How to Be Circus Usher - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Oct 11, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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Circus ushers are important members of a circus performance. They are responsible for ensuring that guests have a safe and enjoyable experience. By providing seating, ushering people to their seats and answering questions, they help create a pleasant atmosphere which contributes to the overall enjoyment of the show.

Furthermore, circus ushers work to maintain order and safety. They monitor crowd control and intervene when necessary to prevent potential problems. As a result, circus ushers help to ensure that the performers can focus on the show and that the audience can enjoy the performance without disruption.

Steps How to Become

Research the circus industry and find out what type of ushers are typically hired by circuses. Become familiar with the types of duties and responsibilities associated with the job.
Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Many circuses may require a minimum educational or work experience level in order to be considered for a position as a circus usher.
Take on a job as an usher at a local theater or other event venue. This will provide you with the experience needed to land a job as a circus usher.
Contact circuses in your area and inquire about job openings for ushers. Inquire about their hiring process and requirements for the job.
Apply for a position as a circus usher. Complete an application and submit it to the circus.
Participate in an interview, if necessary. Be prepared to answer questions about your experience, availability and customer service skills.
Follow up with the circus after the interview, if necessary. Let them know that you are still interested in the position and inquire about the status of your application.
Accept the job offer, if one is extended to you. Congratulations! You are now a circus usher!
Attend any required training sessions or orientation meetings before starting your new job.
Dress appropriately for your job as a circus usher. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes that are appropriate for the type of environment you will be working in.

When looking for a reliable and qualified circus usher, there are a few key factors to consider. First, it is important to look for someone with experience in customer service, as this will ensure that they can handle a wide variety of customers and provide quality service. it is important to seek out someone who is familiar with the circus setting and can anticipate the needs of guests.

Furthermore, it is essential to look for someone who is not only friendly and outgoing, but also able to remain calm and professional in stressful situations. Finally, it is beneficial to find someone who can adhere to the safety protocols set by the circus, thus protecting guests and employees alike. When all these factors are taken into consideration, it becomes much easier to find a reliable and qualified circus usher.

You may want to check Circus Juggler, Circus Contortionist, and Circus Stilt Walker for alternative.

Job Description

Greet guests and provide assistance in seating guests
Monitor circulation of guests in the tent
Collect tickets and ensure valid entry
Respond to inquiries or requests from guests
Ensure a safe and secure environment
Assist with crowd control
Assist with any unexpected events or emergencies
Manage concessions and souvenir stands
Assist with cleaning up after the show ends
Assist performers with costume and equipment setup before the show

Skills and Competencies to Have

Excellent customer service skills
Ability to multitask and prioritize efficiently
Ability to remain calm and collected in a fast-paced environment
Ability to use cash register or other payment systems
Ability to answer customer questions and provide information
Knowledge of circus performances and show times
Excellent communication skills
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends
Ability to stand for long periods of time
Ability to lift and carry heavy objects

Being an effective circus usher requires a wide range of skills and abilities. A key skill is customer service, as ushers are often one of the first people patrons interact with when they enter the circus. Ushers should be friendly and welcoming, as this sets the tone for the rest of the patrons' experience.

ushers should be able to handle any questions or concerns patrons may have in a prompt and professional manner. It is also important that ushers are able to remain calm and collected during busy periods, as well as during emergency situations. Finally, being organized and able to multitask is essential, as ushers are in charge of ensuring that lines move quickly and efficiently.

When all of these skills are used together, it allows ushers to provide an enjoyable experience for patrons and make the circus run smoothly.

Circus Elephant Handler, Circus Concession Worker, and Circus Barker are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working in customer service?
What do you think makes a great circus usher?
Describe a time when you had to handle a difficult customer or situation.
How do you stay organized when managing multiple tasks?
How do you handle working long hours on your feet?
What would you do if a customer asked for a refund?
How do you handle large crowds of people?
What safety protocols do you follow when ushering people to their seats?
How do you keep customers informed of any changes to the show schedule?
How do you handle any disputes between customers?

Common Tools in Industry

Flashlight. A tool used to provide illumination in dark places. (eg: Checking a fuse box in the dark. )
Ticket Taker. A tool used to scan tickets or allow access to events. (eg: Checking tickets at a circus entrance. )
Radio/Walkie Talkie. A tool used to communicate with others in a large area. (eg: Calling other ushers for help. )
Broom and Dustpan. A tool used to sweep up debris or dirt. (eg: Cleaning up after an animal act. )
First Aid Kit. A tool used to provide emergency medical aid. (eg: Treating injuries from accidents during performances. )

Professional Organizations to Know

International Association of Circus Arts (IACA)
Circus Arts and Entertainment Association (CAEA)
International Circus Festival Network (ICFN)
Professional Unicyclists Association (PUA)
European Juggling Association (EJA)
United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT)
International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA)
International Association of Theatrical and Stage Employees (IATSE)
American Federation of Musicians (AFM)
American Guild of Variety Artists (AGVA)

We also have Circus Security Guard, Circus Sound Technician, and Circus Costume Designer jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Ticket Taker. A person who takes tickets from patrons entering a show or event.
Concession Stand Operator. A person who operates a stand that sells food, drinks, and other items at a circus or other event.
Usher. A person who guides and assists patrons to their seats in a theater, arena, or other venue.
Crowd Control. The process of managing the flow of people in a public space, such as a circus.
Ticket Booth. A booth that sells tickets for admission to events or attractions.
Safety Procedures. Procedures followed to ensure the safety of patrons and employees at a circus or other event.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Circus Usher do?

A Circus Usher is responsible for welcoming guests, taking tickets, seating guests, and ensuring a safe environment during circus performances.

What qualifications are needed to be a Circus Usher?

To be a Circus Usher, you must have excellent customer service skills and the ability to stay calm and professional in a fast-paced environment. You may also need to be physically fit, as some tasks may require standing for long periods of time.