RTÉ is organising a massive public event on Easter Monday to mark the centenary of the 1916 Rising, and it's looking for volunteer helpers who'd like to play a role in this important historical anniversary.
The event – RTÉ Reflecting the Rising – is a public invitation to commemorate, to celebrate and to understand this significant moment in the island's history, and it will take place in 75 indoor and outdoor venues around Dublin on 28 March between 11am and 6pm. Among the locations are St Stephen’s Green, the Gaiety Theatre, the Mansion House, Trinity College, Liberty Hall, the Four Courts, Smithfield Square and Collins Barracks.
RTÉ will be hosting a series of several hundred talks as well as seminars, walking tours, debates, artistic installations, workshops, demonstrations, street entertainment, music, dance and drama performances.
A huge attendance is expected, and that's why help is needed. Volunteers are needed as:
1916 Ambassadors – to act as stewards – eg indoors, welcoming people to the talks etc; and outdoors, helping with directions. Advance training will be provided.
1916 Walking Tour Hosts – will be armed with scripts, stories etc. RTÉ say a knowledge of history isn't a pre-requisite but it would be an advantage to have a strong voice and plenty of enthusiasm
If you fancy taking part, you'd be invited to RTÉ for two orientation/information days during the first two weekends of March. This will also give you chance to meet fellow volunteers. If you can’t make these weekends, RTÉ will post the necessary material and liaise with you by phone.
To apply, email your name and phone number and your preferred role (1916 Ambassador or Walking Tour Host) to 1916@RTE.ie
Positions will be assigned on a first come, first served basis. They are expected to fill up quickly, so if you're keen to take part, register your interest asap.