1. Playbills and Posters: Theatres would print and distribute playbills or posters advertising their upcoming performances. These playbills would contain information such as the title of the play, cast members, dates and times of performances, and the name of the theatre where it would be held. These playbills were often distributed in public places like coffeehouses, taverns, and street corners, or even delivered to homes.
2. Newspaper Advertisements: Newspapers were a common source of information for Londoners, and theatres often placed advertisements in these newspapers to announce their upcoming shows. These advertisements would include similar details as playbills, providing the necessary information about the performances and the theatre's location.
3. Word of Mouth: In a close-knit community like London, word-of-mouth recommendations also played a significant role in spreading information about upcoming theatre productions. People who had seen a particularly enjoyable performance or had heard positive reviews from others would spread the news, generating buzz and interest among potential attendees.
4. Tickets and Box Office: Individuals who wanted to attend a specific performance could purchase tickets in advance at the theatre's box office. The box office would provide information about the available shows and their respective times.
5. Public Announcements: In some cases, theatres might hire individuals to make public announcements or distribute flyers in busy areas, informing passersby about upcoming performances and the location of the theatre.
It's worth noting that the frequency of these announcements and the extent of information provided might have varied depending on the era and the specific circumstances of the time.