The publicity offices are located in the Admin area on the Admin Level of the Festival Theatre near Education and Human Resources.
The publicity team looks after all the media coverage about the Festival. We arrange media visits, pitch stories, coordinate interviews and photo shoots, and write and distribute media releases. We also coordinate production photography and video clips for media use, so you’ll likely see us at your dress rehearsals.
We receive all kinds of media requests throughout the season and are always dreaming up pitches for media outlets. In order to make the most of these opportunities, we benefit greatly from learning more about you – we welcome anything you’d like to share!
We look forward to seeing you at the meet and greets and will do our best to introduce ourselves. We also invite you to stop by our offices for a chat anytime – or drop us an email if you’d like us to set up a time to get together.
Ann Swerdfager, Publicity Director - aswerdfager@stratfordfestival.ca
Nathan Mackey, Publicity Assistant - nmackey@stratfordfestival.ca
Some FAQs to give you an idea of how we might work together:
How will I learn about media opportunities?
We’ll first send you an email asking if you’d like to participate. We’ll include all the details we have – media outlet, writer/host, topic, timing, other artists involved, etc. If you’re up for it, we’ll then work together with you and stage management to fit it into your schedule as conveniently as possible.
What is the timetable for interviews?
We’ll try to give you as much advance notice as possible. We usually have at least a few days to fulfill a request, which gives you some time to think it over. There are, however, many last-minute requests that come through, so hearing back from you quickly is enormously helpful. If we’re working to a particularly tight deadline, we may text, call, leave a note in your dressing room or leave a message with stage management.
What if I don’t have experience with media?
No worries! We’re happy to provide media training or even just chat with you about your concerns or the subject matter. If you don’t feel comfortable doing an interview or just aren’t up to it, you’re always free to decline. No pressure, obligation or judgement.
Do I need talking points?
We’ll make sure you have the basics, like dates, times, names, background, etc. We don’t like to limit you by providing specific talking points, but we certainly can if it makes you feel more comfortable. Our goal is to set you up for success.
Will I get media coverage this season?
While we are constantly pitching stories and engaging with media throughout the season, given the ever-changing media landscape, we can’t promise that every artist – or even every show – will get media attention.
Can I contribute story ideas?
Yes, please, we LOVE story ideas! We also love learning about you – things like your hometown, where you went to school, hobbies, side gigs, other projects you’re doing, interests – anything you’re willing to share!
If you have an idea that would be particularly suitable for social media, please pass those along to the Marketing team members who look after the Festival’s accounts.
Can I share production photos on my social media?
Yes, absolutely! Prior to each opening, we will do our best to send out a Dropbox with approved images that you can share. Be sure to credit your fellow artists (details will be included in the Dropbox). As we are a tiny department, we can be occupied with other pressing items, so don’t hesitate to send us an email prompt if you want images and haven’t seen them yet.
Can I have production photos for my own personal use?
Yes! Personal use of production photos is allowed if everyone in the cast agrees. Please email the Archives department to access hi-res production images once your show has opened.
What do I do if someone comes to me directly with a media request?
We are here to help! Please send us any requests you might receive. We can help you evaluate the request and arrange the interview. We will supply photos or set up shoots and look after all the coordination for you. Should it be necessary, we can also politely decline on your behalf so you aren’t put in a difficult position.
The content on this page was updated by Ann Swerdfager, November 2024