As a performer, I’ve had my fair share of reviews—some glowing, some questionable, some both.
When you land a good review, it feels like a little celebration of all the work that goes into a show. There’s that instant jolt of validation, like you’ve cracked open a new level in the game of “pursuing a career in the arts.”
You feel taller, maybe even invincible for a moment.
But I’ll be honest: I used to celebrate those wins too quickly. I’d be so focused on the next performance, the next goal, that I’d let those media mentions slip into memory.
What I missed was realising that each of these moments could be a real driver of ticket sales and audience buzz.
I’ve learned, sometimes the hard way, that if you capture that spotlight and direct it the right way, it can have a lasting impact on your show’s success and your career.
Here’s how I’ve learned to make media reviews work for me and the shows I’ve worked on for arts companies across Australia—and how you can too.
Treat every piece of coverage like gold
When you get media coverage, treat every part of it like treasure. Capture high-quality screenshots, save any quotable lines, and archive any visuals that showcase your show.
That single glowing sentence or image could be a versatile tool for promoting your work across every channel.
One thing I do now, which I used to overlook and is still a work in progress, is keeping everything organised.
Each article, photo, or blurb has a designated spot. It might sound overly meticulous, but now I’m working to have every piece of coverage I can find right at my fingertips.
Whenever I want to draw attention back to my work, it’s all ready. No more digging through my inbox or struggling to remember where I saved that link.
How to build media credibility into your marketing
Letting your audience know that your work has been recognised is not about bragging; it’s to leverage the trust that audiences place in the media.
Reviews are a form of endorsement, and that credibility goes a long way in making audiences feel more confident in choosing your show.
Here’s how to make that clout work:
1. Website
One of the simplest things you can do is create a “press” or “featured in” section on your webpages.
Gather those reviews, quotes, and snippets in a place where visitors can see that your work is generating buzz.
I’ve found that it adds polish, and it reassures new audiences that your work is worth their time and money.
2. Email
Another missed opportunity for me used to be my email list. I’d send out updates but skip over including reviews, thinking people were more interested in the next show dates.
Now, I’ve learned that featuring a great quote or snippet from a recent review can make emails feel less like a generic newsletter and more like a compelling reason to buy a ticket. I
It’s a subtle shift but one that keeps your show in the minds of those who already follow your work.
3. Social Media
Social media is one of the most powerful places to amplify a review. In the past, I’d post one simple “Look at this nice thing they said about us!” and call it a day.
Now, I see each review as a chance to get creative and deepen my connection with my audience.
You can take a standout line from the review and design it into a bold, shareable graphic. It looks strong, and it’s something followers can easily share to spread the word.
When I share a review, I also try to share what it meant to me. Did it validate something I’d been working hard to improve? Was it a surprise? It’s a simple way to let people in on the journey, and it keeps the whole thing feeling personal.
It brings people into the experience, and I’ve found that it resonates more deeply than a formal post ever could.
4. Posters and flyers
Don’t overlook print materials! Adding a notable quote or the logo of a respected publication to posters or flyers can instantly increase the appeal of your show.
Even people who don’t recognise you personally will recognise the endorsement, and it adds a layer of credibility that can make all the difference.
Showing off your media mentions in every space where attendees might find you helps shift your show from “just another option” to “the one to see.”
5. Event listings
Adding quotes or “as featured in” tags to your listings on ticket sites can make a world of difference.
It adds an air of excitement and legitimacy to your show, especially when you’re up against a lot of other options.
I had a show recently featured on the ABC, and it was a great little pop to use the brand of that organisation to uplift the show.
6. Press kit
A press kit is like a portfolio, showing that your work has a track record.
Having a well-organised press kit that includes your media mentions makes it easier to pitch to other publications or sponsors.
7. Grant applications
Good reviews don’t just help with ticket sales—they can also be your best friend in grant applications.
I used to feel awkward about including them, but now I realise that a well-placed quote about the impact of my work is third-party validation of my abilities and relevance in the industry.
Having credible feedback from respected sources has given me confidence that I can prove to funders that my work matters to the community and has staying power.
It’s no longer just me telling them I’m good; there’s broader acknowledgment of my work’s impact.
Play the long game
Reviews and features aren’t just for your current show; they’re assets for your entire brand.
When I realised this, it changed everything. Now, even a review from a past show can find its way into promotions for a new project because it establishes a track record.
For future show promotions, I’ll often include a quick mention of positive feedback from previous works.
Audiences love knowing they’re coming to see a performer or a production team that has consistently wowed other audiences.
Final thoughts
Positive reviews are an opportunity to amplify your message, build your credibility, and grow your audience.
That review might have only been published once, but it has the power to keep selling tickets and drawing interest, long after the show has ended.
Capture every detail. Build it into your marketing, share your journey with your audience, and keep the excitement going. With every review, you’re creating a history of memorable performances that people want to experience and be a part of.
And in the end, that’s the kind of impact that goes beyond a full house. So take a bow—and keep making that media feature work for you long after the lights have dimmed.
