What is the purpose of an 'elevator pitch' in show production?

An 'elevator pitch' serves the purpose of succinctly conveying the essence of a production. This brief summary is designed to encapsulate the main concept, themes, or unique selling points of a show or production in a clear and engaging manner. The idea is that it should be concise enough to be communicated in the time it takes to ride an elevator, which typically lasts about 30 seconds to two minutes. This quick presentation is beneficial for gaining interest from potential stakeholders, such as investors, collaborators, or audiences, by highlighting what makes the production compelling without delving into excessive detail.

While detailed production notes, performance schedules, and promotional materials have their own importance in the production process, they do not fulfill the essential role of an elevator pitch. A well-crafted elevator pitch can spark interest and initiate conversations that lead to further exploration of the production's potential.