1. Playbills: Playbills or "Bills" were printed and distributed in advance of performances. These bills typically included the title of the play, the date and time of the performance, the names of the actors involved, and sometimes a brief synopsis or list of characters. They were often handed out by apprentices or posted in public places like taverns or markets.
2. Banners and posters: Banners and posters were displayed outside the Globe Theatre and in various parts of London. These visual advertisements featured the play's title, important characters, and performance details. They were designed to catch people's attention as they passed by, creating anticipation for the upcoming production.
3. Criers and street performers: It was common for criers or street performers to parade through the streets, announcing upcoming plays and performances. They would use drums or other instruments to attract attention and then proclaim the details of the play, including its title, venue, and important features.
4. Word of mouth: The popularity of plays and performances often spread through word of mouth. Friends, neighbors, and patrons who had attended a play would share their experiences and recommendations, generating excitement and encouraging others to attend future shows.
5. Prologues and epilogues: Some plays began with a prologue, a short introductory speech that provided information about the play itself, its context, or its purpose. Similarly, epilogues were concluding speeches that often thanked the audience for their attendance and encouraged them to return for future performances. These speeches could also contain announcements or hints about upcoming plays.
By using a combination of these methods, theatre companies like The Lord Chamberlain's Men, which included William Shakespeare, were able to effectively promote their plays and attract a diverse audience to the Globe Theatre.