The Story Behind the LPL Playbill

Until 1997 Lakeland Players printed a program for each individual show.  The programs varied in style and format and were usually quick-copied.  For our 25th anniversary we decided to try a more professional approach and produce a playbill similar to what audiences receive when they visit larger theatres.

However, our first concern was cost.  A slick booklet would certainly be more expensive than our newsprint programs were.  The obvious answer was advertising.

Veteran LPL members Babs and Marv Henschel volunteered to solicit ads from local businesses for a playbill.  Advertisers placed a single ad in a yearly playbill that appeared with the programs for all shows.  The advertisers received a bargain, and LPL had sufficient funds to produce a first class playbill.

The first season playbill was a success with both advertisers and our audiences.  The 2002-2003 playbill is the sixth one we published, and audiences will find ads from many repeat advertisers as well as new supporters.

The Henschels were our ad coordinators for five years, and they greatly enjoyed their visits to our local business persons.  "Almost every person is cordial and pleased to place an ad," said Marv.  Following their retirement in 2002, a new committee worked to fill the shoes of Babs and Marv, but "It's not easy!" smiles Publicity Director Sharon Ainger.  "We -- and our advertisers -- miss their energy and enthusiasm."

Lakeland Players hopes that you will pick up our playbill and remember to patronize our advertisers.  They made it possible.

For information about placing an ad in the 2003-2004 playbill, please contact us at lakelandplayers@yahoo.com.

 Send mail  with questions or comments about this web site to lakelandplayers@yahoo.com.  Copyright © 2005 Lakeland Players Ltd.