The programme from Ruy Blas and the Blase Roue

A programme or program^[1] is a booklet available for patrons attending a live events such as theatre performances, fêtes, sports events, etc. It is a printed leaflet outlining the parts of the event scheduled to take place, principal performers and background information. In the case of theatrical performances, the term playbill is also used. It may be provided free of charge by the event organisers or a charge may be levied.

[edit] Performing arts

At a theatre, opera, or ballet performance it is usually given at the door in the United States, while it is usually sold in the United Kingdom. The programme generally contains photos of the production, a cast list, biographies of the actors and production staff involved, the name of the theatre, background information and can contain advertisements. For example, the programme for the original production of Man of La Mancha contained articles by the staff about how the production was created. The first theatre programmes were issued in the mid-nineteenth century.^[2]

[edit] Sporting events

The programme from the Dartford F.C. from the opening of Watling Street ground

At a professional sporting event, programmes are often sold and it contains information about the teams competing. In the United Kingdom football programmes are issued by the home team for every home match and as a hobby are collected by supporters and football enthuiasts. Sports programmes can be highly collectible, with some rare football programmes selling for high prices: in the UK, for thousands of pounds.

[edit] Film

In the case of films, programmes are rarely provided, although they were frequently given out during the original roadshow engagements of big-screen spectaculars such as Ben-Hur (1959), King of Kings (1961), or How the West Was Won (1962). They served much the same function as those for live theater. Programmes for films made in special widescreen processes also explained how the widescreen effect was accomplished.

[edit] References

[edit] See also

• Sports memorabilia
• The phrase "get with the programme" (meaning, keep to a predetermined plan and do not raise side issues or deviate tangentially), and its humorous alternatives, "get with the brochure", "get with the leaflet", "get with the pamphlet", etc.

[edit] External links

• The Programme Covers Project
• A History of Playbills & Theatre Programs
• Souvenir programs in the University of Denver Penrose Library Souvenir Dance Programs Collection 1906 - 2001
• University of California's Guide to the Dance Program and Ephemera Collection, 1909-1987
• Theatre Programmes in the University of Bristol Theatre Collection
• 'Theatre programmes: don't you just love 'em?' The Guardian 23 June 2008