What are "preview" performances?

Preview performances are specifically designed to take place before the official opening night of a production. These performances allow the cast and crew to fine-tune their work based on audience reactions. It is a critical part of the production process, as it provides an opportunity to assess the overall flow of the show, the effectiveness of staging, and the audience's engagement.

During previews, adjustments can be made to the script, blocking, and technical elements, which helps create a more polished final performance. This phase is essential for gathering feedback and making necessary tweaks before the show is officially launched to the public.

In contrast, final rehearsals typically occur just before the previews start and are not open to the public. Performances after opening night are already part of the regular run and do not fall under the definition of preview performances. Private showings, while they might occur before the public opening, are often not part of the typical schedule and serve different purposes, such as invitations to industry professionals or donors, rather than serving as a test run before the official performances.