When money is tight, promoting events can be tough. But don’t worry. As artists ourselves, we understand this struggle firsthand, which is why we’ve got some smart marketing tips to help get the word out about your performing arts events without spending a lot.
1. Leverage The Power Of Social Media:
We get it, social media might not be everyone’s cup of tea. But it’s become an essential part of our world. Let’s focus on the bright side though: it’s a space where you can truly connect (and hey, most of it is free!).
Make sure to create engaging and contributive (not self-serving) content, share behind-the-scenes glimpses, capture your work in a high quality and entertaining way, and engage with your followers by responding to comments and messages promptly.
A strong social presence goes a long way!
2. Utilize Email Marketing:
Email marketing is free and it’s effective! And like most performing arts organizations, you’re probably not utilizing it enough – so make sure you’re sending information at least once a week! There is such a thing as someone on your list receiving too many emails, but spreading out communications and ensuring the relevance of the message to the sender will prevent that!
Remember, we’re sharing contributive content that adds to people’s lives, so it shouldn’t always be salesy, but it should always include a clear call-to-action.
3. Marketing Through Free Calendars:
Many community websites, local newspapers, and cultural centers offer free event calendars. This is just a simple, easy place to list your performing arts events that might draw some new attention. It’s an effortless way to ensure people who are actively looking for something to do in your area get to see your event.
Plus, did we mention it’s FREE?
4. Harness The Power Of Video Marketing:
It’s always a good idea to include some type of video in your content plans. You might panic when you hear video and instantly start seeing dollar signs, but it doesn’t have to be that way! In fact, social media videos can easily be shot on your phone camera and there are even a lot of great free software programs out there for editing, including CapCut and InShot.
It will only take a few minutes to create video teasers, behind-the-scenes footage, or interviews with performers to share on your website and social media platforms, but it will greatly expand your reach.
If you do record an interview, make sure you pick up a phone mic (I use this one, which is $80 from Amazon) so you can get higher quality audio – this is important!
5. Tap Into Local Media:
Local media outlets are another great way to help you reach a broader audience without breaking the bank. Try developing relationships with journalists and writers who cover arts and culture events in your area to see if you can get some extra press.
Craft compelling press releases highlighting the unique aspects of your event, such as collaborations, renowned performers, or social impact initiatives.
Remember to pitch different stories to different media outlets and always be prepared for interviews!
Pro Tip: Offer journalists complimentary tickets to experience your performing arts events firsthand.
Recap: How To Market Performing Arts Events On A Tight Budget
Promoting your event on a modest budget might feel like an art in itself, but with creativity and strategic thinking, it’s entirely achievable. By putting the tips listed above to good use, you will be amazed by how much you can accomplish and how far you can reach as an organization.
Remember, a limited budget doesn’t have to mean limiting your marketing efforts!
We have been in your shoes and we have lots of tips and tricks that we have learned along the way!
To learn more, click the button below to chat with us!