Volunteer Opportunities
NSF Would Love For You To Join Us!
Volunteers are a huge part of what makes the Nashville Shakespeare Festival feel welcoming, accessible, and joyful. From greeting patrons to handing out programs to helping guests find their way, our volunteers help create a warm community atmosphere.
Whether you are a longtime theatre lover, a first-time volunteer, or part of a company, school, church, civic group, or friend group looking for a meaningful way to serve together, we would love to have you join us.
No theatre experience is required. Just bring a friendly attitude, comfortable shoes, and a willingness to help.
Volunteer at
Shakespeare in the Park
Our biggest volunteer need each year is Shakespeare in the Park, our summer production in Centennial Park. This year, we are thrilled to return to the Centennial Park Bandshell with A Midsummer Night’s Dream, running August 20 through September 20, 2026.
Each performance relies on a team of volunteers to help the evening run smoothly. Volunteers are often the first people our patrons meet, and your welcome helps set the tone for the whole night.
Volunteers may help with:
Greeting patrons as they arrive
Handing out programs
Answering basic questions about the evening
Assisting with parking
Helping guests find seating areas, restrooms, concessions, and information tables
Sharing information about donations in a friendly, no-pressure way
Supporting concessions or merchandise as needed
Assisting with light setup or cleanup
Helping patrons feel welcome, informed, and ready to enjoy the show
Volunteering as a Group
We love welcoming volunteer groups! Shakespeare in the Park is a great fit for workplace teams, schools, community groups, alumni groups, faith communities, friend groups, and families.
Most performances use around 10 volunteers, but we can usually work with groups that are a little larger or smaller. If you are interested in bringing a group, please email our Volunteer Coordinator with your preferred performance date and the approximate number of people who would like to volunteer.
Volunteer Orientation
We will host a volunteer orientation and pizza party on August 19. Attendance is encouraged, but not required.
Orientation is a great chance to meet the NSF team, learn more about what to expect, and ask questions before your volunteer shift. Volunteers will also be invited to the final dress rehearsal, which is always a fun way to see the production come together before opening night.
If you are interested, please email our Volunteer Coordinator Anita Reed to RSVP and learn more details.
Year-round volunteer opportunities
While Shakespeare in the Park is our largest volunteer need, NSF also uses volunteers throughout the year.
Additional opportunities may include:
Ushering for indoor productions
Helping with special events
Supporting education or community programs
Lending specific skills, such as carpentry, sewing, office support, or other hands-on help
If you have a skill you would like to share, we would love to hear from you.