The Speaker Indicates That The Play Will Include: Complete Guide

Ever walked into a theater and heard the announcer say, “Tonight’s performance will include a surprise musical number,” only to wonder what that really means?

You’re not alone. And those brief cues are more than polite filler—they’re a tiny piece of a much larger communication puzzle that shapes audience expectations, sets the mood, and even protects the production from legal hiccups. In practice, the way a speaker indicates that a play will include something can make or break the whole experience That's the part that actually makes a difference..

Below we’ll unpack the whole shebang: what those announcements are, why they matter, how they’re crafted, the pitfalls most producers stumble into, and concrete tips you can use whether you’re the house manager, a director, or just a theater‑goer who wants to read between the lines Took long enough..

What Is “The Speaker Indicates That the Play Will Include”

When we talk about the speaker in a theater context, we usually mean the person (or recorded voice) delivering pre‑show announcements: the house manager, the front‑of‑house PA operator, or a recorded intro. Think about it: their job isn’t just to list the title and start time. They also flag any additional elements that will appear during the performance—special effects, audience participation, musical interludes, or even content warnings Worth knowing..

Think of it as a micro‑roadmap. Instead of saying, “The play is Hamlet,” they might say, “Tonight’s Hamlet will include a live harp solo and a brief interactive scene where the audience helps decide Ophelia’s fate.” Those extra bits are the inclusions the speaker points out.

The Different Types of Inclusions

• Artistic additions – songs, dance numbers, multimedia projections.
• Technical features – fog, strobe lights, pyrotechnics.
• Interactive moments – audience voting, on‑stage Q&A.
• Content advisories – nudity, strong language, intense themes.

Each of these categories changes how the audience prepares mentally and physically. That’s why the phrasing matters.

Why It Matters / Why People Care

Sets Expectations

If you walk in expecting a straight‑play Shakespeare and the speaker says, “…includes a modern rap battle,” you either get excited or feel blindsided. Clear expectations keep people from leaving early or, worse, feeling cheated.

Legal & Safety Reasons

Many venues are required by law to disclose certain elements—like fireworks or loud noises—so that people with health concerns can opt out. A vague announcement could land the theater in hot water.

Marketing Edge

A well‑crafted inclusion line can be a hook. “Tonight’s The Crucible will include a live 1920s jazz band” turns a standard production into a unique event, prompting ticket sales from people who might otherwise skip it No workaround needed..

Audience Trust

When the speaker consistently delivers accurate, honest info, the audience learns to trust the house. Trust translates into repeat business, better reviews, and a stronger community vibe.

How It Works (or How to Do It)

Below is the step‑by‑step workflow most professional houses follow, from brainstorming the inclusion to the final mic‑check.

1. Identify the Inclusion Early

• Creative team flag – The director, composer, or technical director notes any non‑standard element during rehearsals.
• Safety review – The production manager checks whether the element triggers any legal or health concerns.
• Marketing alignment – The PR team decides if the inclusion is a selling point.

2. Draft the Announcement Script

A solid script hits three goals: clarity, brevity, and tone Still holds up..

“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to tonight’s performance of *The Tempest*. This production will include a live 12‑piece orchestra and a brief interactive scene where you’ll help choose the fate of Caliban. We ask that you keep your mobile devices on silent for the duration of the show. Enjoy the magic!”

Notice the pattern:

1. Greeting – Warm, inclusive.
2. Title – Re‑states the play.
3. Inclusion list – Specific, no jargon.
4. Call to action – Simple request (e.g., silence phones).
5. Closing – Positive vibe.

3. Choose the Right Voice

• Live vs. recorded – Live delivery feels spontaneous; recordings guarantee consistency.
• Tone – Formal for classical productions, conversational for experimental shows.
• Accent & pacing – Speak clearly, avoid regional slang unless it fits the show’s theme.

4. Insert Timing Cues

The announcement usually happens 15‑20 minutes before doors open and repeats once just before the curtain rises. Some houses add a quick reminder after intermission if the inclusion is a surprise element that could affect audience behavior Turns out it matters..

5. Run a Sound Check

• Mic placement – Ensure the speaker’s voice reaches every balcony without echo.
• Volume level – Aim for a comfortable 65‑70 dB; not too soft to be missed, not so loud it startles.
• Backup – Have a second mic or a pre‑recorded file ready in case of technical failure.

6. Collect Real‑Time Feedback

After the show, staff can ask audience members:

• “Did you notice the live harp? Was the warning clear enough?”
• “Did the inclusion enhance your experience?”

That feedback loops back into the next season’s script revisions.

Common Mistakes / What Most People Get Wrong

Over‑loading the Announcement

“Tonight’s Macbeth will include a live orchestra, a fog machine, a surprise cameo by a celebrity, a 10‑minute dance break, and a post‑show Q&A.The audience’s brain fizzles out before the curtain even rises. ”
Result? Keep it to two or three key points It's one of those things that adds up..

Using Vague Language

“...Strobe lights? And ”
What are “special effects”? Fog? That said, will include some special effects. The audience can’t prepare, and the staff can’t enforce safety protocols.

Ignoring Accessibility

Skipping a heads‑up about loud noises or flashing lights can be dangerous for people with sensory sensitivities. Always pair technical inclusions with a brief accessibility note.

Forgetting the Legal Disclaimer

If the inclusion involves alcohol service, smoking, or anything that could trigger local ordinances, you need to state it explicitly: “…includes a brief wine‑tasting segment, participants must be 21 or older.”

Inconsistent Delivery

One night the house manager says “Tonight’s Othello will include a live jazz band,” the next night the recorded voice says nothing. Inconsistency erodes trust faster than any bad review.

Practical Tips / What Actually Works

1. Write the script first, record last. Draft on paper, get sign‑off from the director and safety officer, then record. This avoids last‑minute rewrites that sound rushed.

2. Use the “three‑word rule.” Each inclusion should be describable in three words or fewer: “live harp solo,” “interactive voting,” “fog effect.” That keeps it punchy.

3. Add a tiny teaser. “…includes a live harp solo that will echo through the castle walls.” A hint of drama makes the line memorable without giving away the whole plot Small thing, real impact..

4. Test with a small audience. Run the announcement during a dress rehearsal and ask a handful of volunteers if it was clear. Their fresh ears catch what the crew misses The details matter here..

5. Create a quick‑reference sheet for front‑of‑house staff. List every inclusion, the exact wording, and any required audience actions. That sheet is gold when a substitute steps in.

6. put to work social media. Post a short video of the speaker’s announcement a day before the show. It builds hype and gives people a chance to ask questions early.

7. Stay flexible. If a technical glitch disables a planned inclusion, have a backup line ready: “Unfortunately, tonight’s fog effect is unavailable, but we’ve added an extended monologue in its place.”

FAQ

Q: Do I have to announce every musical number?
A: No. Only non‑standard musical elements—like a live band that isn’t part of the original score—need a heads‑up. Regular orchestral accompaniment is assumed.

Q: How far in advance should I inform the audience about a potentially disturbing inclusion?
A: At least 24 hours before the performance, via email or ticketing platform, and then repeat it in the pre‑show announcement.

Q: Can I use humor in the announcement?
A: Absolutely, as long as it doesn’t downplay safety warnings. A light joke about a “tiny surprise dragon” works if the dragon is a harmless prop No workaround needed..

Q: What if the inclusion changes last minute?
A: Update the script immediately, inform all staff, and, if possible, make a brief live correction before the audience is seated.

Q: Is a recorded voice acceptable for all venues?
A: Most venues accept recordings, but historic theaters often prefer a live voice for authenticity. Check your house policy.

And that’s it. The next time you hear a house manager say, “Tonight’s production will include a live jazz trio,” you’ll know there’s a whole backstage process behind those three words. Those tiny cues shape the entire theater experience—setting expectations, keeping people safe, and adding that extra sparkle that turns a regular night out into something memorable.

So the next time you step into a lobby, listen closely. You might just catch the secret ingredient that makes the show you’re about to see truly special. Enjoy the performance!

8. Keep the script living, not static

Even after the opening night, the inclusion script should stay on the radar. Here’s a quick checklist for the weeks that follow:

Treating the script as a living document prevents the dreaded “we forgot to tell the audience about the sudden flash‑bang” scenario that can lead to complaints, refunds, or—worst of all—injuries.

9. Use the “What‑If” board for unexpected inclusions

Sometimes a surprise element is added on the fly—think an impromptu cameo by a local celebrity or a last‑minute weather‑related effect. A small whiteboard placed near the stage manager’s desk can serve as a “what‑if” hub:

1. Write the new inclusion (e.g., “Live‑streamed drone fly‑by at curtain call”).
2. Assign a responsible person (usually the tech lead).
3. Draft a one‑sentence announcement on the spot.
4. Get a quick sign‑off from the director or producer.

Because the board is visible to the entire crew, nobody is left guessing, and the front‑of‑house team can add the line to the next intermission announcement without scrambling.

10. Document the impact for future productions

After the run closes, gather the data:

• Audience recall: Did post‑show surveys indicate that people remembered the announced inclusion?
• Safety incidents: Were there any near‑misses that could have been avoided with a clearer notice?
• Operational smoothness: Did the crew report any bottlenecks caused by the inclusion?

Summarize the findings in a short “Inclusion Report” and store it in the venue’s knowledge base. Future productions will thank you for the hindsight.

The Bottom Line

Announcing non‑standard musical or sensory elements isn’t a bureaucratic afterthought—it’s a cornerstone of a professional, audience‑centric theater experience. By:

1. Identifying every deviation from the expected soundscape,
2. Writing a concise, jargon‑free line,
3. Testing it with a fresh set of ears,
4. Equipping staff with a quick‑reference sheet,
5. Amplifying the message through social channels, and
6. Staying agile when things change,

you turn a simple house‑announcement into a safety net, a marketing boost, and a trust‑building gesture all at once The details matter here. Simple as that..

So the next time the curtain rises and the audience hears, “Tonight’s performance includes a live steel‑drum ensemble and a brief flash‑light sequence,” they’ll sit back knowing they’ve been thoughtfully prepared for every beat, shimmer, and surprise. And that—more than any spotlight—makes the show unforgettable Simple, but easy to overlook..

Enjoy the performance, and keep those announcements crisp!

11. take advantage of the Program Notes as a secondary channel

Even the most diligent house‑announcement can be missed in the pre‑show bustle. The printed program (or its digital equivalent) offers a quiet, personal space where you can reinforce the message:

• Sidebar call‑out: Place a boxed note on the inside front cover that reads, “Please note: This evening features a live‑drum percussion segment and a brief, timed strobe effect. If you have any sensitivities, let a staff member know.”
• QR code link: Include a scannable QR code that leads to a short video preview of the sensory elements. This not only informs but also builds excitement.
• Accessibility symbols: Use the internationally recognized icons for “flashing lights” and “loud sound” beside the note. A quick visual cue can catch the eye of patrons who may be scanning for that information.

By mirroring the announcement in the program, you create redundancy without redundancy—two different mediums, same essential information.

12. Conduct a pre‑show “soft‑check” with front‑of‑house staff

Five minutes before doors open, gather the ushers, ticket takers, and concession staff for a rapid huddle:

1. Read the exact announcement aloud—the same phrasing that will be used over the PA.
2. Highlight the “why”: “We’re letting guests know because the strobe can trigger seizures for a small portion of the audience.”
3. Assign a point person: One usher should be designated to field any immediate questions that arise during the announcement.
4. Confirm equipment: Verify that the PA system’s volume levels are set so the message is clear but not startling.

A short, focused rehearsal ensures that the message is delivered with confidence and that every staff member knows how to respond if someone raises a concern Small thing, real impact..

13. Build an Emergency Response Protocol around the inclusion

Even with the best communication, unexpected reactions can happen. Prepare a concise, step‑by‑step response plan:

• Identify the trigger: If a patron indicates discomfort during the flash‑bang, the nearest usher should calmly ask, “Are you feeling okay? Would you like to step outside?”
• Designated safe zone: Keep a quiet area near the lobby where staff can escort anyone who needs a break, stocked with water, a seat, and a low‑light environment.
• Medical liaison: Have a staff member trained in basic first aid (or a contracted medical professional) on standby for any seizure‑related incidents.
• Documentation: Log the incident in the nightly report so the production team can assess whether the inclusion’s intensity or duration needs adjustment for future runs.

Having a pre‑written, rehearsed protocol not only protects patrons but also demonstrates to the audience that the venue takes their well‑being seriously Small thing, real impact. No workaround needed..

14. Review legal and insurance requirements

Many jurisdictions require explicit disclosure of certain sensory effects, especially when they could pose a health risk. Before finalizing the announcement:

• Check local ordinances: Some cities mandate a minimum notice period (e.g., 24 hours) for flash‑bangs or high‑decibel sounds in public venues.
• Consult your insurer: Confirm that the policy covers any liability associated with the announced elements. Insurers often ask for proof that the audience was adequately warned.
• Maintain records: Keep copies of the announcement script, the program note, and the staff‑huddle minutes in a folder that can be presented to regulators or insurers if needed.

Cross‑checking these boxes eliminates surprises during audits and protects the production from costly legal fallout.

15. Capture real‑time feedback during the run

The night the show opens is the perfect moment to gauge whether your announcement hit the mark:

• Post‑announcement poll: Deploy a quick, one‑question poll on the venue’s app (“Did the pre‑show announcement give you enough information about the flash‑bang?”). Results appear instantly on the stage manager’s tablet.
• Usher observations: Ask ushers to note any confused looks or repeated questions during the intermission. A simple tally sheet can turn anecdotal data into actionable insight.
• Social listening: Monitor the venue’s official hashtag for comments like “Didn’t know about the strobe!” or “Thanks for the heads‑up!” Adjust the wording for the next performance if a pattern emerges.

Iterating based on live data keeps the communication sharp and shows the audience that you’re listening Still holds up..

Bringing It All Together

When you treat the announcement of non‑standard musical or sensory elements as a multi‑layered communication strategy—spanning the PA system, program notes, staff briefings, digital platforms, and post‑show analytics—you create a safety net that catches both the obvious and the obscure. The result is a production that feels transparent, professional, and respectful of every patron’s experience It's one of those things that adds up..

In practice, the workflow looks like this:

1. Script Review → Inclusion List → Draft Announcement
2. Copy‑edit → Staff Huddle → Program Note
3. Live Announcement → Social Push → Real‑time Feedback
4. Incident Log → Inclusion Report → Future‑run Adjustments

By looping each step back into the next production, you turn a single night’s logistical challenge into a lasting improvement to the venue’s operational DNA.

Conclusion

A well‑crafted, well‑timed announcement is more than a courtesy; it’s a critical component of modern theater stewardship. It safeguards health, enhances enjoyment, mitigates legal risk, and reinforces the brand’s commitment to audience care. That's why as a stage manager, your role is to orchestrate that communication with the same precision you bring to cues and lighting plots. When every flash, drum beat, or unexpected sound is paired with a clear, accessible heads‑up, you empower audiences to choose their experience confidently—and that, ultimately, is the hallmark of a truly great production.