Asolo Repertory Theatre Introduces TAGS to Engage Patrons

Asolo Repertory Theatre announces it will begin using leading edge smart phone technology, Microsoft TAGS, to engage patrons. The theatre is joins other Sarasota companies and non-profits to participate in TagSRQ, an area economic development initiative designed to drive new business via mobile phones. Patrons can look for Asolo Rep TAGS on all 2010–2011 materials.

"Asolo Rep is already on the leading edge artistically. It's only natural that we're embracing this new technology to find creative ways to engage our audience and reach new customers. Last year we expanded our use of social media tools with Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, and we updated our website to reflect the quality of our work and offer patrons a more compelling online experience. These initiatives have proven very successful," explains Asolo Rep Marketing Director Darcy Ballew. "We're excited and pleased to be one of the first regional theatres in the US to offer TAGS interactive technology to our patrons, making downloads and special offers more fun and accessible for smart phone users."

Patrons can look for Asolo Rep TAGS on posters, brochures and virtually all of its printed materials. Smart phone users can scan a Tag by using the free Tag Reader application on their phone, which will automatically open the webpage, display a message, or dial a number–there's no URL to type or SMS message to send. Use TAGS to receive discounts, watch videos and access season information, or even buy tickets to the new musical Bonnie & Clyde, during a pre-sale event on September 14th.

Smart phone users may download a free reader at www.GetTag.mobi, follow the easy directions and then scan the attached tag to view Asolo Rep's video introduction to TAGS.

Asolo Repertory Theatre is Florida's premier professional theatre and one of the most important cultural forces in the Southeastern United States. As a center for theatrical excellence, Asolo Rep crafts the highest quality productions of classical, contemporary and newly commissioned work all performed in the rarest form of rotating repertory. Featuring an accomplished resident company – complemented by distinguished guest artists – Asolo Rep offers audiences a unique and dynamic theatre experience. Under the leadership of Producing Artistic Director Michael Donald Edwards and Managing Director Linda DiGabriele, this world-class institution has taken bold steps toward the future, building landmark partnerships and collaborations which will add to its success for generations to come. More information at the website: http://www.asolorep.org

"TagSRQ" was introduced in Sarasota by Lakewood Ranch Communities. The program uses Microsoft's "TAG" technology to help drive new business to Sarasota companies via mobile phones. As more and more people rely on their smart phones to guide them through a city and tell them where to go, TAGS will act as bread crumbs that give them more information about where they are and guide their choices. TagSRQ creates a "tech" tour of Sarasota, linking the digital world and the physical world. More information at the website: http://www.tagsrq.com

Microsoft markets TAGS as a next-generation, new and improved solution to QR codes technology. In basic terms, a TAG is like a bar code that a mobile phone can scan. TAGS engage smart phone users who use a free Tag Reader application to automatically click on the TAGS for instant access to information and websites, and to download videos, special promotions and more. The Tag Reader application runs on all the major phone platforms and users can instantly download the app from a single site. More information at the website: http://www.microsoft.com/tag

Asolo Repertory Theatre (AKA: Asolo Theatre Company, Inc.) is funded in part by the Division of Cultural Affairs, Florida Department of State, the Florida Arts Council, the city and County of Sarasota and the Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax through the Board of County Commissioners, the tourist Development Council and the Sarasota County Arts Council. Funding is also received through efforts of support groups and the generosity of individuals, corporations and foundations.

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