Frequently Asked Questions

What is ShowPlayer?

ShowPlayer is an iOS app designed for rehearsals and live theatre playback. It runs on iPhone or iPad with iOS 15.6 or later (our minimum deployment target). You can also run ShowPlayer on a Mac with Apple silicon (M-series processors such as M1, M2, or newer) via macOS support for iOS apps.

ShowPlayer helps you organize show audio, practice cues, and automate tasks like mic-mute so your team can focus more on the performance and less on button-pressing. For rehearsals, audio can play through the built-in speakers or any external speaker connected via Bluetooth or cable. For more advanced setups, ShowPlayer can integrate with digital soundboards and mixers that support mute automation.

Do I still need a license from the publisher?

Yes. ShowPlayer does not sell or grant performance rights. You obtain your license and underlying show materials directly from the rights holder (such as a publisher or licensing company). Access to specific shows in the App may be tied to a valid, active license and may be limited to your licensed performance window.

For more detail, see our Licensing & Content page.

Do I have to import all the audio and set everything up myself?

All titles currently available in ShowPlayer are delivered as fully pre-built, turnkey shows. They include the licensed show audio, practice tracks when available, complete mic layouts, mute automation, and suggested conductor cues. Your show is ready to use immediately, and you can make adjustments to match your cast, equipment, and venue needs.

For original productions, concerts, or shows that are not part of our supported library, we offer professional show-building services. This can include audio import and editing, cueing, mic layout design, automation setup, rehearsal tools, and ongoing technical support. If you’d like assistance creating a custom show, please contact us at [email protected].

• Pre-built, licensing-aware shows where 90% of the work is done for you, and
• Fully custom shows for original content, concerts, or productions that don't use a pre-packaged title.

In all cases, you still obtain and hold the performance rights from the licensor; ShowPlayer just provides the tools and (where available) pre-built setups.

Can students or children use ShowPlayer?

Yes, ShowPlayer can be used by students and young performers when supervised by adults (such as teachers, parents, or production staff). The App does not require an account, does not collect personal identifying information, and does not introduce additional content beyond the show materials used for your production.

Appropriateness for children always follows the content and rating of the underlying show. Youth-oriented titles (such as Junior or Kids editions) are generally more suitable for younger performers than productions aimed at general or adult audiences. For data-handling details, see our Privacy Policy.

What do I need to run ShowPlayer?

ShowPlayer requires an iPhone or iPad running iOS 15.6 or later. It also runs on Mac computers equipped with Apple silicon (M-series chips) through macOS support for iOS apps.

For rehearsals, ShowPlayer works with:

• Built-in speakers on iPhone, iPad, or supported Mac devices.
• External speakers connected via Bluetooth or cable.

For mic automation in rehearsals or performances:

• Direct control of many popular digital soundboards (e.g., Behringer, Midas).
• Integration with any mixer supporting mute automation via MIDI.
• Optional hardware such as an audio/MIDI interface (e.g., Focusrite Scarlett) and Apple’s USB-C or Lightning camera adapters for reliable wired connections.

A more detailed Connection & Setup Guide will be available soon.

What is the demo show?

The demo show is a sample production included with ShowPlayer to help you learn the workflow and explore features without needing to license a specific title. It is intended for training, experimentation, and internal rehearsals, not public performances.

How do I get help if something goes wrong?

If you run into an issue, please email us at [email protected] with a description of what happened. For show-time problems, include "URGENT" in the subject line and provide as much detail as you can about your setup and what you were doing when the issue occurred.

Our Support page includes a checklist of helpful details to include with your request.