Organisation Name:
York Festival Trust
Organisation's Cause(s):
Arts / Culture / Heritage / Museums
Education & Learning
Local Community
Recreation
Location of voluntary activity:
York city centre
When are volunteers needed: Sunday 28 June & Sunday 5 July 2026
City-centre performances across four stations. Approx. 9am–6pm.
(Doing both dates is ideal, but one is possible.)
Tuesday 30 June & Wednesday 1 July 2026
Special evening performances in Shambles Market. Approx. 5.30pm–11pm.
(Again, both dates preferred but not essential.)
Type of Voluntary Activity:
Arts & Entertainment
Event Support
First Aid
Outdoor
Role description:
The York Mystery Plays return in 2026, bringing the city’s medieval waggon plays back to the streets. Plays are performed on waggons that travel between four locations in the city centre, in a world-famous outdoor theatre experience for audiences of all ages.
Deputy Station Managers support the smooth running of the 2026 York Mystery Plays at one of the city centre performance stations. You work alongside the Station Manager to help manage the flow of wagon arrivals, performances, and departures, while keeping the space safe, positive, and welcoming for audiences. The role includes greeting visitors, supporting other volunteers, helping cover roles when needed, and stepping in briefly for the Station Manager during breaks. You act as a reliable second point of leadership on site, ensuring any issues are passed promptly to the Station Manager or Event Control.
Skills and behaviours needed for the role:
• Calm, confident, and comfortable interacting with a wide range of people
• Able to work outdoors in busy public spaces
• Supportive, team focused, and happy to take direction
• Ready to give clear guidance to volunteers when needed
• Good at staying organised and aware of what’s happening around you
• Willing to attend training and commit to the event days
Experience in events or leadership can be helpful, but full support is provided and no specialist background is required.
Will there be a DBS check? No
Driving Licence required? No
Volunteer's own vehicle required? No
Suitable for:
One-off Volunteering
Short term Volunteering
What will the volunteer gain/benefit from:
• A meaningful role in one of York’s most iconic cultural traditions
• Hands on experience in live event delivery and team coordination
• The chance to work closely with performers, production teams, and fellow volunteers
• Confidence in managing public facing situations and supporting a team
• The satisfaction of helping create a safe, welcoming experience for thousands of visitors
Training will be available.
How to get involved:
Email: volunteer@yorkmysteryplays.co.uk
Or go to the website and fill out the interest form.
Web link: Click here
Closing date: 30-04-2026