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Ensemble Theatre Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is the nation's premier Ensemble Theater with 49 members who are among the top actors, playwrights and directors in the field. Thrilling, powerful, groundbreaking ...

Bartender

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$17.32/hr

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is the nation's premier Ensemble Theater with 49 members who are among the top actors, playwrights and directors in the field. Thrilling, powerful, groundbreaking ...

Teaching Artist

Princeton, NJ ยท On-site

$25 - $75/hr

... ensemble collaboration. Ideal candidates have experience accompanying rehearsals, teaching music to children and adolescents, and supporting musical theatre instruction in classroom or rehearsal ...

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Ensemble Theatre information

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$33

$72

How much do ensemble theatre jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for ensemble theatre in the United States is $33.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $48.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Ensemble Theatre vs Actor?

AspectEnsemble TheatreActor
RoleCollaborative performer involved in theatre productions, often part of a group or companyIndividual performer portraying characters in various productions
CredentialsTypically formal training in theatre arts, acting, or related fieldsSimilar credentials, including acting training or experience
Work EnvironmentTheatre companies, rehearsal spaces, performance venuesStage, film sets, television studios
Industry UsageUsed to describe a collective or company involved in theatreRefers to the individual performer in productions

While an Ensemble Theatre refers to a theatre company or group working collaboratively, an Actor is an individual performer within or outside such groups. Both roles often require similar training and work in theatre environments, but the ensemble emphasizes group performance, whereas the actor focuses on individual roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Ensemble Theatre Actor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Ensemble Theatre Actor, you need strong acting skills, adaptability, collaboration experience, and often formal training in theatre arts. Familiarity with stagecraft tools, script analysis software, and sometimes union membership (such as Actors' Equity) are typical technical requirements. Exceptional teamwork, communication, and creative problem-solving are vital soft skills for this collaborative environment. These skills ensure seamless group performances, adaptability to diverse roles, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to a collective artistic vision.

What is an Ensemble Theatre?

An Ensemble Theatre is a type of theatre company or performance group in which all members work collaboratively, often sharing creative responsibilities such as acting, directing, and sometimes even writing. Rather than focusing on star performers, ensemble theatres emphasize teamwork and collective storytelling, with each member playing an equally important role in the production. This approach fosters a strong sense of unity and allows for innovative, dynamic performances that can adapt to the strengths of the group. Ensemble theatres may produce original works or reinterpret existing plays, often experimenting with new theatrical techniques.

How does working in an ensemble theatre company differ from traditional theatre roles, and what should applicants expect in terms of collaboration?

Working in an ensemble theatre company typically means being part of a close-knit group where collaboration is central to the creative process. Unlike traditional theatre roles, ensemble members often participate actively in devising, rehearsing, and sometimes writing or shaping the production, requiring adaptability and a willingness to contribute beyond a single character or function. Applicants should expect a highly interactive environment where communication, flexibility, and mutual support are key to success. Regular team meetings, shared creative decision-making, and sometimes rotating responsibilities are common, offering valuable experience but also demanding a strong commitment to group dynamics.
More about Ensemble Theatre jobs
What cities are hiring for Ensemble Theatre jobs? Cities with the most Ensemble Theatre job openings:
What states have the most Ensemble Theatre jobs? States with the most job openings for Ensemble Theatre jobs include:
Infographic showing various Ensemble Theatre job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,852 per year, or $33.1 per hour.
Barista and Food Handler

Barista and Food Handler

Steppenwolf Theatre Company

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$17.32/hr

Part-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

STEPPENWOLF THEATRE COMPANY
Steppenwolf Theatre Company is seeking candidates for the part-time position of Barista and Food Handler at Front Bar, Steppenwolf's cafรฉ and bar connected to the main theater at 1700 N Halsted. Open throughout the day for use by the general community, Front Bar is a warm neighborhood hub serving coffee and espresso by Dark Matter, pastries provided by West Town Bakery and food made in-house. The menu features fresh, accessible fare, with breakfast pastries, salads and sandwiches for lunch and shareable small plates and desserts for evening and post-show service
This position reports to the Food and Beverage Director.
Hours of employment range from 9AM to 4PM daily, with peak times in the morning and supporting matinee performances on the weekend.
Areas of Responsibility:
  • Prepare and serve quality food and beverages in a friendly and efficient manner
  • Provide adaptive service that is cognizant of theater operations
  • Maintain their station for cleanliness and sanitation and ensure the quality of all beverages
  • Educate themselves and guests about coffee, tea and food offerings
  • Engage our patrons as courteous, professional representatives of our company
  • Assist patrons with disabilities (which includes developing a proficiency in accessibility etiquette)
  • Coordinate with the box office and other departments to streamline service
  • Monitor and maintain public spaces for safety, cleanliness and presentation
  • Serve as knowledgeable sources of information about the theatre and city

Successful candidates will:
  • Possess an Illinois Food Handlers Card
  • Commit to an equitable work environment, including but not limited to use of gender inclusive language and support for individual gender expression, cultural sensitivity, racial equity and inter-generational collaboration and accessibility for audience members with disabilities
  • Have experience as a barista and/or server in a high-volume bar or restaurant
  • Enjoy proactively and positively interacting with a variety of personalities in a busy, fast-paced environment
  • Commit to presenting a relaxed appearance and tone when interacting with guests and colleagues, which includes maintaining an unhurried pace and level modulation of voice and volume
  • Demonstrate the consistent ability to effectively problem-solve in improvised situations

Desired Qualifications:
  • Be able to consistently work 15-25 hours a week, especially evenings and weekends
  • Possess excellent time-management skills
  • Be able to lift 40 pounds

Compensation:
Hourly rate is $17.32 per hour, plus tips. The Steppenwolf Theatre Food & Beverage is governed by a collective bargaining agreement with the IATSE Treasurers and Ticket Sellers Union Local 750.
How to apply:
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume and three references through the link provided.
NO PHONE CALLS OR EMAILS PLEASE
About Steppenwolf:
Steppenwolf Theatre Company is the nation's premier Ensemble Theater with 49 members who are among the top actors, playwrights and directors in the field. Thrilling, powerful, groundbreaking productions - from Balm in Gilead and Grapes of Wrath to August: Osage County, Downstate and The Brother/Sister Plays - have made this theatre legendary. Founded in 1976, Steppenwolf started as a group of teens performing in the basement of a church. Today, the company's artistic force remains rooted in the original vision of its founders: an artist-driven theatre, whose vitality is defined by its appetite for bold and innovative work. Every aspect of Steppenwolf is rooted in its Ensemble ethos, from the intergenerational artistic programming to the multi-genre performance series LookOut, to the nationally recognized work of Steppenwolf Education and Engagement which serves nearly 15,000 teens annually. While grounded in the Chicago community, more than 40 original Steppenwolf productions have enjoyed success nationally and internationally, including Broadway, Off-Broadway, London, Sydney, Galway and Dublin. Steppenwolf also holds accolades that include the National Medal of Arts, 12 Tony Awards, two Pulitzer Prize-winning commissions and more. Led by Artistic Directors Glenn Davis and Audrey Francis, Executive Director Brooke Flanagan and Board of Trustees Chair, Keating Crown - Steppenwolf continually redefines the landscape of acting and performance.
Steppenwolf Mission:
Steppenwolf strives to create thrilling, courageous and provocative art in a thoughtful and inclusive environment. We succeed when we disrupt your routine with experiences that spark curiosity, empathy and joy. We invite you to join our ensemble as we navigate, together, our complex world. steppenwolf.org, facebook.com/steppenwolftheatre, twitter.com/steppenwolfthtr and instagram.com/steppenwolfthtr.
Steppenwolf Core Values:
Equity + Inclusion
Integrity + Curiosity
Courage + Collaboration
Accountability + Leadership
Steppenwolf Theatre Company is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Steppenwolf complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.