To teach and interpret 18th century history and culture in a fun and immersive way to diverse audiences using a variety of performance techniques and educational themes; to provide exceptional guest experiences.

Work To Be Performed:

• Demonstrate ability to perform 18th century dance (gained with experience at Colonial Williamsburg or another history museum or historic site) and/or experience with Colonial American dance forms
• Interpreting, participating in, and supporting a variety of seasonal and special events
• Engaging in program preparation, rehearsal, public performance and/or interpretation as assigned
• Ability to read and assimilate information; ability to gather information through research, study, and training.
• Ability to gain command of teaching basic country dances for audience participation purposes.
• Must perform job duties while wearing appropriate period clothing.
• Must handle multiple priorities and make decisions within established guidelines.
• Successfully performing the work assignment as prepared by Programmatic Personnel in accordance with the approved standards for any particular presentation and site. The employee will not alter, or cause to be altered, the approved set up arrangement including blocking, scripting, and general program direction.

Provide exceptional customer service by:

• Modeling the organizational values of stewardship, customer service, hospitality and respect for people
• Managing guest/employee service
• Orienting visitors
• Maintaining a caring attitude guided by integrity, truthfulness, fairness, courtesy and respect for the individual

Work collaboratively to achieve the mission of Colonial Williamsburg by:

• Modeling the organization’s personal/professional expectations
• Participating as an active member of a team

Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Competencies usually acquired through completion of 4 years of college or 2-4 years’ experience in storytelling, character interpretation, theatre, music, dance, or related field, OR any combination of education and experience that fulfill the responsibilities of the job AND completion of established Foundation, Division, and Department training requirements.
• General knowledge of Colonial Williamsburg Foundation policies and procedures; familiarity with physical layout of Historic Area and interior of exhibition buildings.
• Interviews, clearings and or auditions are required for some positions.
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule including weeknights, holidays, and weekends. Must be able to provide annual availability that includes a minimum of 2 evenings per week on a regular basis and up to 4 evenings per week during periods of peak demand, when required.
• Must have good overall attendance, work ethic, and attitude to work as part of a team.
• Physical requirements include, but are not limited to: (1) climbing stairs (exhibition sites); (2) lifting up to 25 pounds unassisted; (3) standing for up to 3 hours at a time; (4) working in all types of weather including rain, snow, wind, heat/cold, humidity and storms, and coming in daily contact with allergens including pollen, mold and dust.

HIGHLY DESIRED:

• Performance experience in English or Scottish Country Dance or preferably two of the following dance forms; ballet, contra, folk, social ballroom, and modern/theatrical.
• Knowledge of the history of Virginia and Williamsburg learned from Colonial Williamsburg training programs, publications, or other sources is a plus.