Due to the pandemic, the theatre world is still in flux – and that means directors and actors around the country are transforming the way live performances are experienced. 

If you’re in the midst of planning a spring show, don’t discount the perks of hybrid productions. The following are a few reasons why adding video-on-demand (VOD) and live-streaming options to your show are the keys to success.

Added Flexibility

Perhaps the biggest added value of VOD is the flexibility it brings to audiences. Maybe someone across the country is interested in viewing your show, but doesn’t have the means to get there. Or, in today’s uncertain climate, it’s likely someone might fall ill during show week and can’t attend in-person. There are some, even, that may prefer to watch the show from the comfort of their own homes just because. You give those potential audience members more options to experience your work.

From the perspective of the actors, crew and leadership, having a VOD option also lessens the pressure. While re-starts and line flubs shouldn’t happen during a live show, these common mishaps are less of a problem when you can stop the camera and start again. 

Lastly, the flexibility of a VOD option means no risk of video connectivity problems. Forget worrying about WiFi, sound issues or spotty quality while simultaneously putting on a show stopping performance. 

No matter which way you spin it, having online options to view your show allows room to breathe.

Economical Growth

Simply put, giving patrons the ability to view online – either through a paid livestream or a VOD format, means more ways to raise funds for your show. Most crucially during a global pandemic, having these alternatives gives creators insurance to be able to sell tickets in the event of  another wave of COVID outbreaks.

Additionally, the sky’s the limit when it comes to virtual capacity. No longer chained to the maximum number of guests allowed in your theater, presenting a show online gives you the ability to sell, sell, sell.

Accessibility

One of the biggest goals of theaters is reaching more people. With hybrid shows, you’ll be able to access viewers just about anywhere in the world – meaning more exposure for your theater, your people, and the great work you do. 

Hybrid performances will also help your theater appeal to younger audiences, who are more likely to buy a virtual ticket or view a show online. Getting a stronghold on younger audiences means a sturdy foundation for your company’s future.

Creativity

Finally, hybrid shows are here to stay because they push actors and directors to do what they love: think outside the box. With these types of performances, actors will have to focus not only on projecting to an in-person audience, but to people behind the screen. From the director’s standpoint, choosing VOD or livestreaming can be the ideal time to help your actors learn how to perform for the camera and connect with those not in the theater itself. 

Yes, it might be a bit more difficult, but when do creators shy away from a challenge? 

If you’re planning a hybrid production in the next few months, let On the Stage help with a demo to get the ball rolling.

 

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