What is a run of show in event planning?

A run of show is an essential tool in event planning that outlines an item-by-item sequence of events throughout the duration of an event. It serves as a detailed timeline that helps coordinators, staff, and volunteers understand the flow of the event, including key activities, speaker times, transitions, and any necessary cues for presentations or performances. This meticulous planning ensures that every aspect of the event unfolds smoothly and allows for timely adjustments if any unforeseen issues arise.

Having a clear run of show is critical for communication among team members, as it keeps everyone informed about their roles and responsibilities at each stage of the event. It also helps to maintain engagement and punctuality, which are vital for successful event execution. Other options, such as lists of potential vendors, financial reports, or feedback forms, play important roles in different phases of event management, but they do not specifically detail the chronological sequence of activities that are central to a run of show.