Organizers of the Queen Mary’s annual Dark Harbor festivities are looking for potential cast members to scare the ship out of them (yes, they said ship) during auditions near the end of this month. Those who prove they’re the scariest will go on to join the Dark Harbor family as the ghouls, contortionists and street monsters that terrify Halloween-loving guests every year.

We asked Steve Sheldon, co-producer of Dark Harbor and co-founder of EPIC Entertainment Group, what those trying out can expect during auditions and what the position offers.

If someone makes the cut, what are the demands of the job?

Being a scare actor can be physically demanding work. Cast members and crew are asked to be available to work all show nights. We hold our teams to the highest standards of guest service and expect our entire team to be committed to providing exceptional experiences for our guests.

We strive to create a friendly, welcoming and warm environment for all of our team members, the majority of whom return for multiple years. Working at Dark Harbor has been described as a “life changing experience” and those who are invited to join the team should expect to be welcomed with open arms into the Dark Harbor family.

In your experience what helps a potential cast member stand out?

Those who stand out most are the actors who really commit to their performance and to their character. A truly good performance doesn’t feel like a performance at all. A good attitude is also key.

Do you have to have prior experience acting or can anyone show up for the call?

Anyone can audition. No prior experience required.

Do you have any hints/tips/advice for artists trying out?

My advice would be to leave your inhibitions at the door, lean into your performance persona and, most importantly, have fun!

Should potential monsters show up in makeup already? Or scary attire?

No make-up or costumes are necessary for auditions.

Depending on position and seniority, cast and crew positions pay $12 to $24 an hour. Dark Harbor operating dates are Sep. 26-29, Oct. 3-6, 17-20, 24-27 and November 1-2. There will also be orientation and training dates scheduled before Dark Harbor opens. Apply to audition as a cast member, operations team or beverage team here. Auditions are Saturday, July 27 to Sunday, July 28 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Courtyard by Marriott in Downtown Long Beach, 500 E. First St.

Looking for more opportunities this summer? Here’s a few:

The deadline for the Arts Council for Long Beach‘s Creative Long Beach internships (they’re paid!) is quickly approaching on Monday, July 22. For Cal State Long Beach and Long Beach City College students, this is an opportunity to gain experience working for local arts and cultural organizations. Visit artslb.org.

Looking for venues to screen a short film or show your art? Play Nice LBC is accepting event inquiries for this month, August and September. Visit @playnicelbc on Instagram for info.

Long Beach Chorale is holding “brief, informal and non-threatening” auditions for new singers in all voice parts for its 2019/2020 season. You must be able to read music. Auditions will be held by appointment in August. Call (562) 427-1931 or e-mail [email protected] to schedule. Learn more about Long Beach Chorale and its 31-year history here.