How one director’s curiosity led to an interactive pre-show experience for her patrons.
Your playbill, now clickable.
We’ve all handed out stacks of paper programs on opening night, only to see them left behind on seats or scattered across the lobby. For years, that little booklet was the heartbeat of every performance — credits, bios, and sponsor shoutouts all neatly folded together.
But times have changed. Audiences are digital, budgets are tighter, and sustainability matters more than ever. That’s why many theatres, mine included, are reimagining what a playbill can be.
All the essentials were there — show credits, cast and crew bios, sponsor ads, and volunteer thank-yous — but suddenly, it felt fresh and alive. Patrons could click to learn more about our sponsors, revisit the show at home, and share the link with friends who couldn’t make it in person.
The best part? Updates are instant. No more reprinting because someone’s name was misspelled or a last-minute change came through. One quick edit, and every audience member sees the corrected version.
Going digital also opened new doors. We added behind-the-scenes photos, short video clips, and even shout-outs from family members. What used to be a printed keepsake is now an evolving story that keeps our audience connected long after the curtain falls.
“Paper or digital, it should work for people. Our Splashpage became a live playbill that patrons use before the curtain.”
And beyond the artistry, it’s practical. We save money on printing, reduce waste, and never run out of programs mid-show. Every guest scans a QR code in the lobby, taps into our online playbill, and experiences the production in a whole new way.
With Ludus, your playbill isn’t just printed, it’s alive. And that small shift can make a big impact on how your audience experiences your story.
When I discovered how easily a Ludus Splashpage could double as a digital playbill, it just made sense. In minutes, we turned what used to be a paper handout into a living, interactive experience that our audience could access right from their phones.
See how your theatre can create a digital playbill with Ludus.
