Performer, Theatrical Visitor Engagement at The Calgary Zoo

Calgary, Alberta, Canada -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

18 Jun, 26

Salary

0.0

Posted On

20 Mar, 26

Experience

0 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Theatrical Performance, Visitor Engagement, Puppeteering, Singing, Storytelling, Improvisation, Movement, Collaboration, Customer Service, Musical Instrument Playing, Character Interaction, Conservation Education, Teamwork, Adaptability, Professionalism, Stilt Walking

Industry

Non-profit Organizations

Description

Join our team at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo and share your flare for the arts and passion for conservation with audiences of all ages! The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is seeking seasonal Performers, Theatrical Visitor Engagement who will be responsible for designing and delivering memorable theatrical experiences at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo that inspire curiosity about wildlife conservation and encourage conservation action with our visitors. The position of Performer, Theatrical Visitor Engagement is part of a team of multi-skilled performers who create and perform a variety of performance activities such as costume & puppet parades, conservation song concerts, roving interactions with visitors, and scripted storytelling. Our Purpose | We act for wildlife; saving species and inspiring people to join us. Our Core Values | Drive impact, nurture connection, cultivate hope, and be bold. Contract: * Start Date: May 2026 * End Date: September 2026 What you will do: * Collaborate with the team, as directed by the Coordinator, Theatrical Visitor Engagement, to create conservation-focused, theatrical experiences for zoo visitors. These include daily parades featuring puppets and costumed characters, performing songs, scripted performances, and hosting interactive activities. * Develop an understanding of the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo’s animals, attractions, amenities, and conservation efforts, and act as an information resource and guide for our guests * Participate in performance activities using your unique skills. Specific duties include puppeteering, singing, playing a musical instrument, stilt walking*, storytelling, character interaction, improvisation, and movement. (*Stilt training will be provided and is not a required activity for all members of the team) * Animate puppets of various sizes and styles * Participate in the trial and improvement of theatrical repertoire and engagements * Work collaboratively with all members of the Theatrical Engagement Team, and other Visitor Engagement staff, hosts and volunteers * Perform all duties in a professional manner according to zoo policies and guidelines * Act as an ambassador for the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo to share and expand our mission to take and inspire action to sustain wildlife and wild places. * Maintain a safe environment for animals, visitors, and zoo staff What you will bring: * A college diploma in the Performing Arts is an Asset * At least 1-year demonstrated experience in the performing arts is preferred * At least 1 year in customer service is an asset * Experience and/or comfort singing as part of a group is required. Formal vocal training is not a prerequisite * A strong ability to collaborate with others in a high-energy and dynamic environment. Successful candidates will enjoy working as part of a close team * The ability to play a musical instrument is an asset, particularly portable acoustic instruments such as guitar, ukelele, violin, hand drums etc. * Experience devising and/or writing original theatrical material such as songs, scenes and stories is an asset * Stilt walking will be required for some team members. Training will be provided. * A love of wildlife and conversation * Commitment to excellent customer service to ensure visitors have a positive and memorable experience * A high level of curiosity, empathy and the desire to learn new skills Working Conditions: * The role requires moving throughout outdoor and indoor areas of the attraction, including varied terrain, and staying active for extended periods as part of daily duties and supporting guest engagement * Some heavy lifting is required (15-20kg) including carrying props/puppets, pulling and pushing of wagons on various terrains, and setting up/striking audio equipment * Outdoor work in various weather conditions and temperatures including high heat, cold, rain, wind and smoke. * Work environment may include low or bright lighting conditions * Various sound environments including loud music, crowd noise, machinery, and animal noises * Ground conditions include various terrains including inclines/declines, wet, icy or uneven pathways * Work hours may be scheduled on weekdays or weekends, days or evenings as required The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is an outdoor facility and all staff working at the zoo must be comfortable working in a large variety of outdoor conditions. The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo follows the advice of Environment Canada when responding to temperature and air quality issues. What the Zoo Offers: * Discounts on food, beverage, and merchandise * Participation in the Staff Pass Benefit plan * A fun, rewarding work environment and the opportunity to work in a park full of wild animals Are you ready to join one of Canada’s leaders in wildlife conservation? If this position suits your skills, experience and personal attributes, we want to talk to you. Apply by doing the following: 1. Watch this video [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8J1VH1MBXm0] about the conservation work being done at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8J1VH1MBXm0) 2. Submit your resume with a cover letter via our online application system. 3. Fill in the Application questions: * Confirm eligibility to work in Canada. * If hired, when would you be available to start? * How many hours per week are you available to work? * What is your availability throughout the week? * If hired, what is your expected wage? Applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada. If this position is a fit for you, we encourage you to apply with a resume and cover letter online by April 3, 2026. The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo strives to cultivate a workplace in which everyone feels welcome and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. As a conservation organization, we respect and value the diversity of all life and come together as individuals and teammates to achieve the organization’s mission and vision. We recognize the value of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and work to advance our culture to ensure diverse viewpoints are heard and everyone has an equitable chance to succeed and thrive. All candidates are thanked for their applications and advised that they will be contacted once applications have been reviewed and a final decision has been made.

Responsibilities

Performers are responsible for designing and delivering theatrical experiences, including parades, songs, and scripted storytelling, to inspire curiosity about wildlife conservation among zoo visitors. They will also act as information resources, guiding guests and participating in performance activities using various skills like puppeteering and singing.