Handbills were one of the most common ways to advertise plays in 1600. These small, printed sheets of paper were posted in public places, such as on walls, doors, and posts. They typically included the title of the play, the date and time of the performance, the name of the theater, and the price of admission. Handbills could be simple text advertisements or they could include illustrations or artwork to attract attention.
Playbills
Playbills were similar to handbills but were larger and often included more detailed information about the play, such as the names of the actors, the plot, and any special effects that would be used. Playbills were often sold at the theater or by street vendors.
Town criers
Town criers were people who were hired to walk through the streets and announce upcoming events, such as plays. They would use a loud voice to attract attention and would often give a brief description of the play, including the title, date, time, and location.
Word of mouth
Word of mouth was also an important form of advertising for plays in 1600. People who had seen a play would tell their friends and family about it, which could generate a lot of interest.
Other forms of advertising
Other forms of advertising that were sometimes used to promote plays in 1600 included:
- Announcements from the pulpit: Preachers would sometimes announce upcoming plays from the pulpit, as a way to encourage their parishioners to attend.
- Advertisements in newspapers and newsletters: Newspapers and newsletters that were published at the time sometimes included advertisements for upcoming plays.
- Street performances: Actors or theater companies would sometimes perform short scenes or plays in the street, as a way to advertise their upcoming productions.