enhanced sick pay, and opportunities for involvement in working groups, staff can thrive both personally and professionally while contributing to a renowned theatre experience in the heart of London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land FOH Assistant - How The Other Half Loves (FTC)
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Walk-Ins
In the hospitality and food service game, a personal touch goes a long way. Instead of waiting for listings, why not walk into local restaurants, cafes, or hotels? Bring your best smile and a CV, and show them that you're eager to join their team right on the spot!
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✨Utilise Your Network in the Industry
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We think you need these skills to ace FOH Assistant - How The Other Half Loves (FTC)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality-food-service game, your ability to connect with customers is key. Make sure to highlight any relevant experience in your CV, like working in cafes or restaurants, and emphasise your skills in teamwork and communication. Don't forget to mention any customer service training or certifications you've got under your belt!
Flexibility is Your Best Friend:Since this is a temporary role, you'll want to showcase your flexibility in your application. In your cover letter, mention your availability and willingness to work various shifts, including weekends or holidays. Employers love knowing they can rely on you during busy periods!
Bring Your Personality to the Front:In hospitality, it's not just about what you can do; it's about who you are! Let your personality shine through in your cover letter. A warm, engaging tone can really make your application stand out and show your potential to create a welcoming atmosphere for customers.
Include Relevant References:References can make a huge difference in the hospitality-field. Consider including a couple of references from previous employers or colleagues in your CV who can vouch for your customer service skills and ability to thrive in fast-paced environments. This adds credibility and elevates your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Old Vic Theatre
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
In the hospitality-food-service sector, it's all about the customer experience. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've gone above and beyond for a customer or handled a difficult situation. They’ll appreciate knowing that you can keep your cool and maintain a positive attitude even when things get a bit hectic!
✨Know Your Menu Inside and Out
Whether you're applying for a temporary role as a server or in the kitchen, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the menu and any signature dishes they serve at Old Vic Theatre. During the interview, they might ask about your food and drink recommendations, so having a few tasty suggestions up your sleeve will show you're genuinely interested in contributing to the team.
✨Emphasise Your Flexibility
Temporary roles often require a bit of juggling with shifts and responsibilities. Be sure to convey your willingness to adapt and take on different roles as needed. Share instances where you’ve quickly switched tasks or taken the initiative to help out your colleagues, showing that you're a team player.
✨Dress the Part and Exude Personality
In hospitality, first impressions matter! Even for a temporary position, donning smart-casual attire can set the right tone. Plus, don't hold back on your personality – let your enthusiasm shine through, as they’re looking for someone who can mesh well with the team and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
