Join a Fantastic Team

Photo credit: Raya on Assignment

Openings

Development Officer, NHFF & Special Projects
Development Officer, Corporate Sponsorship
Contract Administrator and Document Coordinator
Part-Time Custodian
House Manager
Front of House positions

    • Kitchen Steward
    • Bartender
    • Server
    • Support Staff

Development Officer, NHFF & Special Projects

Full-Time
Reports to: Deputy Director of Development

POSITION SUMMARY

The Music Hall, a vibrant performing arts venue, and the New Hampshire Film Festival (NHFF), a premier annual event celebrating independent cinema, are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Development Officer, NHFF & Special Projects to join the Development team. Reporting to the Deputy Director of Development, this dual-focused role is responsible for securing and managing corporate sponsorships and individual giving to support the New Hampshire Film Festival and special projects as a part of The Music Hall. New Hampshire Film Festival, hosted in the heart of Portsmouth, New Hampshire every October, attracts filmmakers and audiences from around the country and globe. Poised for growth, this position will be responsible for growing contributed income for NHFF from individuals, corporations, and foundations. This position will also be responsible for securing sponsorship support for The Music Hall’s Special Projects such as the annual Emerging Artist Benefit Concert, programming at the Whittemore Center, the Literary Festival, Telluride by the Sea, and other non-traditional programming and outreach efforts at The Music Hall. 

The ideal candidate will have excellent communication and relationship-building skills, a sales-focused approach, a passion for the arts, and experience in fundraising. Candidate must have strong writing skills, an analytical and curious mind, and ability to function well in a fast paced environment, and extraordinary attention to detail. Film Festival experience is a plus.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

Corporate Sponsorship and Donor Strategy

  • Assist in developing and executing a joint corporate sponsorship program for The Music Hall and NHFF to meet or exceed annual fundraising goals.
  • Research, identify, solicit, and secure new sponsors, individual donors, and foundations, with a focus on businesses that align with NHFF, and special projects.
  • Collaborate with senior leadership to create strategic sponsorship opportunities tailored to both The Music Hall’s year-round programming and NHFF’s signature annual event.
  • Support contract employee in securing sales for NHFF Program, facilitating sponsor participation and stewarding Program participants.

Relationship Management

  • Cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with existing and potential sponsors and individual donors, ensuring a high level of partner engagement and satisfaction, through regular communication including phone calls, emails, newsletters, and in-person meetings.
  • Serve as the primary liaison for corporate and individual sponsors of NHFF and special projects, ensuring fulfillment of all benefits, including branding, event tickets, on-site visibility, and digital promotions.
  • Build and maintain strong working relationships with sponsors before, during, and after the NHFF and special projects to ensure renewal and long-term partnerships.
  • Work with the Development team to implement new individual giving programs for NHFF inclusive of membership programs and annual fund support.

Proposal Development, Donor Solicitation, & Benefit Fulfillment

  • Create compelling sponsorship proposals and customized packages that appeal to the unique goals of corporate partners for NHFF and special Music Hall projects, including written proposals to corporate foundations.
  • Coordinate with marketing, events, and programming teams to ensure accurate and timely delivery of sponsor benefits, including logo/text recognition, promotional materials, and public acknowledgments.

Communication

  • Assist in developing creative content for sponsor communications, including newsletters, website updates, and social media posts.
  • Create compelling annual appeals for NHFF membership and annual fund campaigns, managing the solicitation, acknowledgement and the fulfillment of benefits in a timely fashion.

Event Coordination & Participation

  • Work closely with event staff to ensure sponsor integration into The Music Hall’s events and NHFF’s multi-day festival, including sponsor signage, VIP lounges, and activation opportunities.
  • Oversee sponsor receptions, networking events, and special gatherings throughout the year, ensuring a high-quality experience for sponsors.
  • Serve as Development team lead on special projects, in collaboration with Deputy Director of Development.
  • Regularly attend Music Hall events to cultivate new donors and maintain relationships with current supporters.

Reporting & Analytics

  • Track and manage sponsorship data, including commitments, payments, benefits fulfillment, and renewal schedules, using donor database systems.
  • Prepare regular reports on sponsorship performance for both organizations, including metrics on sponsor visibility, engagement, and ROI, identifying trends and opportunities for improvement.
  • Monitor progress toward revenue goals and assist in preparing regular updates for the Deputy Director of Development, Director of Institutional Giving, and leadership team.
  • Present at Board Development Committee meetings three times per year.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, arts management, or a related field.
  • 2+ years of experience in corporate sponsorship, fundraising, or sales, preferably in a non-profit or arts environment.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven ability to build and maintain relationships with corporate partners.
  • Excellent project management skills, with the ability to juggle multiple priorities and deadlines across two organizations.
  • Proficiency in CRM software (e.g., Tessitura, Raiser’s Edge, Salesforce) is a plus.
  • A passion for the arts and commitment to the missions of The Music Hall and NHFF.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience working with high-level corporate donors or sponsors.
  • Familiarity with the Portsmouth business community and broader New Hampshire region.
  • Experience working in event coordination or planning for large-scale events.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Primarily Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm, in-person (with remote opportunities) in downtown Portsmouth, NH office with flexibility to work certain nights, weekends, and holidays based on the event schedule.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

The Music Hall offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. The salary range for this position is $46,000-$54,000.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three references to Ilysse Sirmaian at isirmaian@themusichall.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Development Officer, Corporate Sponsorship

Full-Time
Reports to: Deputy Director of Development

POSITION SUMMARY

The Music Hall, a vibrant performing arts venue located in Portsmouth, NH is seeking a dynamic and results-driven Development Officer, Corporate Sponsorship to join the Development team. Reporting to the Deputy Director of Development, this role is responsible for securing and managing corporate sponsorships with a goal of building long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships. The ideal candidate will have excellent communication and relationship-building skills, a sales-focused approach, a passion for the arts, and experience in corporate fundraising.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

Corporate Sponsorship Strategy

  • Assist in developing and executing a corporate sponsorship program for The Music Hall to meet or exceed annual fundraising goals.
  • Collaborate with senior leadership to create strategic sponsorship opportunities.
  • Research, identify, solicit, and secure new corporate sponsors, with a focus on businesses that align with the mission.
  • Support contract employee in the development of the Season Playbill and Holiday Playbill, facilitating sponsor participation and stewarding Playbill and Program participants.

Relationship Management

  • Cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with existing and potential sponsors, ensuring a high level of partner engagement and satisfaction, through regular communication including phone calls, emails, newsletters, and in-person meetings.
  • Serve as the primary liaison for corporate sponsors, ensuring fulfillment of all benefits, including branding, event tickets, on-site visibility, and digital promotions.
  • Build and maintain strong working relationships to ensure renewal and long-term partnerships.

Proposal Development & Benefit Fulfillment

  • Create compelling sponsorship proposals and customized packages that appeal to the unique goals of corporate partners, including written proposals to corporate foundations.
  • Coordinate with marketing, events, and programming teams to ensure accurate and timely delivery of sponsor benefits, including logo/text recognition, promotional materials, and public acknowledgments.

Communication

  • Manage monthly sponsor newsletter in addition to personalized communications.
  • Assist in developing creative content for sponsor communications, including newsletters, website updates, and social media posts.

Event Coordination & Participation

  • Work closely with event staff to ensure sponsor integration into The Music Hall’s events, including sponsor signage, VIP lounges, and activation opportunities.
  • Oversee sponsor receptions, networking events, and special gatherings throughout the year, ensuring a high-quality experience for sponsors.
  • Regularly attend Music Hall events to cultivate new donors and maintain relationships with current supporters.

Reporting & Analytics

  • Track and manage sponsorship data, including commitments, payments, benefits fulfillment, and renewal schedules, using donor database systems.
  • Prepare regular reports on sponsorship performance for both organizations, including metrics on sponsor visibility, engagement, and ROI, identifying trends and opportunities for improvement.
  • Monitor progress toward revenue goals and assist in preparing regular updates for the Deputy Director of Development, Director of Institutional Giving, and leadership team.
  • Present at Board Development Committee meetings three times per year.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, arts management, or a related field.
  • 2+ years of experience in corporate sponsorship, fundraising, or sales, preferably in a non-profit or arts environment.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven ability to build and maintain relationships with corporate partners.
  • Excellent project management skills, with the ability to juggle multiple priorities and deadlines across two organizations.
  • Proficiency in CRM software (e.g., Tessitura, Raiser’s Edge, Salesforce) is a plus.
  • A passion for the arts and commitment to the mission of The Music Hall.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience working with high-level corporate donors or sponsors.
  • Familiarity with the Portsmouth business community and broader New Hampshire region.
  • Experience working in event coordination or planning for large-scale events.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Primarily Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm, in-person (with remote opportunities) in downtown Portsmouth, NH office with flexibility to work certain nights, weekends, and holidays based on the event schedule.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

The Music Hall offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. The salary range for this position is $46,000-$54,000.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three references to Ilysse Sirmaian at isirmaian@themusichall.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Contract Administrator and Document Coordinator

Full-Time, exempt position
Supervisor: Associate Executive Director & Director of Programming

POSITION SUMMARY

The Contract Administrator & Document Coordinator plays a critical role in supporting The Music Hall’s operations across its venues and programming lines. This position is responsible for managing programming-related contracts and organizational documents, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely communication. The ideal candidate will have exceptional attention to detail, a passion for document management, and proficiency with digital tools for processing signatures and tracking updates.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

Contract Management

  • Review, red-line, and process for the signature of all programming-related contracts, including those for performances, events, and partnerships.
  • Maintain an organized and standardized filing system for all contracts and associated documents, adhering to file management protocols.
  • Extract and document relevant information from contracts to initiate and facilitate Event Information communications with internal staff.
  • Coordinate and initiate payment requests, including deposits (via check or wire), payment tracking, and assistance when needed for final settlement payments. Responsible for working with various parties, including but not limited to artist teams or agencies, and the finance department alongside any necessary internal teams.

Document Coordination

  • Oversee updates and modifications to Rental UPA (Usage Policy Agreement) agreements, ensuring alignment with current organizational standards and policies.
  • Assist in managing lease agreements for the Kearsarge building and other community partnership agreements.
  • Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure accurate and efficient documentation processes.

General Administrative Support

  • Ensure timely routing of documents for review, signature, and distribution using digital tools and systems.
  • Maintain detailed records of contract lifecycles, from drafting and approval to execution and archiving.
  • Track deadlines, renewals, and compliance requirements for all assigned agreements.
  • Participate, educate, and be a resource in establishing organizational document and file management standards.
  • To be the person responsible for keeping an up to date organization-wide inventory of all existing and in process standard operating procedures including primary author, date last updated, link to file location, etc.
  • Specific to this role, provide administrative assistance in keeping Programming SOPs and document templates, including Event Info Sheets, Rental SOP, and Calendar procedures. Responsible for conducting regular audits to maintain accuracy and relevance. Role may be expanded to provide assistance to other departments as requested.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, legal studies, or a related field preferred, or equivalent work experience.
  • Experience:
    • At least 2 years of experience in contract management, legal administration, document management or a similar role.
    • Experience in the arts, entertainment, or non-profit sectors is a plus.
  • Skills and Abilities:
    • Team Collaboration: Ability to work collaboratively with multiple departments and stakeholders to ensure seamless contract management.
    • Accountability: A proactive approach to managing responsibilities, ensuring all tasks are completed accurately and on time.
    • Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with digital document tools and the ability to adapt to new technologies as needed.
    • Ethics and Integrity: Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information with discretion.
    • Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
    • Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
    • Proficiency with digital tools for contract processing, electronic signatures (e.g., DocuSign, Adobe Sign), and file management systems.
    • Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.
    • Problem-solving mindset with a focus on efficiency and accuracy.
    • Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 9:00 am-5:00 pm, in-person (with remote opportunities) in downtown Portsmouth, NH office.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

Competitive and based on experience.
Salary Range: $46k-$54k
Compensation package includes health benefits, earned time off, Company-Matched 401K, cell phone reimbursement, and a rotating parking schedule. 

HOW TO APPLY

Please email a cover letter and resume to Ashleigh Tucker Pollock at atucker@themusichall.org by March 10, 2025. 

The Music Hall is an equal opportunity employer. We highly encourage those traditionally underrepresented in our industry to apply. For individuals with disabilities who would like to request an accommodation, we encourage you to email Joe Gleason at jgleason@themusichall.org.

Part-Time Custodian

Part-time; 12-15 hours a week, $18 an hour
Must be able to work weekends
Reports to: Director of Production and Facilities
Please email resume to: mtucker@themusichall.org

POSITION SUMMARY

This position works with the lead/head custodian ensures that all facilities are safe, clean, and accessible for staff, volunteers, artists, and patrons by completing duties such as cleaning, minor repairs, and building security so both venues are in a suitable condition to work and conduct business in and support the current programming calendar and needs.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

  1. Ensures that all of the facilities are properly clean and maintained according to company policy and procedures.
    • Performs general, routine custodial duties, including dusting, mopping, vacuuming, cleaning restrooms, and restocking paper and soap supplies.
    • Performs routine maintenance of custodial equipment and supplies.
      • Ensures proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment and supplies
    • Empties trash receptacles dispose of trash into compactors and/or dumpsters, and bags trash for appropriate disposal.
    • May assist or perform snow removal activities and minor maintenance, such as replacing light bulbs, adjusting furniture, or other similar activities.
    • Works with lead/head custodial staff to complete duties
    • Ensures that the waste management and recycling for both venues, including weekly City of Portsmouth trash pick-up, is completed
  2. Maintain the upkeep and minor maintenance of The Music Hall venues, equipment, and supplies to meet health and organizational safety standards outlined by the City of Portsmouth Fire Department.  
    • Report needs and concerns to appropriate staff, which may include submitting or recommending work orders and checking supply levels 
    • Assists with Managing facilities vendors when they have been scheduled in the buildings
    • Updates and reports findings from the vendors to the General Manager of the Front of House and Facilities.
    • Works withe the lead/head custodian to inventory and maintain facility stock levels.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

The requirements listed below are representative of the education, experience, knowledge, skill, and/or abilities required for this position:

  • Work Schedule: Based on programming schedule
  • Physical abilities:
    • To total 100%
    • 20% Lifting
    • 20% Reaching
    • 20% Bending
    • 20% Pushing/Pulling
    • 20% Walking Up/Down Stairs

In addition to the roles and responsibilities outlined in this job description, employees of the Music Hall are expected to positively contribute to a healthy organizational culture by integrating The Music Hall’s core values into their behaviors and skill sets.  

Additional Responsibilities: In most cases, staff members will be responsible for other duties as assigned, including but not limited to, attendance at live events and presence at engagements and special events outside of normal working hours.

Supervisors, managers, and general managers who become aware of discriminating or harassing conduct and/or a complaint of discrimination or harassment must report the conduct and/or complaint immediately to the Chief Financial & Operations Officer. 

Company reserves the right to change or modify the employee’s job description whether orally or in writing, at any time during the employment relationship. Company may require an employee to perform duties outside his/her normal description.

 

House Manager

Part-Time: Hourly
Reports to Front of House General Manager

POSITION SUMMARY

The Music Hall, a vibrant and active arts and culture nonprofit performing arts organization, seeks an energetic and personable person to join the Front of House team as a House Manager. 

 This role is key in helping to execute the run of the show for the audience including overseeing safety, providing necessary accommodations, and delivering a first-class customer service experience, before, during, and after the show.  

Producing 300+ live events annually, this role will be incorporated into all Music Hall’s locations to include shows and events taking place at the Historic Theater (900 seats), Lounge (115 seats), and the new Member’s Club (75 seats) opening in April 2024.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Assist in supervising logistics for all front of house guest-related services at live events to include:
    •  Customer Service: Overseeing services provided by Music Hall volunteers to include but not limited to ushers, ticket scanners, coat check, elevator access, greeters, etc.; assist guests and artists in answering special requests and resolving problems as necessary; deliver high-touch customer service to all patrons while recognizing donors, members, and stakeholders as such.
    • Guest & Staff Safety: Implementing and leading emergency procedures for guest, volunteer, and staff safety to include full evacuation of a venue when it is deemed necessary; assisting and reporting with any medical issues that arise; assist with helping guests that require accommodations into the theater safely and securely. 
    • Show Operations: Reconcile end-of-night artist merchandise count; regularly communicates over headset with other key departments including production and box office, to ensure all pertinent information on shows is accurate and up to date; manages the maintenance and cleanliness of all areas where food and beverage is served while complying with guidelines provided by the City of Portsmouth and State of NH Health Inspectors; reports any malfunctions and safety concerns in all venues to the Facilities Department; sets-up and restocks supplies and materials for concessions, restrooms, and inside the theater. 

QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School Education 
  • 3 years of guest-service experience (theater preferred, but restaurant/hospitality accepted)
  • Excellent patron relations skills to include strong verbal communication and decision-making ability
  • Must possess a professional and courteous demeanor in all situations
  • Must maintain a professional appearance at all times
  • Ability and willingness to work a flexible schedule to include nights and weekends
  • Experience with POS systems and satisfactory computer skills (G Suite, Word, Excel, Keynote)
  • Must be able to think on one’s feet and handle high-volume, fast-paced pressure of a multi-venue theater environment.
  • Other desired qualifications: Bartending experience is strongly preferred
  • Physical abilities: Ability to lift 25lbs+ to include concessions related items

3% Typing/Sitting
30% Lifting
20% Reaching
20% Bending
20% Pushing/Pulling
30% Walking Up/Down Stairs

HOW TO APPLY

Please email a cover letter and resume directly to: Jeff Kamensky with the subject “House Manager. ” Applications directly submitted from outside platforms (LinkedIn, etc.) will be accepted; however, direct emailing is preferred. No calls or walk-ins, please. 

The Music Hall is an equal opportunity employer. We highly encourage those traditionally underrepresented in our industry to apply. For individuals with disabilities who would like to request an accommodation, we encourage you to email jkamensky@themusichall.org.

Front of House positions

Part-time, no-exempt: flexibility with scheduling
Applications: accepted on a rolling basis
Please send a resume to: Kevin Walsh at kwalsh@themusichall.org.

The Music Hall welcomes all applicants of varying skill levels and experience to join our amazing team of talented and passionate Front of House professionals. 

We are seeking dynamic can-doers of all backgrounds and experience in various positions, including Bartenders, Cocktail Servers, Support Staff, Kitchen Stewards, and House Managers to help produce the best entertainment experience possible for our patrons in both our Historic Theater and Music Hall Lounge location. 

Please send resumes to kwalsh@themusichall.org. 

KITCHEN STEWARD

Attends to the detail and presentation of each prepared food order. Prepares ingredients by following recipes; slicing, cutting, chopping, mincing, stirring, whipping, and mixing ingredients; adding seasonings; verifying taste; and plating meals. 

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to light prep and set up, maintaining a clean and organized workspace, fostering great sanitation practices, reporting low-stock items, and cleaning up and breaking down of workspace. 

BARTENDER 

Bartenders work directly with customers and other staff members by mixing and serving drink orders. 

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to general set-up and bar prep; maintaining a clean and organized workspace; fulfilling service tickets quickly, efficiently, and QUIETLY; cash handling and processing payments; restocking; clean-up and breakdown of workspace.

SERVER

Servers ensure the timely delivery of food and beverages by checking on their tables periodically throughout the service time. Server responsibilities include but are not limited to attending to patrons before, during, and after the show by helping them place, receive, and pay for their orders. Other duties include: general set-up, garnishing drinks, running items from service areas to patrons, and providing exceptional customer service.  

SUPPORT STAFF

The support staff role is important to running a smooth operation and is a perfect entry-level position for someone looking to enter the service industry. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: Expediting and running items from service areas to patrons, bussing tables of empty glasses/plates, cleaning, polishing, refilling ice, and restocking.  

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

                  • Providing excellent customer service and helping to ensure that patrons and members have amazing experiences. 
                  • Experience with POS systems is a plus but not required.
                  • Bartenders and Servers must be T.E.A.M. training certified.

RELATIONSHIPS

Reports to: Assistant General Manager of Front of House & Facilities and House Manager on duty.

HOW TO APPLY 

Please send a resume to: Kevin Walsh at kwalsh@themusichall.org. 

The Music Hall is an equal opportunity employer. We highly encourage those traditionally underrepresented in our industry to apply. Diversity is core to our beliefs at The Music Hall. We are passionate about building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable working and learning environment for all employees, volunteers, and artists. For individuals with disabilities who would like to request an accommodation, we encourage you to email kwalsh@themusichall.org.

ABOUT THE MUSIC HALL

The Music Hall, established in 1878 as a Vaudeville theater, has become a cornerstone of Portsmouth’s vibrant arts scene. Over nearly 150 years, it has evolved into a premier performing arts center, featuring two distinct venues: the landmark Victorian-era Historic Theater, designated an American Treasure by the National Park Service, and the modern Music Hall Lounge, an intimate 116-seat cabaret-style space. Together, they host over 130,000 patrons annually, offering a diverse array of live performances and on-screen programming that foster creativity and community.

In 2024, The Music Hall expanded its cultural offerings by taking over the New Hampshire Film Festival (NHFF), the state’s longest-running film festival, which attracts thousands of visitors each fall with independent films, panels, and networking events. That same year, it opened a new Members Club with McKeon’s Bar and the Box Office & Ticketing Hub, housed in the historic Kearsarge House on Congress Street. This exclusive speakeasy-style club allows members and sponsors direct access to the Historic Theater.

Since 1987, The Friends of The Music Hall, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, have upheld its mission: to present diverse, high-quality arts programming as a vital cultural hub for the Seacoast community. Today, The Music Hall continues to enrich Portsmouth’s cultural fabric with world-class entertainment.