Join Our Volunteer Cast
Be part of something bigger than a performance. As a Second Act Theater volunteer, you'll share the stage with senior residents, build real relationships, and discover the power of intergenerational connection.
What You'll Do
You won't just be performing for seniors—you'll be performing alongside them. Here are the roles our volunteers fill:
Vocal Coach
Help residents learn melodies, breathing techniques, and vocal expression. No formal training required—just enthusiasm and patience.
Scene Partner
Perform alongside residents in duets, ensemble numbers, and scripted scenes. You're not performing for them—you're performing with them.
Choreography Assistant
Design and teach simplified choreography that emphasizes upper-body movement and seated participation options.
Stage Manager
Coordinate rehearsals, manage props and set pieces, and keep the production running smoothly behind the scenes.
Accompanist
If you play piano or another instrument, provide live musical accompaniment for rehearsals and performances.
Tech Crew
Handle sound equipment, lighting, and video recording for performances. Great for students who love theater but prefer backstage.
What You'll Gain
Community Service Hours
All volunteer hours are logged and verified for school requirements and community service programs.
Volunteer Letters
We help facilitate volunteer letters from our partner retirement communities to support your college applications and service records.
Performance Experience
Gain real-world performance opportunities beyond school productions in a supportive, low-pressure environment.
Leadership & Empathy Skills
Develop patience, communication, and leadership skills through meaningful relationships with older adults.
Training & Expectations
Mandatory Orientation
Before your first session, you'll complete an orientation covering:
- •Sensitivity training for working with older adults, including those with cognitive impairment or mobility challenges
- •Communication best practices: patience, volume, eye contact, and respectful physical interaction
- •Facility safety protocols, emergency procedures, and HIPAA awareness
- •Background check requirements
Ongoing Mentorship
You'll receive ongoing support and mentorship from Second Act Theater staff throughout your entire program cycle. After each session, student volunteers meet for a brief debrief—a chance to reflect, ask questions, and grow as a team.
How to Get Started
Reach Out
Contact us to express your interest. Tell us about yourself and what excites you about the program.
Attend Orientation
Complete our training session to learn the skills and protocols you need to make a meaningful impact.
Join Your Cast
Get matched to a partner facility and start building relationships that will last far beyond the final bow.
Students under 18 will need parental consent to participate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a good singer or actor?
Not at all! We welcome students with all levels of experience. Whether you love performing, prefer working behind the scenes, or just want to make a difference, there's a role for you. We provide all the training you need.
How much time does it take each week?
Weekly sessions run 60–90 minutes. You'll also attend a brief orientation before your first season and occasional extra rehearsals before performance day. Most volunteers commit to one session per week.
What grade do I need to be in?
We accept high school juniors and seniors (11th and 12th grade). In some cases, mature sophomores may be accepted with a parent recommendation.
How long is a season commitment?
Program seasons range from 6 to 16 weeks depending on the tier. Most first-time volunteers start with our 6–8 week Revues & Cabarets program.
Is transportation provided?
Transportation is the responsibility of the volunteer and their family. We work to partner with facilities that are accessible to the communities they serve.
Do I need a background check?
Yes. All volunteers complete background checks as required by our partner facilities and school districts. We guide you through the process—it's quick and straightforward.
Can I count this toward National Honor Society hours?
Absolutely. Many of our volunteers use their hours for NHS, school community service requirements, and college application portfolios.