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: Dates between (approx) June 19th and July 10th 2026
Type of Voluntary Activity:
Arts & Entertainment
Customer Service
Event Support
Greeter / Welcomer
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.
Production Support Volunteers help keep the 2026 York Mystery Plays running safely, smoothly, and on schedule by supporting the practical, behind the scenes work that prepares each performance site. You’ll be part of a hands on team assisting with tasks such as preparing performance areas before audiences arrive, helping with waggon compound set up and breakdown, moving equipment and materials under the direction of the production team, and supporting safe build and strike activity at key locations. The role is practical, outdoors, and central to making the whole event function well.
Skills and behaviours needed for the role:
• Practical, dependable, and comfortable taking on light physical tasks
• Happy working outdoors in all weathers
• Calm and steady in busy environments
• Able to follow guidance from the production team
• Team spirited, supportive, and willing to muck in
No previous experience is required — reliability and a positive, can do attitude are the essentials.
Will there be a DBS check? No
Driving Licence required? No
Volunteer's own vehicle required? No
Suitable for:
Groups
One-off Volunteering
Short term Volunteering
What will the volunteer gain/benefit from:
• A meaningful part in one of York’s most iconic cultural traditions
• Hands on experience in live event production and outdoor site work
• The chance to work closely with production teams, performers, and fellow volunteers
• Practical skills in event set up, logistics, and safe working practices
• The satisfaction of helping create a well run, welcoming event for thousands of visitors
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: 24-05-2026