Community involvement is one of the company’s most important and cherished traditions. Over 100 volunteers are actively engaged in diverse aspects of each production, including set construction, costumes, make-up, properties, and more. The all-volunteer West Bay Opera Chorus is composed of talented Bay Area singers who enjoy the opportunity to participate in significant artistic endeavors.
Volunteers also play an important role in assisting West Bay Opera with various fundraising activities such as special events, mailings, and phonathons. A support organization, the West Bay Opera Guild, provides ushers, ticket takers, and concessions for the performances. Prior to the opening of each opera, the Guild holds a Preview at which the conductor and principal singers discuss and perform highlights from the forthcoming opera. The Villagers (volunteers from the WBO chorus and orchestra) organize a Halloween Costume Rental each year to raise funds for the company.
We have many opportunities for you to work with our production staff as a volunteer. Whether you used to work in theater or opera, enjoyed the stage in college, or have always wanted to see what "backstage" is all about, we encourage you to try it at West Bay Opera. Our backstage volunteer culture is legendary.
You could help build or paint sets or costumes, or give us a hand when we move the production into the theatre. You might also work backstage during the run of the show, dealing with props, lights, costumes, make-up, or perhaps working on the set crew. No matter what the assignment, you will work alongside top-notch professionals and experienced volunteers, learn a lot in the process, and become part of the the West Bay Opera family. And, whatever you helped build, prepare or set up, you'll be thrilled to see it onstage when the curtain finally goes up!
If you are interested in giving it a try, please contact Michele Sullivan, West Bay Opera Production Manager, by phone (650-843-3900 x222) or email (Michele@WBOpera.org).
The West Bay Opera Guild, a volunteer community organization, provides ushers, ticket takers, and concessions for performances. Guild volunteers also assist with costume rental and other fundraising activities. Opera Guild members have the privilege of attending free dress rehearsals, general meetings with dynamic guest speakers or entertainers, the Opening Night Cast Party, and Holiday, Year-End and Overture parties. For more information, please visit the WBO Guild Page.