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If you are a fan of video games, you may have noticed that many open-world games offer sideline quizzes in addition to the main theme. Many players tend to only stick to the main line of the game, while others try to complete all the quests and win all the achievements.

However, gaming is not the only area that benefits from side content. The entire entertainment industry uses this tool for its own purposes in one way or another, and live show production is no exception. This article will tell you what side content is for in a live show and how to use it.

Why do live shows need side content?

First, side content increases entertainment time. The more quality content you provide, the longer the participants will stay with you. Side content provides a more immersive experience. Extras like Q&A sessions or behind-the-scenes glimpses are a great way to fill in pauses without losing your viewer’s interest.

Secondly, providing a variety of content helps to increase the fan base — this way, there is something for everyone. As is the case with games, some fans come purely to watch your quiz, competition, music event, or whatever it is, while other fans enjoy the overall show. By offering content variety, you cater to diverse interests within your audience.

And thirdly, additional content is another opportunity for a variety of marketing activities. New product launches, updates to your brand, and sale announcements are a great bonus to your show. By keeping the viewer’s attention with interesting content, you can share the necessary information with your target audience in real time.

What can you use as side content?

What can you use as side content? Credit: WePlay Holding

What can you use as side content? Credit: WePlay Holding

There are many options for including side content in your live show. The main thing is that the side content should be relevant to the theme of the show or your brand. For example, films often use bloopers at the end, which often elicits laughter from the audience; in other shows, hosts spotlight fans’ work or read their comments to express gratitude for their contributions. Here are a few options that can suit your audience:

Exclusive interviews

One of the most common types of side content is short blitz interviews. A quick chat with a special guest or cast member can grab viewers’ attention and keep them tuned into your stream.

New launches and brand updates

To enjoy the support of fans, a brand needs to establish contact with them and give something in return. Providing brand-new products exclusively to your loyal fans is a great step for the brand to demonstrate its involvement.

Behind-the-scenes

An online show has thousands of details that can surprise your audience. For example, in some shows produced by WePlay Studios, experts add an intro about what the studio and stage look like from the inside before starts.

The concept of a show is basically a multi-level scheme, where the main line is just part of the overall story. Although side content is often overlooked, it is the most proven way to attract the attention of fans and give them a full experience of being yet another participant in your show.