Summertime Improvisational Performer

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance•Denver, CO

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) is seeking a Summertime Improvisational Performer to join the Engagement and Entertainment team. This temporary position will facilitate learning through improvisational experiences and guest engagement during DZCA's 130th Celebration. The performer will work directly on zoo grounds with the general public, entertaining guests through improvised activities inspired by conservation work, focusing on entertainment learning through hands-on experiences, activity delivery, and enthusiastic interaction. This role has a final date of 9/12/26. Two specific roles are being filled: Celebration Squad Ambassador and Outpost Ranger.

Requirements

Completion of or in pursuit of a high school degree or equivalent required, or any equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
Experience in public engagement, including theater with a focus on improvisation.
Substantial experience in long-form improvisation required.
Experience providing outstanding customer service to diverse audiences.
Must be a highly-skilled and confident improvisational actor.
Comfort and confidence in presentation skills; ability to communicate effectively in noisy, crowded situations.
Affinity for animals and nature.
Ability to work by oneself and in a team setting.
Proactive, positive, and flexible attitude; willingness to learn.
Ability to pass a background check and pre-employment drug and alcohol screen.

Nice To Haves

Exposure to working with multigenerational audiences or students of varied ages in a professional setting preferred; outstanding group management skills.
Comfortable and experienced engaging children in natural spaces preferred.

Responsibilities

Facilitate on-ground atmosphere and enhancement for guests through dynamic presentation of improvised materials.
Act in two stock roles: summer Celebration Captain to surprise and delight guests across the Zoo campus, and guest engagement and entertainment facilitator at the Wild Colorado Outpost.
Lead guests to discover habitat-based interpretation focused on wonderous experiences, and increase conservation awareness among guests.
Create experiential atmosphere through character improvisation and individual performance.
Prepare, maintain, and clean up daily performance materials and supplies.
Proactively identify and reward guests with unexpected giveaways throughout the day.
Facilitate interactive games and guest engagement opportunities.
Deliver high value emotional experiences, prioritizing "money can't buy" moments for guests.
Approach and interact with guests of all ages and demographics to get them excited about their time at DZCA.
Motivate DZCA staff to focus on high-quality guest engagement experiences.
Create memories for guests who least expect it.
Hand guests items such as family memberships, souvenirs, attraction passes, or gift certificates for the DZCA Store.
Play games with guests to win prizes.
Foster interactive discovery elements with guests on the new Colorado Conservation Trail.
Draw guests in and get them excited to explore the area and learn about Colorado Conservation.
Capture guest attention and draw them into the Station, where a Guest Engagement staff member will help teach about the various parts of the Colorado Conservation Trail.