Lisa, I'm new here too, so we can represent a united front and talk out of turn together.

I think word of mouth is absolutely essential for smaller/new shows. Some friends of mine (from Melbourne) have a very silly, very amusing show at the Gilded Balloon called Life. Get It Up Ya. They sold out last night on what is largely word of mouth.

As a veteran of various fringe festivals over the world I can assure you thatyou are right - word of mouth is as legitimate and effective as regular PR. You don't need a big budget to sell out a show.

It is official. The mouth is mightier than the pen.

Could you define "word of mouth" for me?

Given the bland plug message from Janet, I think it must mean PR that you don't have to pay for.

I wonder if word of mouth can be accused of being 'arrogant'?

Meow to you too.

If I'm promoting anything I usually find going on holiday with Robbie Williams does the trick.

And vice versa

"Could you define "word of mouth" for me?"
People talking to other people via their own human mouths. (Peter, I'm perplexed as to what else you think it may mean - do share with the group.)

"Given the bland plug message from Janet, I think it must mean PR that you don't have to pay for. "
Bland? I thought it was more like blatant! I'll make sure I colour it in a bit better next time, just for you.

>"Could you define "word of mouth" for me?"
>People talking to other people via their own human mouths. (Peter, I'm perplexed as to what else you think it may mean - do share with the group.)

Oh, alright... er, miss.

I meant "What is the difference between word of mouth and PR, as far as you (Janet) are concerned?"

It was a rhetorical question, as there is obviously no difference at all, you plugging machine, you!

Peter you have a very sexy way with words. Have you never considered a career in word of mouth?

You couldn't afford me dear!

Just for you my dear Peter...
The way I see it, PR takes in such matters as publicity via media, posters, adverstising, etc. PR incorporates recognised and deliberate forms of promotion, as can be defined in, say, a budget report for a show. It lets people know about a show en masse.

Word of mouth is more one-on-one. Very much "people power". As Lisa reports, it's all about people chatting in a ticket line, overhearing comments in a bar, having a show recommended to them by a friend. IIf you see a poster saying "This show is fantastic!" you won't necessarily race to see it, but if a friend says "This show is fantastic - you've got to see it" then you probably will.
And there, my friend, lays the power of word-o'mouth. Here endeth the lesson.
(There will be a short exam at a later date)

Ahhh... I see. So when a salesmen knocks on the door and tries to sell you stuff, that's business.

But when your next door neighbour pops round and starts trying to sell you a load of kitchen cleaning products that they're stuck with because they stupidly signed up to a pyramid selling scheme six months ago and their house is full of Jif, that's a deep and fulfilling neighbourly relationship?

Can't you see that the dividing line is as thin as Wogan's hair?

Err, no. Those are both examples of what would be PR.
Plus an excuse to put up a large fence.

So is it word-of-mouth if the promoting-person doesn't make a profit from the thing they are promoting?

Yeah, if the word of mouth is "this show is shit".

So I should only really believe people if they think things are shit???

>So I should only really believe people if they think things are shit???

Absolutely. For example, if anyone ever tells them what a nice bloke you are, tell them to fuck off immediately. They're only trying to sell you something.

Seeing as Janet brought it up, but is slightly biased in her recomendation, can I just say GO AND SEE THIS SHOW. I personally think it is just brilliant, and fortunately as I'm working at that particular venue, I have the pleasure of being able to see it repeatedly. I forced Trevor Lock to see it yesterday. Almost literally, in that I walked him to the queue and wouldn't leave him until he had gone in - there was no escape. I shall find out his thoughts. Though I bet he hated it. Simply becasue that tends to be the response to anything I like.
Janet - what's your surname? Can I mention you to them? Do you know them all?
It's worth seeing just for Scott and Sarah's solo songs. Though it wouldn't be complete without Rick and Edwina. In fact, it's proabably worth going, just for the costumes...

Beccy, ask Scott to do his 'junkie' voice for you. ( It's second only to his '14 yo schoolboy' voice.)
Tell him hi from Aunty Janet.

As you're in E'burgh, any thoughts on Perrier nominations for us?