Casting Call: Lost Souls of Gastown Storytellers
**We are no longer accepting applications for this recruitment cycle. Check back for future opportunities at Forbidden Vancouver!**
Vancouver actors!
Were you put on this earth to entertain people? Do you love Vancouver and its history? Are you charming, witty, and full of life? Would you enjoy pouring your heart and soul into a performance that delights and amazes your guests? Are you reliable and a great communicator?
If you can answer yes to these questions then we have the perfect job for you! For the 2022 season we are recruiting up to four new Lost Souls of Gastown Tour storytellers!
What will I be doing?
As a storyteller on the the Lost Souls of Gastown Tour, you will lead a group of anywhere between 6 and 25 people on a 90 minute guided walking tour through the backstreets and alleyways of Victorian Gastown. You’ll be in character as either Sarah Briars as George Turle, fictional characters from Vancouver’s earliest years of the 1800s.
The magic comes not just from the knowledge you’ll share with your guests, but with the passion, drama, and delight you’ll bring to every performance. Leaving your guests with a sense of amazement and memories they will cherish forever is what makes this work truly remarkable. This is a job like no other.
How do I apply?
Email the following to us at [email protected] by noon on Monday December 13, 2021:
- Resume or CV
- Indicate your availability to lead tours, starting in March 2022.
- 300-500 words on why you’d make the perfect Lost Souls of Gastown storyteller OR a short (3-min) youtube video introducing yourself.
Please be sure to include details of relevant acting experience. Examples might include live theatre, film, or historical interpretation.
Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
We are an equal-opportunities employer and welcome applications from people of all gender identities, ages, ethnicities, and sexual orientations. Proof of vaccination required to audition.
What training do I get?
You will get a full training program including coached training sessions on topics including:
- Memorization techniques
- Managing your tour group
- Blocking and body language
- Voice projection and cadence
- How to deal with interruptions
- How to ask and answer questions on the tour
- How to build empathy with your guests effectively
- How to stay in character and be an effective guide
We have a culture of collaboration, mutual respect, and fair and honest feedback. You will start leading tours when you are confident, ready, and prepared. If you check all the boxes but you don’t feel 100% confident right now in your ability to lead a historical walking tour in character, but you are intrigued by the idea, then we want to hear from you! Our training program will get you ready.
Will I need to learn a script?
Yes. You will need to learn a script. We will work with you to tune your script so that it is right for you. We also have a recommended reading list for everyone in our team to develop their knowledge of Vancouver history.
How much effort does it take?
Great things do not come easy. Becoming a fantastic storyteller will take hard work. The training sessions are demanding and you will need to be able to absorb and respond to critical feedback.
During your 2-3 month training program you will need to dedicate at least 10 hours a week to concentrated study and rehearsal time to learn the body of knowledge and complete reading on Vancouver’s history. Personal study time is not paid.
When are the tours?
In 2022, the Lost Souls of Gastown Tour will run 4-6 nights of the week, March – November, often with multiple groups per night.
How much will I be paid?
You will receive $28 per hour, plus a travel allowance. Each Lost Souls of Gastown Tour is paid as a 2 hour shift. You will also receive tips from guests. Rehearsals are paid at our admin rate of $16 per hour.
How many tours will I lead per week?
Once you have finished your training program you will likely lead between 2 and 4 walking tours per week.
But I need to take a vacation in the summer!
Don’t worry we don’t expect our storytellers to work every week all summer long. You will be able to take annual leave just like in any other job. We are a team of storytellers that support each other so that we fulfill our tour schedule and take necessary time off.
Hear what our guests have to say about the Lost Souls of Gastown Tour!
“The Lost Souls of Gastown was a fun tour. The early history of Vancouver told by a very entertaining tour guide. She was fabulous. It was like standing with and walking alongside a one woman play. FABULOUS.” – Trip Advisor barbarafK9842IL
“Took this tour on a dark and rainy fall evening. It was perfect! Tracy, our guide, is a mesmerizing host with a skillful and engaging way of weaving tales of Vancouver’s early days with humorous outtakes based on what was happening around us. She truly brought the city alive. I encourage anyone interested in Vancouver history or just looking for a fun COVID-safe way to spend an evening to take this tour.” – Trip Advisor GoPlaces479895
“I have been on walking tours in different cities all over the world, and this was by far the most engaging one I have ever had the pleasure to be on! Eric was a delightful guide and his story telling was captivating and emotionally gripping. If I had more time, I would have done all of tours offered Forbidden Vancouver!” – Trip Advisor kmbe11
How can I find out more?
Do check out the rest of our website and our facebook page. We are not accepting phone inquiries. If you have any questions, please email us at [email protected].
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Is the training free?