PRODUCTIONS ON A SHOE-STRING BUDGET
This article is for anyone who’s ever struggled to put on a production of a play or musical with very limited funds. Take it from someone who continues to do this with kids and teens – it’s amazing what you can do with little or no money!
Everyone would love to have access to a wonderful, modern theatre boasting exquisite lighting, phenomenal sound and professional technicians to add that element of professionalism to their production. More times than not, however, teachers, amateur groups and private troupes struggle to create productions without any of the assets of the professional theatre world.
But that doesn’t mean that the production can’t be professional.
The following ideas can cut or almost eliminate entirely the need for a large budget to produce your next production. This list is by no means exclusive. Just tap into your own creativity and you’ll be surprised at what you might come up with.
VENUES FOR DONATION
Don’t think you can afford to rent a proper theatre? Many churches have auditoriums in their basements (some with stages complete with wings). Although some churches do have a rental fee for using their facilities, not only is it usually much less than a theatre rental, often, it is available for donation or a percentage of box office.
If you are staging a small production and don’t have a large cast and elaborate sets, the smaller, intimate stage in a church basement might be just right for your show.
TICKETS
Making your own tickets on your computer saves money. Buy business card blanks at an office supply store and by using either the business card or label options in programs like Microsoft’s Works or Word or Correl’s Word Perfect, you can create professional looking tickets yourself.
Remember – your tickets don’t need to be fancy and have pictures on them. Buy plain white or beige business card blanks and enter the following information:
(Your group’s name here) PROUDLY PRESENTS
NAME OF PRODUCTION
DATE LOCATION TIMES TICKET PRICE
If you’re having multiple performances, list the times on the ticket and then simply circle the appropriate performance time upon selling the tickets. The same can be done if there is more than one ticket price (ie adult price and children’s price).
ADVERTISING
There are many “free” advertising opportunities in most communities – you just have to know where to look.
Check to see if your city’s public access cable channel has an announcement board that airs regularly or if there are any community programs where you could plug your upcoming production.
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