![Show: how to post engaging content [content idea list]](http://onlineyougrow.com/cdn/shop/articles/cov-marketing-plan-2_21388096-e628-4e34-86e0-f8287c3d4352.png?v=1715865572&width=1100)
Facebook and Instagram are not just for likes and fun—they're powerful tools that the best shows in the world use strategically to attract audiences.
We know you're busy preparing for your show and the thought of managing social media might feel like another burden.
But here's the deal: you don't need to be a marketing expert or spend a fortune to make it work. Just a few minutes a day can bring a couple of new audience members to your seats.
To help you out, we have built a free list of content ideas - also, for a full action plan, please check our strategy pack for show organizers.
Get the content idea list made for show producers
A lot of shows manage to post engaging content on social media. Here is a free tool to to get you started.
Content that always work well for a show
We have analyzed numerous show promotions and social media strategies to create our strategy pack for shows - here is what consistently draws in new audiences.
| Content Type | Why It Works to Attract New Audiences to Your Show |
|---|---|
| High-Quality Performance Clips | Visually stunning snippets of performances can captivate potential audience members, enticing them to attend the show. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Videos | Showcasing rehearsals, set designs, and cast interactions builds trust and creates a connection with the audience. |
| Audience Testimonials | Positive reviews and testimonials from real attendees provide social proof and encourage others to experience the show. |
| Special Offers and Promotions | Announcing limited-time discounts, early bird tickets, and group deals can attract new audience members looking for value. |
| User-Generated Content | Sharing content created by attendees (photos, reviews) engages the community and adds authenticity. |
| Local Collaborations | Partnering with local influencers or businesses can introduce the show to a broader, local audience. |
| Event Announcements | Promoting upcoming shows, special performances, or guest appearances can attract new visitors interested in unique experiences. |
| Seasonal and Holiday Posts | Highlighting special holiday performances or themed shows can attract audiences looking for festive entertainment options. |
| Interactive Content | Polls, quizzes, and Q&A sessions engage followers and create a sense of community, encouraging them to attend the show. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Cast Stories | Featuring stories about the cast members creates a personal connection and humanizes the production. |
| Performance Tips | Sharing tips and tricks from the performers can engage followers who are theater enthusiasts and aspiring actors. |
| Sustainability Initiatives | Highlighting sustainable practices or eco-friendly set designs appeals to environmentally conscious consumers. |
| Audience Spotlights | Featuring regular attendees creates a sense of community and makes others want to be part of that group. |
| Contests and Giveaways | Running contests and giveaways can increase engagement and attract new followers, many of whom may convert into ticket buyers. |
Some shows make 5x more profit than you!
We have studied the strategies of the best shows in the world. Replicate them now!
How can show producers make great content on social media?
What to Prioritize
You probably know it already, but high-quality photos and videos of your show are essential.
People experience with their eyes first. Make sure the lighting is good, the stage looks captivating, and the performers are showcased at their best.
Also, post regularly to keep your audience engaged. It doesn’t have to be daily, but find a schedule that works for you and stick to it. We have prepared a free social media planner for you.
Of course, respond to comments and messages quickly. People appreciate interaction and it makes them feel valued. Don’t just be another “bland” account.
Show the real side of your show. Behind-the-scenes photos, performer stories, and audience shoutouts can create a personal connection with your audience.
If you want to keep your potential viewers excited, highlight any special performances, events, or seasonal shows. Make sure your followers know what’s new and exciting.
Finally, share positive reviews and testimonials. Social proof is powerful and can help attract new viewers.
What Doesn’t Matter as Much
Overly polished content does not really matter. Your posts don’t need to be perfect. Authenticity can be more engaging than highly produced content.
Also, don’t feel pressured to jump on every social media trend. Focus on what fits your show’s “image” and what your audience likes.
If you have a low budget to conduct marketing for your show, don’t immediately go for paid Ads. Organic reach can still be effective with good content and engagement. You will find tons of tactics and strategies in our strategy pack for show promoters.
How to Do It Fast and Efficient
First, spend a few hours once a week taking photos, recording videos, and drafting posts. This way, you’re not scrambling daily.
Use Scheduling Tools - tools like Buffer or Hootsuite can schedule posts in advance, saving you time.
Repurpose and use the same content across different platforms. A photo on Instagram can be a post on Facebook or a tweet on Twitter.
Encourage audience members to share their own photos and tag your show. This is what we call “User-Generated Content”. Reposting these can save you time and build community.
Use apps like Canva for quick and easy graphic design, or Lightroom for photo editing. These tools can make your content look professional with minimal effort.
Low-budget content ideas for shows on social media
Our team has curated a list of highly specific, low-budget content ideas tailored for shows, complete with practical tips to keep costs down and effectively use social media.
You might want to incorporate some of these ideas in the marketing plan of your show.
| Content Type | Tips to Make It More Affordable |
|---|---|
| Smartphone Rehearsal Clips | Use natural light by filming near windows during daytime rehearsals. Enhance videos with free apps like Snapseed or VSCO. |
| Audience Testimonials | Ask satisfied audience members to leave a quick video testimonial on their phone. Offer a small souvenir or discount on future tickets as a thank-you. |
| User-Generated Content | Encourage attendees to share their show experience by offering a monthly raffle for those who tag your show on Instagram. |
| DIY Behind-the-Scenes Videos | Film short, simple behind-the-scenes clips using a smartphone and a basic tripod. Use free editing software like iMovie or OpenShot. |
| Live Rehearsal Stories | Use Instagram Stories or Facebook Live to give a real-time look at your rehearsals or introduce the cast during breaks. |
| Show Highlights Posts | Design simple, eye-catching graphics for show highlights using free tools like Canva. Include a brief description and a captivating photo. |
| Cast Spotlights | Feature cast members with a casual photo and fun facts about them. Use your smartphone and a natural setting in the theater. |
| Simple Polls and Questions | Engage followers with free Instagram or Facebook polls about their favorite scenes or suggestions for future shows. |
| Local Event Promotions | Collaborate with local events by offering a small discount or coupon. Cross-promote each other's content to reach a wider audience. |
| Community Involvement Posts | Post photos and short stories about your participation in local charity events or partnerships with community organizations. |
| Audience Spotlights | Highlight loyal audience members with their favorite scenes. Take a quick photo and share a short story about their experience at your show. |
| Homemade Set Photos | Create attractive set designs using inexpensive items like props, costumes, and decorations from dollar stores. |
| Sustainability Tips | Share eco-friendly practices such as recycling set materials or using local suppliers. Create simple infographics with free tools like Canva. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Prep | Record short clips of the backstage prep work, such as costume fittings or set construction. Compile them into a quick video using free tools. |
| Simple Contests and Giveaways | Run social media contests where participants like, share, or tag friends to win free tickets. Use prizes that are cost-effective like a free program or a backstage tour. |
| Seasonal Show Posts | Highlight seasonal themes and special performances using natural light and your smartphone camera. Share the story behind the show to add interest. |
Copy the tactics of the best shows in the world!
There are shows that make way more money than you do. We have studied their tactics. Get them now!
Exceptionally creative and innovative content ideas specifically for shows
Investing in top-notch social media content for your show might be worth it because many other productions won't bother, giving you a chance to really stand out, grab people's attention, and build a loyal audience.
| Content Type | Why It Could Bring a LOT of Viewers |
|---|---|
| Behind-the-Scenes Footage | Sharing exclusive behind-the-scenes clips can give viewers a peek into the making of your show, creating a sense of intimacy and connection with the cast and crew. |
| Interactive 360° Set Tours | Offering virtual 360° tours of your set can provide a unique behind-the-scenes experience and entice people to watch the show to see how it all comes together. |
| Exclusive Sneak Peeks | Releasing limited-time sneak peeks or teasers of upcoming episodes can generate excitement and urgency, attracting new and repeat viewers. |
| Live Q&A Sessions | Hosting live Q&A sessions with the cast and crew can create a memorable experience and foster a sense of community among fans. |
| AR Character Interactions | Implementing augmented reality (AR) technology where fans can interact with 3D representations of characters can enhance the viewing experience and attract tech-savvy audiences. |
| Themed Viewing Parties | Organizing themed viewing parties, such as a costume night or a trivia contest, can provide a unique and immersive experience, attracting groups and special occasions. |
| Fan Art Contests | Hosting fan art contests can create viral moments, attracting creative fans and generating buzz around your show. |
| Collaborative Episodes | Partnering with other popular shows or influencers to create collaborative episodes can introduce your show to new audiences and create a buzz in the community. |
| Story-Driven Social Media Posts | Sharing in-depth stories about the characters, the inspiration behind the plot, or the personal journey of the creators can create an emotional connection with viewers. |
| Interactive Plot Choices | Allowing viewers to vote on plot choices via social media polls can make them feel involved and eager to see the outcomes they helped decide. |
| Eco-Friendly Initiatives | Launching and promoting eco-friendly initiatives, such as sustainable set designs or green production practices, can attract environmentally conscious viewers and media attention. |
| Pop-Up Viewing Events | Organizing pop-up viewing events in different locations or at local festivals can expand your reach and attract new viewers who may become regular fans. |
| Subscription-Based Bonus Content | Offering a subscription service where viewers receive monthly bonus content, such as behind-the-scenes footage or exclusive interviews, can create a loyal fan base. |
| Immersive Acting Workshops | Hosting workshops where fans can learn acting techniques from your cast can attract aspiring actors and create a sense of exclusivity. |
| Flash Mob Viewing Experiences | Organizing flash mob viewing events in unexpected locations can create viral content and attract adventurous viewers looking for unique experiences. |
Content that never works well for shows on social media
Don't waste your time and resources on these ideas. We've seen many show producers make these mistakes, and they won't help you stand out from the crowd or bring in new audiences for your show.
| Content Type | Why It Never Works for Shows | Do This Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Generic Stock Photos | They lack authenticity and can make the show appear unoriginal or untrustworthy. | Use real photos of your cast, crew, and behind-the-scenes moments to create a genuine connection with your audience. |
| Overly Promotional Posts | Constantly pushing promotions can feel spammy and turn off followers. | Mix in engaging content like behind-the-scenes stories, audience testimonials, and interactive posts to keep your audience interested. |
| Unrelated Content | Posting content that has nothing to do with the show confuses followers and dilutes your brand. | Keep your content focused on your show, cast, events, and related topics to maintain relevance and interest. |
| Low-Quality Videos | Poorly shot or edited videos can reflect badly on your show's quality and professionalism. | Invest in basic video equipment or hire a local videographer to produce high-quality videos that showcase your show positively. |
| Political or Controversial Posts | These can alienate parts of your audience and lead to negative backlash. | Stick to neutral, positive content that focuses on the show, community, and your unique offerings. |
| Too Many Hashtags | Overusing hashtags can look desperate and reduce engagement by making posts look cluttered. | Use a few relevant, targeted hashtags to increase visibility without overwhelming your audience. |
| Automated Replies and Messages | They can come off as impersonal and frustrate fans looking for genuine interaction. | Respond personally to comments and messages to show that you care about your audience and value their feedback. |
| Overly Staged Photos | Photos that look too perfect can seem inauthentic and less relatable. | Use natural lighting and casual settings to make your photos feel more genuine and inviting. |
| Constant Self-Promotion | Only talking about your show can bore followers and reduce engagement. | Share user-generated content, collaborate with local artists, and highlight community involvement to diversify your content. |
| Negative or Defensive Responses | Responding poorly to criticism can damage your reputation and discourage potential viewers. | Address negative feedback calmly and constructively, showing that you are willing to improve and value audience input. |
| Ignoring Social Media Trends | Being out of touch with current trends can make your show seem outdated and unappealing. | Stay updated with social media trends and incorporate them creatively into your content strategy to keep your audience engaged and excited. |
| Excessive Posting | Posting too frequently can overwhelm your followers and lead to unfollows. | Maintain a consistent but moderate posting schedule, ensuring each post adds value and keeps your audience looking forward to your updates. |
| Complex or Confusing Promotions | Promotions that are hard to understand can frustrate fans and deter participation. | Offer simple, clear, and straightforward promotions that are easy for fans to grasp and engage with. |
| Ignoring Comments and Messages | Not engaging with your audience can make them feel undervalued and reduce their loyalty. | Regularly respond to comments and messages to build a strong, interactive community around your show. |
Make your show more profitable
We have studied the strategies of the best shows in the world. All their tactics are explained in our pack!
Why social media can be a big pay-off for your show
We understand that as a show owner, you might feel hesitant about diving into social media marketing.
The world of social media can seem foreign and filled with confusing jargon. You might believe that it's more suited for big corporations rather than unique shows like yours.
The day-to-day demands of running a show are already overwhelming, leaving little time for additional tasks like social media.
It's common to think that social media marketing is an expensive endeavor, one that your tight profit margins can't support. Plus, the sheer number of social media platforms can lead to indecision and skepticism, especially if previous efforts haven't yielded the results you hoped for.
That's why we've created a "marketing pack" specifically tailored for show owners like you.
Our pack addresses all the issues you might face, offering simple, cost-effective strategies that don't require a marketing expert or a big budget for your show. These documents are straightforward and easy to understand, cutting through the jargon and focusing on what really works for shows on social media.
We provide clear, actionable steps for creating engaging posts, building a loyal following, and boosting your show's visibility online.
With our marketing pack, you can invest in your show's growth without feeling overwhelmed or uncertain.
Your show could make more money!
Most show producers don't know how to grow their business. Let us teach you the right strategies.
