As performing arts organizations look ahead to the 2025-2026 season, balancing tradition and innovation is more important than ever. For many, that starts with rethinking how program books are created and delivered. A growing number of organizations are recognizing that a hybrid strategy—combining a reduced print run with a digital program—provides the flexibility, cost savings, and audience engagement necessary for long-term success.
At Onstage Publications, we’ve seen firsthand how this approach not only modernizes the program book experience but also helps organizations future-proof their operations and connect with audiences in new ways.
Why the Hybrid Approach Makes Sense
For years, many organizations have felt forced to choose between honoring tradition with printed program books or embracing digital innovation to meet modern audience expectations. But the truth is, you don’t have to choose—you can do both. A hybrid approach allows you to preserve the printed program book while expanding your reach and engagement through digital—all while saving thousands of dollars on printing costs and eliminating time-consuming, manual program book production tasks.
A hybrid approach allows you to:
- Preserve the tradition of a printed keepsake for traditionalist patrons.
- Reduce costs and waste by limiting print quantities and offsetting with digital content.
- Deliver programs instantly through frictionless text messaging—capturing patrons’ mobile numbers and unlocking powerful marketing capabilities for future ticket offers, event updates, and donation appeals.
- Publish a program for every performance, without worrying about minimum print runs or budget constraints.
One of the most overlooked benefits of this approach is how it allows you to begin strategically reducing your reliance on print over multiple seasons, without alienating your audience.
The Hidden Costs of Print-Only Models
If you’re still relying solely on printed program books, you’re likely spending more than you realize—not just in printing costs, but in:
- Staff time spent proofing, managing production, and handling logistics.
- Storage, shipping, and distribution costs.
- Waste and overprinting when programs become outdated or over-ordered.
Our clients have reported saving thousands of dollars and hundreds of hours by shifting to a hybrid model supported by our Managed Program Book Services.
Future-Proof Your Program Strategy: A Multi-Year Path
Every organization is at a different place in their program book journey. That’s why we developed a multi-year strategy designed to meet you where you are and help you evolve your program book publishing over time.
Whether you’re currently 100% print, dabbling in digital, or fully digital-ready, our team will work alongside you to:
- Wean your organization off expensive, print-heavy models.
- Implement digital program delivery gradually and seamlessly.
- Show you how to engage patrons with strategic text messaging—driving micro donations and increasing ticket sales through well-placed, timely communications.
- Ensure your patrons are part of the transition—without disruption.
This isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. It’s a customized, thoughtful process that helps you save money, reclaim valuable staff time, and ultimately engage your audience in more meaningful ways.
Seamless Execution with Managed Program Book Services
Our Managed Program Book Services make this entire transition effortless. From content gathering and design to delivery and digital engagement, we handle the heavy lifting while you stay focused on your performances and patrons.
You don’t have to navigate this shift alone. Wherever you are in your program book journey, we’ll show you how to do it better.
Looking Ahead to 2025-2026
The 2025-2026 season presents a unique opportunity to modernize your program strategy. A hybrid approach isn’t just a trend—it’s the future of audience engagement and operational efficiency.
Ready to start saving thousands of dollars and hundreds of staff hours? Let’s build a custom strategy for your organization. Get a custom quote today.
