WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Before the lights dim and the curtain rises at the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach, another cast works behind the scenes. For 34 years, volunteer ushers have served as the welcoming faces that help make every performance a memorable experience for thousands of patrons. The very first class trained at the Dreyfoos School of the Arts before the Kravis Center even opened its doors to the public. According to Cooney, volunteer ushers serve as the crucial first point of contact for theatergoers visiting the West Palm Beach cultural landmark. With nearly 350 performances each year, the Kravis Center relies on a team of 400 volunteer ushers to keep every show running smoothly.