The past five years have seen a resurgence of the arts on the Northside. The Workhouse Theater has been working to build a permanent resident company that both resides and produces quality live theatre in Camden. They have seen great success, partly as a result of the hard work of many talented artists who brought their talents into the neighborhood, but also because of the hard, behind-the-scenes work of a few very committed individuals.
In its fifth year of existence Workhouse Theatre is looking to bring new neighborhood residents into the fold to support its growth and development. "We are in a transitional year as we re-evaluate where we have come from and where we would like to be," says Workhouse founder and Artistic Director, Jeff Redman.
"We realize that to maintain the production schedule and the quality that our audience expects, we need to bring more people on board. Producing theater takes effort and at this point in our growth we need to find Northsiders who have an interest in helping better their neighborhood and community, and who have a passion for the arts."
Workhouse Theatre is looking to fill a few very specific volunteer roles that it considers key to its ability to fulfill its long-term mission of keeping a live theatre presence on the Northside. The first is a marketing and PR manager, considered crucial in getting the word out to the community. An individual in this role would ultimately shape the image and perception of not only the theatre company itself, but of the Northside.
Beyond its visibility, a small theatre company needs a vibrant and engaged community of volunteers to do everything from ushering, to building sets, to hanging posters. To that end, the company is seeking a volunteer coordinator to make sure that those willing to volunteer are put in a position to succeed, and are shown the gratitude they deserve.
And finally, the company recognizes that its continued growth and success depends on finding new and creative ways to raise money and fund new initiatives. Workhouse Theatre is a non-profit organization and relies on donations, sponsorships and other funding sources to maintain a budget in line with high quality theater. A fundraising and account manager would generate new and creative ways to raise funds, oversee season sponsor relations and make sure they are shown appreciation for their own efforts in keeping Camden-based theatre alive and well.
These volunteer positions will not only help maintain award-winning theater on the Northside, but will add value to the growing Camden neighborhoods. Specific theater experience is not required to fulfill the role, but an individual possessing experience in one of the areas or even just a desire become involved with an arts organization dedicated to the Northside will go a long way.
Over the past five years, Workhouse Theatre Company has entertained thousands, bringing both audience and artists into the neighborhood, individuals who may otherwise have never had the opportunity to experience the dynamic community that is Camden. This is an opportunity to give back to an organization that has given much. Says Redman, "There are many ways to get involved with your neighborhood and community. I think theater and the arts just happen to be the most exciting." Contact Mark Webb at 4400 Osseo Rd, Minneapolis, 55412 or mark@workhousetheatre.org.