Show: marketing strategy, tactics and ideas [excel template]
Show: marketing strategy, tactics and ideas [excel template]

Copy the best shows!

There are show producers that make way more profit than you. We have analyzed their tactics. Get them now!

You're a show producer. Imagine this: your venue is filled with an enthusiastic audience, all because you perfected your marketing approach. Sounds thrilling, doesn't it?

We've observed many producers facing challenges when it comes to crafting a marketing strategy that effectively captures and engages their target audience.

That's why we've created a free marketing plan and strategy template, specifically designed for show producers. This resource will walk you through the essential steps to formulate a robust marketing plan, ensuring you connect with your audience and meet your production goals.

Moreover, if you're eager to elevate your show's marketing with tried-and-true methods and strategies, be sure to explore our collection of marketing strategies and tactics for show producers.

Continue reading to learn how to utilize this tool to boost your show's marketing initiatives and attract more viewers to your performances.

Get the marketing planner tailored for shows

The best show producers plan their whole marketing strategy. You can do the same now.

marketing planner for a show

Examples of marketing strategies for a show

We could easily list hundreds of marketing tactics for your show. However, we know you need actions that are practical and tailored to specific use cases.

Marketing strategies for a show with a low budget

Great news for showrunners! You can attract a fresh audience without breaking your show's budget.

Here, we'll briefly cover fundamental marketing strategies tailored for the entertainment industry. For a detailed action plan and practical tips on implementing these strategies cost-effectively, check out our strategy guide for show producers aiming to expand their audience.

Tactic for Your Show Budget Range How to Make It Even More Budget-Friendly
Social Media Promotion $0 - $100/month Boost your show's visibility by sharing sneak peeks, cast interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage. Encourage your audience to post about their experience and tag your show's page.
Email Marketing $0 - $50/month Leverage free email marketing tools to send updates about upcoming shows, special performances, and exclusive content. Gather emails through online ticket bookings and sign-ups on your website.
Loyalty Programs $50 - $200/month Create a rewards system where attendees can earn points towards discounted tickets or exclusive access to events. Consider using budget-friendly digital loyalty solutions.
Partnerships with Local Businesses $0 - $100 Collaborate with local businesses for cross-promotions. For example, ticket holders could receive discounts at nearby cafes or shops. Host joint events to increase foot traffic.
Hosting Community Events $100 - $500 Invite local talent or speakers to participate in your show, creating themed nights or special community-focused performances. Share event hosting costs with community partners.
Google My Business Listing $0 Ensure your Google My Business profile is up-to-date with show times, special events, and photos. Encourage attendees to leave reviews and share their experiences online.
Influencer Outreach $100 - $500 Invite local influencers to attend your show for free in return for social media coverage. Organize special media nights to generate buzz and attract a broader audience.
SEO for Show Website $0 - $200/month Optimize your website content with relevant keywords such as “live shows in [city]” or “best theatre performances”. Keep your content fresh with regular updates and blog posts about the performing arts.
Online Contests and Giveaways $50 - $200 Engage your audience with social media contests where they can win free tickets or backstage passes. Use low-cost rewards like show merchandise to encourage participation.
Local SEO & Directory Listings $0 - $100 List your show on local event directories and arts calendars. Ensure your show’s name, location, and contact details are consistent across all platforms to improve local search visibility.
Customer Feedback and Referral Programs $0 - $100 Offer discounts or special seating for patrons who refer new attendees. Implement a feedback system on your website or via email to gather audience insights and improve future shows.
DIY Professional-Quality Photos $0 - $50 Utilize high-quality smartphone cameras to capture compelling photos of your performances. Share these images on social media and your website to draw in a larger audience.

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!

marketing strategy for a show

Marketing strategies for your show if you have limited time

Exciting news for show producers who are short on time: you don't have to compromise your promotional efforts because of a busy schedule.

For a comprehensive action plan and tips to implement these strategies efficiently and effectively, explore our specialized strategy pack designed for busy show producers looking to boost their audience.

Tactic Time to Spend Each Week Tips to Maximize Time and Efficiency
Weekly Social Media Themes 2 hours Set themes for each day (e.g., #MagicMonday, #TheaterThursday) to streamline content creation and target specific audience interests. Schedule posts in advance using social media tools.
Interactive Instagram Stories 1 hour Leverage Instagram's features (polls, questions, countdowns) to create engaging stories that prompt audience interaction. Showcase sneak peeks and exclusive backstage moments.
Updates on Google My Business 30 minutes Regularly post upcoming shows or special events on your Google My Business profile to enhance visibility and attract local attendees. Use compelling images to capture interest.
Collaborations with Entertainment Influencers 2 hours Identify and connect with local entertainment influencers for a post or story feature; offer them exclusive show previews in return for their coverage. Monitor engagement to gauge impact.
Email Marketing with Exclusive Invites 1 hour Utilize email templates and segment your audience to send personalized invites, minimizing the time needed to craft impactful messages. Highlight special performances and member-only events.
Partnerships with Local Venues 2 hours Schedule monthly meetings to organize joint promotional activities or events, sharing marketing efforts and broadening your audience reach. Develop co-promotions that benefit all involved.
Audience Feedback Rewards 1 hour Implement a system where attendees receive a discount or exclusive merchandise for sharing their experience online with a specific hashtag. Encourage reviews on popular platforms like Yelp and Google Reviews.
Local SEO Optimization 2 hours Ensure your website and content are optimized for local search terms and that your NAP (Name, Address, Phone) listings are consistent across online directories. Utilize local event listings and review sites.
Limited-Time Ticket Promotions on Social Media 1 hour Announce time-sensitive ticket discounts on social media to create urgency and drive immediate bookings. Employ eye-catching graphics and clear calls-to-action.
Engagement in Community Events 3 hours Identify local events where you can feature or sponsor, using the event's marketing reach to expose your show to potential new audiences. Offer exclusive previews or special ticket prices to attendees.

Marketing strategies for your show focused on social media

For show producers aiming to maximize social media impact: you can significantly boost your online visibility and audience engagement with effective strategies tailored for the entertainment industry.

Social Media Tactic How to Execute How to Make It Better
Instagram User-Generated Content Encourage attendees to share their experience by tagging your show or using a specific hashtag. Feature attendee posts on your profile, offer rewards for the best photo each month, and actively engage with these posts to increase interaction.
Facebook Live Video Events Stream live videos of backstage preparations, rehearsals, or Q&A sessions with the cast and crew. Promote these live events in advance, engage with viewers during the broadcast, and include a call-to-action to buy tickets or merchandise.
Twitter Time-sensitive Promotions Announce flash promotions or limited-time discounts available only to your followers or the first few to respond to a tweet. Use compelling visuals and hashtags to enhance visibility and retweet feedback from attendees who took advantage of the promotions.
TikTok Show Challenge Create a fun challenge related to your show, inviting fans to recreate a scene or dance and share it on TikTok. Collaborate with TikTok influencers to launch the challenge, offer prizes for the best videos, and share a compilation of creative fan submissions.
Instagram Story Highlights for Show Updates and Merch Utilize Instagram Stories to keep your followers informed about show updates, new episodes, or exclusive merchandise, and save them as Highlights. Organize Highlights by category (e.g., episode recaps, merchandise) and regularly refresh visuals to keep content engaging.
Facebook Viewer Reviews and Ratings Encourage viewers to leave reviews and ratings on your Facebook page after watching the show. Respond to all reviews, both positive and negative, promptly and professionally to demonstrate that you value viewer feedback.
Twitter Engage in Local Conversations Use Twitter to participate in discussions about local events or pop culture, linking back to how your show relates or contributes. Employ relevant hashtags and tag other local businesses or cultural events to expand your reach and engagement.
TikTok Behind-the-Scenes Content Share short, engaging clips that provide a peek into the production process, introduce cast and crew, or highlight set design. Encourage interaction by asking viewers to choose their favorite character or to suggest plot ideas for future episodes.

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!

marketing strategy for a show

Marketing strategies for a show that work with a significant budget

Indeed, there are efficient and sophisticated marketing tactics that promise a strong return on investment for those prepared to allocate a significant budget.

For a detailed roadmap and expert advice on deploying these high-impact strategies effectively and maximizing your marketing spend, don't miss out on our exclusive strategy pack designed for show producers looking to attract larger audiences and enhance their performances.

Tactic Monthly Budget Range (USD) How to Make It Even Better
Professional Video Production for Social Media $2,000 - $5,000 Enhance videos with storytelling that showcases your show's unique elements, cast, and behind-the-scenes moments. Distribute across multiple platforms and consider paid promotion to extend reach.
Influencer Marketing Campaigns $5,000 - $20,000 Partner with influencers who align with your show's theme and have an engaged audience. Plan a series of posts for a broader campaign rather than one-off posts to maintain audience interest.
High-End Photography for Promotional Materials $1,000 - $3,000 Use these photos across all your marketing materials and social media. Refresh the photos seasonally to reflect new shows or cast changes and keep the content engaging.
Paid Social Media Advertising $2,000 - $10,000 Segment your target audience for more personalized ads, use A/B testing for ad creatives, and retarget visitors who have interacted with your website or social media.
Partnership with Ticketing Platforms for Featured Listings $1,000 - $5,000 Negotiate better placement or featured spots during peak booking times. Use data from these platforms to understand audience preferences and tailor your offerings.
Hosting High-Profile Events or Special Performances $10,000 - $50,000 Collaborate with renowned performers or celebrities to create buzz. Ensure media coverage and engage with attendees through social media to amplify the event's reach.
Creating an Interactive, High-Quality Website with SEO $5,000 - $15,000 Incorporate a blog with high-quality content about the show, cast interviews, and behind-the-scenes stories to improve SEO. Ensure the site is mobile-friendly and includes an online ticketing system.

Innovative and creative marketing strategies for your show

For show producers eager to captivate audiences and stand out in the entertainment industry, adopting innovative, creative, and unique marketing strategies can be a game-changer.

Tactic Description
Augmented Reality Previews Implement an augmented reality (AR) app that allows potential audience members to see realistic 3D previews of key scenes or characters when they scan a QR code with their smartphones. This interactive experience can help build excitement and anticipation for the show.
Virtual Behind-the-Scenes Tours Offer virtual behind-the-scenes tours led by the show's cast and crew, where participants can get an insider's look at the production process. This can include live Q&A sessions and downloadable content, creating a new revenue stream and increasing fan engagement.
Collaborative Soundtrack Create a collaborative playlist on a music streaming service where fans can add their favorite songs that they feel match the show's theme. This playlist can be played during intermissions or pre-show, creating a personalized and interactive atmosphere. Promote the playlist through social media and encourage fans to contribute, enhancing community engagement.
Pop-Up Performances in Unique Locations Host pop-up performances in unique locations such as parks, historic sites, or urban landmarks. These events can offer exclusive scenes or thematic experiences that align with the location, creating buzz and offering memorable experiences that audiences will share.
Interactive Storytelling Introduce interactive storytelling elements where the audience can influence the plot or character decisions through live voting or social media. These unique experiences can become social media sensations, drawing adventurous theatergoers.
Traveling Showcases Launch a traveling showcase that visits different neighborhoods or cities, offering a taste of the show's highlights. Use social media to announce locations and create a scavenger hunt or reward system for followers who attend multiple showcases.
Interactive Social Media Challenges Create social media challenges that encourage users to participate in themed acting challenges, share their experiences, or engage in photo contests with the show's props or costumes. Offer incentives such as discounted tickets or exclusive merchandise for the best entries.
QR Code Programs Use QR codes on programs or tickets that lead to exclusive content such as behind-the-scenes videos, messages from the cast, or forms to sign up for special events and discounts, merging technology with the theater experience in a novel way.
Themed Show Nights Host themed show nights where the entire venue transforms to reflect different genres, historical periods, or pop culture phenomena. This can include themed performances, decorations, and staff costumes, encouraging audiences to dress up and fully immerse themselves in the experience.
Show Scavenger Hunts Organize a scavenger hunt within the venue or spanning across multiple locations, with clues related to the show's plot, characters, or production history. Participants can win prizes ranging from discounted tickets to exclusive backstage passes, engaging them in a fun and interactive way.

Your show could make more money!

Most show producers don't know how to grow their business. Let us teach you the right strategies.

social media strategy for a show

Do you really need a strong marketing strategy for your show?

Looking to boost ticket sales and audience engagement? Crafting a robust marketing strategy for your show is essential, and it goes beyond mere buzzwords or abstract ideas.

At its core, a marketing strategy is your blueprint for capturing the attention of potential attendees and converting them into loyal fans. The objective is to enhance the visibility of your show, set it apart from the competition, and entice people to experience your performance.

When we reached out for feedback, many show producers questioned if a marketing strategy was truly necessary.

Yes - it's essential.

In an industry brimming with entertainment options, standing out is crucial. Without a marketing strategy, your show might remain an undiscovered gem, which isn't ideal for your box office numbers. Effective marketing places your show in the spotlight, draws in new audiences, and ensures repeat visits.

You don’t need to spend countless hours or hire a marketing expert

You might say you've never delved into marketing before. That’s okay.

You don’t need to get bogged down in complex marketing theories or hire a "marketing guru." While professional assistance can be beneficial, it's not absolutely necessary, especially when you're just starting or working within a limited budget.

Many facets of marketing, especially in today's digital landscape, can be handled effectively with a bit of research, creativity, and commitment.

Platforms like social media are potent tools for directly engaging with your audience, showcasing behind-the-scenes peeks, sharing audience reviews, and promoting special offers.

However, a common challenge you might encounter when exploring marketing or social media as a show producer is feeling overwhelmed by the vast array of platforms and tools available, each with its unique best practices and algorithms.

It can be daunting to determine where to begin, what content to produce, and how to effectively connect with your audience while managing a busy production schedule.

We understand these obstacles. That's why we've developed a strategy pack for show producers. It contains all the essentials you need, simplified for easy comprehension and immediate implementation. Dive in, and you could start seeing an increase in audience numbers every week.

You don’t need a big budget

You might be wondering how much shows typically invest in marketing. Actually, it varies significantly based on the scale, location, and ambition of the production.

From our observations, we recommend dedicating about 3-6% of your total revenue to marketing.

For smaller, independent productions, the budget might be on the lower end, perhaps a few hundred dollars a month, focusing on cost-effective strategies like social media, word-of-mouth, and community engagement. Conversely, larger or more elaborate productions might allocate thousands to comprehensive campaigns, professional videography, and targeted online advertisements.

There are also several marketing tactics for shows on a tight budget. Try to make your show a hit online, encourage your audience to leave positive reviews, leverage local media, and engage with your community through events or collaborations.

Being creative and authentic matters more than hefty spending. Share what happens backstage, introduce your cast and crew, or reveal how you set up a scene. These actions don't cost much but can be highly effective. Need some inspiration? We've prepared a list of content ideas for social media, tailored to shows, all ready for you to use!

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!

marketing strategy for a show

What should you prioritize when promoting your show?

As a show producer, understanding where to direct your marketing efforts is essential to attract the right audience and enhance your show's success.

Target the Right Audience, Not Everyone

Every show has its unique theme, cast, and ambiance, which naturally attracts certain audience segments. It's crucial to focus your marketing on these groups to ensure the effectiveness of your efforts.

When we analyzed the entertainment industry and developed our specialized marketing strategy pack for shows, we noticed many producers were misdirecting their budgets on broad, ineffective campaigns.

Consider the difference between broadcasting a generic advertisement to everyone and using targeted ads that appeal directly to fans of specific genres or theatrical performances. The latter strategy is like using the right bait for the fish you want to catch, ensuring your marketing resources attract attendees who are genuinely interested in your production.

For example, a classical theater production might waste resources if it uses flashy, pop-culture-heavy social media campaigns that don't resonate with its audience, who may prefer more traditional, sophisticated marketing approaches.

Similarly, a modern dance show advertising in conservative, print-based media might not reach its ideal tech-savvy audience who engages more with dynamic digital content.

This misalignment between marketing strategies and target audiences can lead to wasted resources and poor audience turnout.

Generic Marketing Won't Cut It: Tailor Your Approach

General marketing tactics can serve as a foundation, but they often fall short without adjustments specific to the entertainment industry. Context is key. Strategies that work for retail or services might not engage an audience looking for a cultural or entertainment experience.

Each sector addresses different consumer needs, operates under different conditions, and engages its audience in unique ways. For instance, while retail might focus on product features and deals, a show must captivate potential attendees with the allure of its narrative, the talent of its performers, and the overall entertainment value.

That's why we crafted a marketing strategy pack specifically for shows.

Apply Practical Marketing Wisdom

What works for shows? It's all about creating and promoting experiences that resonate with the identity of your production.

Social media is an invaluable tool here, enabling you to highlight scenes, cast interviews, and sneak peeks through engaging posts and stories.

Interacting with your audience by responding to comments, sharing backstage moments, and showcasing audience reviews can personalize the experience and build anticipation.

It's not merely about frequent posting, but about crafting content that reflects the interests and expectations of your target audience.

Collaborations with influencers, local celebrities, or other cultural events can also be highly effective. These partnerships help you reach audiences who trust these influencers and are likely to be interested in similar entertainment options.

Lastly, ensure your show is easy to find online. Good SEO practices are crucial. We're here to assist with an SEO checklist specifically designed for shows. Take advantage of it!

Where to get the best marketing strategies for your show?

We understand that diving into marketing for your show might feel like entering an entirely different stage, especially when you're already spinning plates with countless other tasks.

Perhaps the whole realm of marketing seems a bit foreign, filled with complex terms and intricate strategies. Or maybe you're concerned about the costs and time commitment, given your already tight schedule.

And it's completely normal if you've thought, "Hey, my show is fantastic, isn't that enough?" That's a common sentiment, particularly when you're caught up in the daily grind of production, and perhaps past marketing attempts haven't quite hit the mark.

But here's the good news: we've crafted something just for you - a strategy pack tailored specifically for show producers.

This pack is designed to make marketing straightforward and manageable. We've cut through the jargon and simplified the marketing steps into something clear and actionable. Concerned about time and budget? Our strategies are cost-effective and won't demand hours you can't spare. These tools are meant to seamlessly integrate into the hectic life of a show producer, focusing on practical, impactful measures.

Moreover, we've included guidance on how to navigate the digital landscape at a pace that suits you, ensuring you never feel outpaced. Our aim is to help you view marketing not as an overwhelming chore but as an enjoyable, rewarding part of your business.

Some shows make 5x more profit than you!

We have studied the strategies of the best shows in the world. Replicate them now!

marketing strategy for a show
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