Kalamazoo Holiday Parade: Talent, Reporters and Directors!

For this year’s Kalamazoo Holiday Parade broadcast, we’re especially seeking individuals to step into key on-air and leadership roles. We need engaging on-air talent to provide live commentary, introduce segments, and keep the broadcast lively, as well as a confident on-the-street interviewer to connect with participants and spectators through live interviews

Specialized Roles (Experience Required or Strongly Preferred)
- On-Air Talent (1–2 positions): This role is perfect for someone with a clear speaking voice, a lively personality, and experience (or comfort) being on camera. You’ll provide commentary, introduce segments, and help keep the energy high throughout the broadcast. Familiarity with local events and culture is a plus.
- On-the-Street Interviewer (1 position): As our roaming reporter, you’ll be stationed along the parade route conducting live or recorded interviews with participants and spectators. This role requires confidence, quick thinking, and the ability to engage people on the fly — all while staying camera-ready.
- Technical Director: The TD is responsible for switching between video feeds, executing the director’s commands, and ensuring the visual flow of the broadcast runs smoothly. You should be familiar with video switchers and live production workflows.
- Audio/Graphics Operator (1 position): In this dual role, you'll manage audio levels during the live show and help trigger on-screen graphics as needed. Prior experience with live mixing boards or broadcast graphics software is strongly preferred.
Director (1 position): The director oversees the entire production from the control room, calling camera shots, coordinating timing, and leading the crew. This role requires strong leadership and experience in live video production.

Training and Preparation
All volunteers are strongly encouraged to attend equipment training sessions at PMN (Public Media Network) in the weeks leading up to the parade. This is a great opportunity to get hands-on with the gear, meet the crew, and get comfortable with your role before parade day.
If you're new to media or want a refresher, we’re offering a free 1-month training membership to parade volunteers — a great way to explore podcasting, video production, and studio equipment beyond the event!

We recommend scheduling training by early November at the latest so you’re well-prepared. We will be reaching out to you regarding the position you’re interested in, as well as the training needed for that role.

Be Part of the Team! Whether you're looking to build your media skills, connect with the community, or just be part of the excitement, we'd love to have you join our crew for this year’s Kalamazoo Holiday Parade.