Seasonal Performer

Position Summary

Perform multiple times per day in assigned locations for The Florida Aquarium’s 2026 holiday event, Yuletides, in a live improv and music-based show. Perform appearances for special events, media, or promotional purposes. Perform other strategic guest interactions throughout the Aquarium. Act as a brand ambassador for The Florida Aquarium.

Time Commitment Requirements and Expectations

• Applicants must audition to be considered. Auditions will be held on Tuesday, October 6th from 1- 6-pm, Wednesday, October 7th from 2:30 – 6pm and Thursday, October 8th from 1 - 6pm. Some auditions may be available on other dates within the same week, but applicants are strongly encouraged to find a time slot on October 6th, 7th or 8th. Further audition requirements will be shared with applicants via email if they are requested to audition.
• Applicants must be available for the majority of the run of the show. Rehearsals are required but with a more flexible timeline. Rehearsals will occur 2 - 4 days per week up to the run of the event. Rehearsals and event days are daytime, with some evening rehearsals nearer to show open.
• Rehearsal Period: Daytime Rehearsals (roughly 9am – 4pm) will begin the week of October 26th –November 1st (2 – 4 days/week, some evenings)
• Performance Dates: Every day from November 27th – January 3rd. Applicant can expect to be scheduled 2 – 4 days/week and must be available at least one weekend day. Applicant must be available on and around major holidays. The Florida Aquarium is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Current available roles: Sparkle and Shine are holiday decorators who have decorated the Aquarium for its Yuletides event. They use their break times to engage and interact with the Aquarium guests; singing them holiday songs with an aquarium twist. Both roles require performers that are actors with comedy and improv skills, who are vocalists/singers. Role also involves choreographed movement.

Essential Position Functions

• Performs as a singer and/or actor within a group of other performers
• Performs other strategic guest interactions in assigned areas according to schedules
• Performs daily physical and vocal warm-ups as needed to perform safely
• Maintains appearance, character, and program quality as approved by Supervisor(s)
• Takes and implements show or other program notes from Supervisor(s) to ensure top quality performance
• Maintains costume and make-up requirements based on assignment
• Assists in light cleaning and maintenance of break and performance areas
• Reports costume or show issues to Supervisor(s) in a timely manner
• Shows courteous and professional behavior with The Florida Aquarium team and guests
• Maintains team spirit with fellow Team Members to ensure seamless guest service
• Aids in the organizational and conservational goals set by The Florida Aquarium
• Respects and embodies the company values and mission
• Other duties as assigned by Supervisor(s)

Education, Experience and Technical Preferences

• Theatrical Performance, Atmospheric Entertainment, Costume Character or Mascot Experience
• A Bachelor’s degree, or 2+ years work experience, in Performing or Visual Arts, Education or related fields
• Improvisation and Movement Skills
• Experience working with children in a performance or educational setting
• Successful audition with The Florida Aquarium and any contracted parties
• Bilingual/Spanish Language a plus
• Software – Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, Power Point)

Competencies

• Performance - Bringing defined characters to life in a way that supports the intent of the management team while entertaining and educating the guests.
• Customer Service Orientation - Listening and understanding the customer and anticipating and evaluating the customer’s needs; making the customer’s satisfaction a high priority in all areas of responsibility.
• Teamwork - supporting, facilitating, and participating in activities that promote team effectiveness, demonstrating sensitivity for the feelings and needs of team members, and supporting team goals.
• Integrity/Trust - Demonstrates uncompromising adherence to ethical principles, organizational and social norms; builds trust with staff, internal and external customers; respects the confidentiality of personal and proprietary information
• Judgment - Deciding on and committing to an action on the examination of the facts at hand; finding creative solutions to situations and opportunities that arise; taking strategic risks when necessary.
• Concern for Detail - Pays attention to every portion of any task.
• Communication (oral, physical and written) - Effectively expressing ideas verbally and non-verbally and actively listening to individuals and groups; preparing and focusing presentations to the characteristics and needs of the audience; expressing ideas clearly and concisely in written form, through memoranda, letters, reports and other documents.

Typical Physical Requirements

• Sitting - 1 hour per day
• Standing - 4 hours per day
• Singing / Speaking / Projecting to large crowds throughout the day
• Walking - 4 hours per day
• Bending/Stooping - Occasionally
• Squatting - Occasionally
• Kneeling - Occasionally
• Pushing/Pulling - Occasionally
• Carrying (up to 40 lbs.) - Occasionally
• Lifting (up to 40 lbs.) - Occasionally
• Exposure to marked changes in temperature and humidity
• Exposure to dust, fumes and gases
• Coping with demands (stresses associated with the job and/or the work environment so that acceptable levels of performance and overall contribution are maintained)
• Flexibility in working weekends and evenings
• Flexibility in working holidays

The Florida Aquarium is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.