Lead Bartender; Part-Time

Reports to:

Playhouse Patron Loyalty Manager Pay Rate: $17/hour – plus tips eligible Classification:
Part-Time, Non-Exempt

Location:

Staunton, Virginia (on-site)

The American Shakespeare Center (ASC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Staunton, Virginia, home to the world’s first recreation of Shakespeare’s Blackfriars Playhouse. We produce world-class performances, deliver dynamic education programs, and foster an inclusive community through audience-focused storytelling.

You’ll create a welcoming and efficient bar experience for patrons before and during performances at the Blackfriars Playhouse. You’ll manage beverage/snack service, handle cash and credit transactions, maintain stock and inventory, and contribute to a cohesive front-of-house environment. You’ll also coordinate with the House Manager and Playhouse Patron Loyalty Manager to support events and ensure smooth operations.

• Sell beverages and snacks during preshow and intermission. Communicate clearly and provide friendly patron service.
• Maintain compliance with Virginia ABC regulations.
• Update bar signage as needed for pricing and selections.
• Remove trash and recycling at the end of shifts.

• Hand-count all bar items before and after each shift (soda, beer, wine, water, snacks).
• Reconcile sales with the House Manager and bar inventory sheet.
• Ensure accurate cash/credit handling and reporting.
• Restock coolers, closets, bar stations, and snacks after intermission.
• Prepare restock items for the gift shop fridge when needed.
• Oversee bar inventory and communicate supply needs to the Playhouse Patron Loyalty Manager.
• Report weekly restock needs for beverages and snacks.

• Coordinate with the House Manager for special events requiring extra supplies or staff.
• Share basic information with patrons about ASC and current performances.

Status: Part-time, on-site position averaging 12–15 hours per week during the performance season. Additional hours may be available during the holiday season.

Flexibility: Schedule flexes with production and event calendars; some pre-scheduled Monday/Tuesday hours with alternate days off.

Typical Pattern: Wednesday–Sunday, with hours varying between 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 p.m.

Sample Schedule (illustrative only; subject to change):

• Wednesday: 9:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. or 6:00–9:30 p.m.
• Thursday: 9:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. or 6:00–9:30 p.m.
• Friday: 6:00–9:30 p.m.
• Saturday: 12:30–4:00 p.m. or 6:00–9:30 p.m.
• Sunday: 12:30–4:00 p.m. or 6:00–9:30 p.m.

Coverage Window: Bar service available during preshow and intermissions; must be available for student matinee bar shifts on Wednesdays and Thursdays (9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.).

Holidays: Must be available to work major holidays and peak performance dates. Alternate days off provided.

Off Season: January (no regular bar shifts).

Required

• Age 21+ (Virginia alcohol service requirement).
• Valid driver’s license and ability to assist with occasional restock pickups.
• Previous bartending or customer service experience.
• Strong cash handling and reconciliation skills.
• Availability for evenings, weekends, holidays, and student matinees.
• Clear communication and patron-facing professionalism.

Preferred

• Familiarity with Virginia ABC compliance and bar operations.
• Experience in a theatre or performing arts venue.
• Knowledge of ASC’s programming and audience experience.
• Retail or merchandising background.
• $17/hour, part-time, non-exempt, tips eligible
• No benefits offered for this position
• Complimentary ASC performance tickets.

Send your resume and a brief cover letter to Mili.

Koncelik@ with the subject line:
Lead Bartender Application . Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until filled.
For priority consideration, please apply by October 3, 2025.