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
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.
Skills and behaviours needed for the role:
• Physically able to help push a heavy waggon over short distances
• Comfortable taking clear direction from the Waggon Master
• Calm and steady in busy public spaces
• Reliable, punctual, and prepared for an early start
• Team spirited and able to work closely with others
• Wearing sturdy, practical footwear
• 18+ and happy working outdoors for extended periods
Groups may rotate volunteers, but each waggon needs a dependable core team.
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 lively, hands on role at the centre of one of York’s most iconic cultural traditions
• Experience working as part of a coordinated team in a large outdoor event
• A unique behind the scenes perspective on how the waggon plays move through the city
• Close collaboration with performers, Waggon Masters, and fellow volunteers
• The satisfaction of helping keep the performances running safely and smoothly
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