Careers & Casting

An institutional culture of dignity, trust, and mutual respect.

At Geva Theater, we are committed to upholding the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in our programming, casting, hiring of guest artists, and recruitment of staff in all departments.

Geva Theatre provides a variety of opportunities for tomorrow’s artists and leaders to hone their craft alongside our professional staff.

Job Openings

As Rochester’s professional theatre, we take particular responsibility to reflect the community we serve. To that end, for all employment opportunities, we actively encourage applications from women, BIPOC individuals, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and individuals with disabilities. All are welcome here

First Hand

SUMMARY

The First Hand is responsible for working with the Cutter/Draper and Costume Shop staff in the construction of new costumes and the preparation of stock/rental costumes for use in productions. Also responsible for maintaining Geva’s core values of artistic courage, sustainability, excellence, boundless hospitality, empathy, and anti-racism and inclusion.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Costume Fitting & Construction Process

Complete all projects assigned by Costume Shop Supervisor in an efficient, safe, and timely manner while maintaining the integrity of Designer’s vision.
Prepare work for stitchers.
Assist Cutter/Draper in fittings, cutting, pattern making, stitching, and alterations for all assigned pieces.
Complete hand and finish work as assigned.
Assist Cutter/Draper to determine best construction techniques.
Practice safe and appropriate use of common chemical-based products found in costume shop, including but not limited to: dye, spray paint, barge, contact cement, spray adhesives, etc.
With Costume Shop Supervisor, research period, styles, and techniques necessary to complete costume pieces to Designer’s specifications.

Administration

Participate in end-of-day shop cleaning and organization projects as needed.
Participate in costume rentals or external costume construction as needed.
Work collaboratively with other departments and co-workers to archive information about each production for future reference.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

Required

Ability to work collaboratively and efficiently with a wide variety of co-workers at different levels of skill and knowledge.
Demonstrated knowledge and experience in theatrical costume construction techniques and materials.
Demonstrated working knowledge of fabric types and their uses.
Ability to prioritize multiple projects at once.
Ability to delegate work as needed.
Capacity to solve problems and engage in creative thinking about challenges
Exhibit empathy, kindness, diplomacy, and humor in the workplace.

Desired

Knowledge of costume history.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Ability to lift up to 25 lbs, crouch, twist, turn, bend, stoop, stand and sit for extended periods of time, perform tasks involving repetitive motion (i.e. hand sewing, machine sewing, cutting, pressing, etc.)

The above statements are not intended to encompass all functions and qualifications of the position, but are intended to provide a general framework of the requirements of the position. Employee may be required to perform other functions not specifically addressed in this job description.

Compensation starts at $18.25/hr. The start date for this job is August 10^th, 2026.

The above statements are not intended to encompass all functions and qualifications of the position but are intended to provide a general framework of the requirements of the position. Employee may be required to perform other functions not specifically addressed in this job description.

Donor Engagement Officer

Geva Theatre, a LORT B regional theatre in the heart of Rochester, NY with an annual operating budget of $8.5 million, seeks a dynamic and experienced Donor Engagement Officer to identify, qualify, cultivate, solicit, and steward donors in the $250-$2,499 range. This frontline fundraiser will manage a portfolio of 250–300 donors and prospects, building lasting relationships to acquire, retain, and upgrade gifts while connecting supporters to Geva’s artistic mission.

This position reports to the Director of Development and serves as an integral member of the Development Team. The Donor Engagement Officer will work closely with the Director of Development to establish goals and benchmarks, specifically targeting: increased number of mid-level donors; increased total revenue from the mid-level donor segment; improved donor retention rates; and successful gift upgrades from retained donors.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Donor Engagement (35%) – Identify, qualify, and cultivate mid-level donors through personal outreach, events, and tailored experiences.
Solicitation (40%) – Develop and execute strategies to renew, upgrade, and acquire gifts, leveraging annual fund drives, targeted campaigns, and special appeals.
Stewardship (15%) – Provide personalized acknowledgments, coordinate donor experiences, and ensure accurate recognition across all platforms.
Data & Reporting (10%) – Maintain accurate donor records, track progress, and report regularly on portfolio activity.
Other duties as assigned

DESIRED TRAITS IN A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE:

3–4 years of proven success in fundraising, sales, or relationship management.
Demonstrated ability to close gifts, build relationships, and meet revenue goals.
Exceptional communication, organization, and project management skills.
Comfort with direct donor outreach and solicitation.
Experience engaging with diverse communities.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office; donor database experience.
Passion for live theatre and the arts.

Preferred: Nonprofit fundraising experience, knowledge of the Rochester philanthropic community, and familiarity with planned giving or multi-year campaigns.

ABOUT GEVA
Geva Theatre is dedicated to creating and producing singular theatre productions and programs that serve the Rochester region and beyond, by illuminating the fullness of our many human experiences. As Rochester’s flagship professional theatre, Geva is one of the most attended regional theatres in New York State. Geva operates two venues – the 511-seat Elaine P. Wilson Stage and the 180-seat Ron & Donna Fielding Stage.

Critical to Geva Theatre’s core values is an institutional culture of dignity, trust, and mutual respect. We are committed to upholding the principles of inclusion, diversity, equity, accessibility, and anti-racism in recruitment of staff in all departments. To that end, for all employment opportunities, we actively encourage applications from persons of color, women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, individuals with disabilities and all other identities and legally protected classes. Geva Theatre is an equal opportunity employer. All are welcome here.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Salary and benefits commensurate with experience ranging from $25-$28/hr.

Geva Theatre offers a comprehensive benefits package that supports employee health, financial well-being, and work-life balance, including medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and eligible dependents. Employees receive paid time off, company holidays, personal days, and access to a 403(b) plan with company match. Additional voluntary and supplemental benefits are also available.

Production Assistant

PRODUCTION ASSISTANT

Geva Theatre, a LORT B regional theatre in the heart of Rochester, New York, is seeking to fill Production Assistant positions in the 2026/27 season. Candidates may be considered for one or all openings. All positions are full-time, non-exempt, and temporary within the dates below.

Topdog/Underdog – September 11-November 22, 2026

Laughs in Spanish – April 13-June 6, 2027

Other miscellaneous projects throughout the 2026/27 season

SUMMARY

The Production Assistant is responsible for supporting the stage management team during the rehearsal process and during the execution of backstage run-of-show. Also responsible for Geva’s core values of artistic courage, sustainability, excellence, boundless hospitality, empathy, and anti-racism and inclusion.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITY

Attend all prep, rehearsal, and performance events for the production
Assist in the preparation of rehearsal and performance spaces for the day’s work, including cleaning (sweeping, mopping, wiping of surfaces, washing of prop dishes), presetting of rehearsal items and show props (including prop food products), and distribution of materials
Assist in the tracking, recording, and pre-setting of the backstage elements, the stage props, and the stage action during rehearsals and performances
Assist wardrobe crew with costume presets, changes, and other wardrobe functions as needed
Assist with rehearsal and performance hospitality set-up and inventory
Supervise breakout/secondary rehearsal spaces

TRAITS IN A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE

Familiarity with the professional theatrical process.
Experience in the rehearsal and performance process of theatrical stage management
Experience in the creation and use of run-of-show paperwork, especially backstage runsheets
Experience in the execution of scenic and properties shifts during rehearsal and performance.
Basic computer skills in Word, Excel, and the Internet. Experience with Google Suite and Dropbox a plus.
Punctuality, Effective communication and interpersonal skills for asking informed questions, and a willingness to learn and grow
The ability to work independently and as a part of a team.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to crouch, twist, turn, bend, stoop, climb stairs and ladders, stand and sit for extended periods of time, reach above, below and at neck level, have full range of neck motion, see near and far with good depth perception, and work indoors and outdoors.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.

Geva Theatre is dedicated to create and produce singular theatre productions and programs that serve the Rochester region and beyond, by illuminating the fullness of our many human experiences. As Rochester’s flagship professional theatre, Geva is one of the most attended regional theatres in New York State. Geva operates two venues – the 516-seat Elaine P. Wilson Stage and the 180-seat Ron & Donna Fielding Stage.

Critical to Geva Theatre’s core values is an institutional culture of dignity, trust, and mutual respect. We are committed to upholding the principles of inclusion, diversity, equity, accessibility, and anti-racism in recruitment of staff in all departments. To that end, for all employment opportunities, we actively encourage applications from, women, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ individuals, individuals with disabilities and all other identities and legally protected classes. Geva Theatre is an equal opportunity employer. All are welcome here.

Salary offered at $16.75 per hour.

To apply, please submit a cover letter that addresses your experience and how you see your work aligning with Geva’s values, a resume, and professional references.

Run Crew Positions

Geva Theatre, a professional regional theatre in Rochester, NY with LORT B & D stages, seeks qualified run crew members for its productions. We are looking to hire stagehands, follow spot operators, A2s, wardrobe crew, production assistants, and light and sound board operators. Each production will require approximately a 6-8 week commitment.

The primary responsibility will be attending all technical rehearsals and performances (8 shows a week) for each production. Performances are weeknights, weekend afternoons and weekend evenings. Crew calls involve any necessary preshow set up and post show restore for the position assigned.

Candidates must have demonstrated skill in the area they are applying for and at least some experience in the live professional theatre. Pay rate of $16.50 per hour. These are ideal jobs for early career candidates or recent college graduates. We are particularly interested in candidates from the greater Rochester area.

Geva is committed to upholding the principles of equity, diversity, inclusion and anti-racist theater in recruitment of staff in all departments. We actively encourage applications from women, BIPOC individuals, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and individuals with disabilities. All are welcome here.

Please include a cover letter, resume and references with the application form. Geva Theatre is an equal opportunity employer.

Production Overhire

Geva Theatre, a professional regional theatre in Rochester, NY with LORT B & D stages, seeks qualified run crew members for its productions. We are looking to hire the following positions: Scenic Carpenter, Scenic Artist, Props Artisan, Stitcher, Costume Crafts, Electricians, and Audio Technicians.

Under the supervision of the applicable Production department head, job duties will include the construction, installation, maintenance, modification, or removal of various production elements. The ideal candidate will be diligent, organized, collaborative, positive and professional and have some experience in the area that they are applying.

Positions are on a temporary, “show-by-show” basis, may be part-time, and may require evening and weekend work hours. Applications are accepted and filed on an ongoing basis, if a position is needed candidates that have applied will be contacted. Pay rate of $16.50 an hour.

Please include a cover letter, resume and references with the application form. Geva Theatre is an equal opportunity employer.

Internships, Apprenticeships, and Fellowships

For information about internships and apprenticeships for current college students and directing fellowships for recent post advanced degree (or equivalent professional experience) theatre directors, please email our education department. All other career development and hiring inquiries should be submitted here.

Casting

Geva is a member of the League of Resident Theatres and works under an agreement with Actors Equity Association (AEA), the union of professional actors and stage managers. By agreement, most (but not all) adult actors are required to be members of AEA.

General auditions for both union and non-union actors are held annually, prior to the beginning of each new season, at which time local actors are invited to present monologues and/or songs.

Local non-union casting is conducted in Rochester by Geva’s artistic staff. Please check this space for further information about any and all local casting calls.

If you have any questions about casting at Geva, email casting@gevatheatre.org

A Christmas Carol Youth Auditions

Geva Theatre is seeking local actors ages 7-13 for a new and exciting production of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, adapted by Harrison David Rivers in collaboration with Sally Lobel, directed by Elizabeth Williamson, music direction by Don Kot, and choreography by Ashleigh King. Please see important audition and production details below.

Audition Details

First Round Auditions

Saturday Aug 15th 1pm-4pm @ Avenue Blackbox (780 Joseph Ave, Rochester NY 14621)
Monday Aug 17th 6pm-9pm @ Geva Theatre (75 Woodbury Blvd, Rochester NY 14607)

Callbacks

Thursday Aug 20th 5:30-9:00pm @ Geva Theatre (Location: 75 Woodbury Blvd, Rochester NY 14607)

Production Details

First Rehearsal: Oct 31st, 2026
Tech: Nov 19th, 2026
First Preview: Nov 25th, 2026
Opening: Nov 28th, 2026
Closing: Dec 27th, 2026

How to Sign Up

To sign up your kid(s) for one of our first-round auditions sessions, please register them at the following link:

How to Prepare

Your kid(s) will be paired in small groups and read a small cut of the play, provided to them during the auditions. Afterward, your kid(s) will be asked to sing Happy Birthday.

Casting Breakdown

Breakdown

Please note that each role will be double cast.

TIM – Any Ethnicity, Any Gender, child. Perceptive and older than their years. Pleasant singing voice. Physically disabled.

*Please note for the role of Tim Cratchit, Geva Theatre is committed casting a disabled actor for this role. We highly encourage children of all disabilities, both visible and invisible, to audition for this role. For other roles listed below, all children (regardless of disability status) will be considered.

YOUNG EBENEZER – Any Ethnicity, Any Gender, child. Bookish and hopeful. Also plays ENSEMBLE

BOY – Any Ethnicity, Any Gender, child. Bright and industrious. Also plays ARTHUR and ENSEMBLE

CLARENCE – Any Ethnicity, Any Gender, child. Affable. Also plays ENSEMBLE

BELINDA – Any Ethnicity, Any Gender, child. Nosy and adorable. Also plays ENSEMBLE

For Questions

For any questions, please contact Resident Director/Associate Producer, Jasmine B. Gunter at the following email address: casting@gevatheatre.org

Diversity & Inclusion

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at Geva

Critical to Geva Theatres core values is an institutional culture of dignity, trust, and mutual respect.
In every decision we make, we strive to uphold the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion, and to facilitate artistic excellence and risk.