The Press Release

Press Releases are...

• An information handout sent to the media.

• One page long, white paper, black ink.

• An announcement regarding something newsworthy. Something unique and interesting.

• An announcement that seeks media attention.

Press Releases are used to...

• Give information to the media.

• Get information to a large group of potential audience members.

• Showcase the interesting and unique.

A breakdown of a press release.

• The Title: Print PRESS RELEASE at the top of school letterhead.

• Release Date: Let the press know when they can use they information in the release. If they can start using it right away, write IMMEDIATE RELEASE.

• The What: Name of play and playwright, what are the must knows?

• The Headline: The headline should hook your reader and make them want to read on.

• The Why: Why would an audience want to come? What is interesting and unique? Add details about premieres, cast members, information about the play, the themes. Is there a quote from the director, or the playwright that can be used?

• The When: Dates of the show and most importantly the time the show starts.

• The Where: The name of the theatre, and the address.

• The Rest: Ticket prices and where they can be bought.

• Contact Information: The name, phone, fax, and email of someone the press can easily contact to talk about the show.

Just a reminder!

• Proofread your release so that all information is correct, especially the contact information.

• Do not use crazy fonts or draw hearts all over the page.

• A single graphic is permissible, but make sure it doesn't distract from the information.

• Print the release on white paper and put all information in a simple font such as Times Roman or Arial. NEVER use comic sans!

Press release example

• Cow Over the Moon