How to become an usher: Aisha's story

Part of Careers

Meet Aisha, 24, from London. She works at the Young Vic Theatre as a front of house assistant, or usher. Part of our Bitesize world of work series.

Aisha with a programme at the Young Vic Theatre
My job makes theatre-goers feel welcome and it makes me so happy!
Aisha speaking to a theatregoer.
Aisha speaking to a theatregoer.

What is your job?

I work at the Young Vic Theatre. I’m an usher, also known as front of house assistant. This involves showing people to their seats and if they’ve got a problem, I try to help. I talk a lot to the theatre-goers and sell programmes.

What was your educational career path?

I did three years of Performing Arts.

How did you get the job?

I had to do a five-week course with Mencap to get the job. I did a group interview, then a one-to-one interview. Then I got the job.

Was it a smooth ride?

When I was younger I had meningitis, so I take longer to do things than other people, but I get there. One of my big struggles was my maths, but it’s got a lot better. Sometimes I see letters backwards. My reading and writing skills are not the best, but it’s OK. I like it when people write things down, so I know how to process it.

What is it like to work with Aisha?

Claudia, support worker: I started work with Aisha in May. She has dyslexia and dyscalculia, so we needed to work together to improve her communication, maths, and writing skills. One of the best things of working with Aisha is that you know what you get, because she will be open with you. We always say it’s not about your qualifications, but your commitment to the job. Aisha’s definitely given us that commitment.

Aisha speaking to a theatregoer.
Aisha speaking to a theatregoer.
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Top tips

  • Just go for your dreams. Don’t let anyone stop you and say you can’t do it

  • You can be anything you want to be. If you don’t know something, just ask

  • We’re not perfect - we’re all finding out things about ourselves and that's OK.

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Aisha is a front of house assistant, or usher. Another name for this role is a cinema and theatre attendant. Cinema and theatre attendants help customers visiting entertainment shows.

What to expect if you want to be a cinema or theatre attendant

  • Cinema or theatre attendant average salary: Variable
  • Cinema or theatre attendant typical working hours: 23 to 25 hours per week

What qualifications do you need to be a cinema or theatre attendant?

You could get into this role via an apprenticeship or applying directly.

Sources: LMI for All, National Careers Service

This information is a guide and is constantly changing. Please check the National Careers Service website for the latest information and all the qualifications needed.

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