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Freelance Performing Arts Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... freelance technicians to ensure efficient and safe event execution. * Administration & Logistics: Manage the Fine Arts master schedule for the Performing Arts Center (PAC), maintain accurate ...

Production Manager

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

... and performing arts, media, and civic action. For over forty years, BRIC has shaped Brooklyn ... Train and mentor freelance staff through load-ins, tech rehearsals, performances, and strikes

Production Manager

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

... and performing arts, media, and civic action. For over forty years, BRIC has shaped Brooklyn ... Train and mentor freelance staff through load-ins, tech rehearsals, performances, and strikes

... and performing arts, media, and civic action. For over forty years, BRIC has shaped Brooklyn ... Train and mentor freelance staff through load-ins, tech rehearsals, performances, and strikes

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Freelance Performing Arts information

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$14

$47

$132

How much do freelance performing arts jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance performing arts in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance performing arts professional?

Freelance performing arts professionals are individuals who work independently, rather than as permanent employees, in various areas of the performing arts such as acting, dancing, singing, stage management, or technical support. They are typically hired on a project-by-project basis by theaters, production companies, event organizers, or other clients. Freelancers in this field often juggle multiple gigs, build their own schedules, and are responsible for their own promotion and business operations. This career path offers creative freedom and flexibility, but also requires strong networking and self-management skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance performing artist?

To thrive as a Freelance Performing Artist, you need strong performance abilities, creative versatility, and a solid foundation in your chosen discipline, often supported by formal training or a degree in the arts. Familiarity with audition platforms, self-recording equipment, and digital marketing tools is beneficial for securing gigs and promoting your work. Exceptional self-motivation, time management, and networking skills help you stand out and build a sustainable freelance career. These competencies are crucial for consistently finding opportunities, delivering high-quality performances, and adapting to the dynamic demands of the performing arts industry.

What are some common challenges freelance performing artists face and how can they overcome them?

Freelance performing artists often encounter challenges such as inconsistent income, scheduling unpredictability, and the need for constant self-promotion. Building a strong professional network and maintaining an up-to-date portfolio can help secure more opportunities. Many freelancers also diversify their skills by teaching or taking on related creative projects to ensure a steadier workflow. Staying organized with finances and contracts is essential, as is being proactive in seeking feedback and training to remain competitive in the industry.

What is the difference between Freelance Performing Arts vs Freelance Acting?

AspectFreelance Performing ArtsFreelance Acting
CredentialsVaries by discipline; often includes specialized training or certifications in dance, music, or theaterTypically requires acting training, workshops, or acting certifications
Work EnvironmentPerformances at theaters, events, festivals, or private functionsAuditions, rehearsals, filming, or live stage performances
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across arts, entertainment, and event industries for diverse performance rolesPrimarily in theater, film, TV, and commercial productions

Freelance Performing Arts encompasses a broad range of performance disciplines, including dance, music, and theater, often requiring specialized skills and certifications. Freelance Acting is a subset focused specifically on acting roles in theater, film, and TV. While both involve live or recorded performances, Freelance Performing Arts offers more variety in performance types, whereas Freelance Acting centers on acting skills and roles.

More about Freelance Performing Arts jobs

What cities are hiring for Freelance Performing Arts jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Performing Arts job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Performing Arts jobs?

The most popular types of Performing Arts jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Performing Arts jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Performing Arts jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Performing Arts jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Performing Arts jobs are:

Infographic showing various Freelance Performing Arts job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Runner, Texas Performing Arts

University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX • On-site

$30/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


University Of Texas at Austin rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

126th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Posting Title:

Runner, Texas Performing Arts

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Hiring Department:

Texas Performing Arts

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Position Open To:

All Applicants

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Weekly Scheduled Hours:

19

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FLSA Status:

To Be Determined at Offer

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Earliest Start Date:

Ongoing

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Position Duration:

Expected to Continue

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Location:

UT MAIN CAMPUS

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Job Details:

General NotesAbout Texas Performing Arts:

Texas Performing Arts at the University of Texas at Austin (TPA) is the nation's largest and most active university-based performing arts center by annual attendance, budget, and number of events. Both an anchor institution in Austin's arts landscape and a nationally significant presenter, TPA operates venues on the University of Texas at Austin campus including Austin's largest theater, Bass Concert Hall. Its presenting includes Broadway in Austin; an international season of dance, theater, and music; and the Texas Welcomes series of national touring artists. Education is at the core of TPA's programs, which serve more than 30,000 K-12 students and the 55,000 students of UT Austin. http://texasperformingarts.org/

Purpose:

We are seeking experienced, reliable Runners to support live events and touring productions on an as-needed basis for Texas Performing Arts. This role is critical to maintaining seamless operations-supporting artist services, executing time-sensitive runs, and representing the organization with professionalism.

This position is best suited for freelancers and industry professionals who are comfortable in fast-paced, high-expectation environments.

Responsibilities:
  • Execute timely and efficient runs for production and hospitality needs

  • Transport items such as food, supplies, and equipment with care and accuracy

  • Handle purchases using cash and/or credit card with full accountability

  • Maintain clear, proactive communication with TPA Event Managers and Client production teams

  • Potentially provide occasional transportation for clients, artists, or staff (advance notice provided when possible)

  • Uphold a high standard of professionalism, discretion, and hospitality

Required Qualifications:
  • Must be 21 years of age or older

  • Valid Texas Driver's License

  • Personal vehicle

  • Up-to-date vehicle registration and insurance

  • Reliable, road-ready vehicle with a clean interior

  • Strong knowledge of Austin and surrounding areas

  • Punctual, efficient, and able to work independently

  • Comfortable handling money (cash and credit transactions)

  • Vehicles must be clean, well-maintained, and free of smoke or strong odors

  • Ability to adapt quickly in a fast-paced, live-event environment

  • Strong sense of responsibility and discretion when working with clients and artists

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prior experience in live events, touring, hospitality, or production support

  • Experience driving clients or talent in a professional setting

Hourly Rate:
  • $350 flat rate for up to 12-hour shift

  • Overtime: $30/hour after 12 hours (calculated in half-hour increments)

  • Mileage: Additional compensation for runs exceeding a 15-mile radius of Bass Concert Hall

Working Conditions:
  • This position is based in Austin, Texas and requires residence in the greater Austin area

  • Work in and around theatrical performance environment

  • Walking/driving to multiple buildings on campus

  • Use of manual dexterity

  • Climbing stairs and ladders

  • Ability to stand/walk for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs

  • Runners may be required to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) depending on the event or client

  • All information related to productions, artists, clients, and operations must be treated as strictly confidential

  • No social media posting (including photos, videos, or location tagging) while on shift or in backstage/production areas

  • Personal phone use should be limited to work-related communication while on duty

  • Discretion and respect for privacy are expected at all times

Work Shift:
  • Work shift is as scheduled and needed

Required Materials:
  • Cover letter detailing interest in and qualifications for this specific opportunity

  • Resume/CV

  • 3 professional references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor

Important for applicants who are NOT current university employees or contingent workers: You will be prompted to submit your resume the first time you apply, then you will be provided an option to upload a new Resume for subsequent applications. Any additional Required Materials (letter of interest, references, etc.) will be uploaded in the Application Questions section; you will be able to multi-select additional files. Before submitting your online job application, ensure that ALL Required Materials have been uploaded. Once your job application has been submitted, you cannot make changes.

Important for Current university employees and contingent workers: As a current university employee or contingent worker, you MUST apply within Workday by searching for Find UT Jobs. If you are a current University employee, log-in to Workday, navigate to your Worker Profile, click the Career link in the left-hand navigation menu and then update the sections in your Professional Profile before you apply. This information will be pulled in to your application. The application is one page and you will be prompted to upload your resume. In addition, you must respond to the application questions presented to upload any additional Required Materials (letter of interest, references, etc.) that were noted above.

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Employment Eligibility:

Regular staff who have been employed in their current position for the last six continuous months are eligible for openings being recruited for through University-Wide or Open Recruiting, to include both promotional opportunities and lateral transfers. Staff who are promotion/transfer eligible may apply for positions without supervisor approval.

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Retirement Plan Eligibility:

The retirement plan for this position is Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), subject to the position being at least 20 hours per week and at least 135 days in length.

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Background Checks:

A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position.

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Equal Opportunity Employer:

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer,complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

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Pay Transparency:

The University of Texas at Austin will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information.

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Employment Eligibility Verification:

If hired, you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I-9 form. You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States. Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment. Failure to do so will result in loss of employment at the university.

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E-Verify:

The University of Texas at Austin use E-Verify to check the work authorization of all new hires effective May 2015. The university's company ID number for purposes of E-Verify is 854197. For more information about E-Verify, please see the following:

  • E-Verify Poster (English and Spanish) [PDF]
  • Right to Work Poster (English) [PDF]
  • Right to Work Poster (Spanish) [PDF]

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Compliance:

Employees may be required to report violations of law under Title IX and the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act). If this position is identified a Campus Security Authority (Clery Act), you will be notified and provided resources for reporting. Responsible employees under Title IX are defined and outlined in HOP-3031.

The Clery Act requires all prospective employees be notified of the availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety report. You may access the most recent report here or obtain a copy at University Compliance Services, 1616 Guadalupe Street, UTA 2.206, Austin, Texas 78701.


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