Performance, Production, or Show: Which Term To Use When

When discussing theatre, the terms performance, production, and show are often used interchangeably, but each has its own specific meaning. Knowing when to use each term can help avoid confusion and ensure clear communication in the theatre industry.

Performance

A performance is the actual execution of a play or musical in front of an audience. It refers to the live event that takes place on stage. Actors, musicians, and technicians all contribute to the performance, which is typically presented over a series of performances, often with a different audience each time.

Production

A production, on the other hand, refers to the entire process of putting on a play or musical, from the initial idea to the final performance. It encompasses everything from selecting the script and casting actors to designing the set and creating costumes. The production team works behind the scenes to ensure that everything runs smoothly during the performance.

Show

The term show is often used as a catch-all term to refer to both the performance and the production. It can be used interchangeably with the term performance, but it can also refer to the entire production as a whole. For example, a theatre company might refer to their latest show as a success if both the performance and the production aspects went well.

Using the Right Term

When discussing theatre, it is important to use the correct term to avoid confusion. For example, if someone is referring specifically to the live event that takes place on stage, they should use the term performance. If they are talking about the entire process of putting on a play or musical, they should use the term production.

Using the term show can be appropriate in certain contexts, such as when referring to the marketing of a production. However, it is best to be specific and use the appropriate term for the context at hand.