Our Needs:

• Approximately 10 puppeteer positions. Training is held in September/October or January/February.
• Performances are held from September to June. Volunteers are required to commit to one morning or afternoon a week for the performances.
• We also need drivers/narrators who introduce the show but do not puppeteer.
• We also look for volunteers to do light office duties in the office 4 – 6 hours a week.

Qualifications:

• Energetic, enthusiastic people with NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY!
• This is a highly physical volunteer position which requires a certain amount of agility and flexibility.
• Must be physically able to hold a puppet (weighing 3-4 pounds on your hand) for a period of up to 45 minutes, the length of a performance.
• Ability to crouch and/or stand freely while holding a puppet on one hand.
• The ability to memorize a script efficiently.
• A dramatic flair is advantageous.
• Knowledge of the topics we discuss is also an asset (it helps answer questions young people may have during the presentation.)
• Strong leadership skills are an asset for people interested in being Team Leaders and/or Narrators.
• A CAR is an asset.
• Willingness to travel across the GTA and surrounding area, including Mississauga, Brampton and York Region schools.

Training:

• Training takes place in the months of September/October and/or January/February.
• What you’ll learn during training:
  • Puppetry Skills like: Mouth synchronization, gestures, eye focus and posture of the puppet
  • Character development
  • Voice characterization and projection
  • Breathing techniques and physical warm-ups to prevent muscle strain
  • School procedures
  • Story-telling … and MORE!
• Please note: Training is exclusive to volunteers who are planning to commit one half day per week during the school year to The Concerned Kids only.

For more information on volunteering with The Concerned Kids please call 416-636-1656.