Postshows

Postshows refer to events or activities that occur after a live performance, intended to extend the audience's engagement beyond the main show. They are organized by theaters, concert venues, and festival programmers and can be part of the original ticket package or offered as an optional add-on. Postshows may include discussions, Q&As, meet-and-greets, or short informal performances.

Common formats include post-show Q&As with cast and creative staff, backstage tours, or audience-led discussions. Some venues host after-parties or informal jam sessions. In music settings, artists may perform a short encore set. In cinema contexts, postshows can feature director introductions or filmmaker Q&As.

Logistical considerations include scheduling time after performances, staffing for crowd management, accessibility accommodations, and clear ticketing policies. Some postshows are included in the ticket price; others require separate admission. Venues may limit duration to protect performers' rest and comply with local regulations.

Postshows can deepen understanding and appreciation, promote engagement with creators, and provide networking opportunities. They can also lengthen visits and add costs, potentially excluding some audience members. Critics note that equity of access and reasonable options for attendance should guide program design.

Postshows vary by venue and by country, reflecting different performance traditions and audience expectations.