The show can and should stand on its own. I should not need any additional information in order to enjoy it.
But some background can enrich my experience of the show, increase my understanding of it, and enhance my appreciation, which is quite distinct from my enjoyment.
Examples of kinds of information that I like to read ahead and welcome seeing in the program (in addition to the name of the author/composer/librettist/playwright/~~):
— When it was written and where it was first produced. (Context, social norms and conventions, cultural references)
— Age and stage of career of the author or composer. (Relationship to other works I might know, setting of expectations)
— Whether it was based on some other work or source. (Framework)
— Initial public reception. (Historic perspective)
— Any special details about the production (e.g., the most popular number was almost cut from the first production; the opening of the second act once caused a theater fire in Paris; the lead had to learn to juggle in order to play the part). (Increase anticipation, arouse awareness of the art per se)
— The composer’s or creator’s vision. (Understanding)
— Thematic siblings, spiritual cousins (e.g., draws heavily on mythic themes of ancient Greece; in the tradition of Verdi and Puccini; a classic coming-of-age story). (Orientation, enrichment, setting of expectations)
— Critical evaluation—brief summary (e.g., considered his best; a glimpse of the brilliant but immature work of ~~; enormously influential in the genre; oft-overlooked small gem). (Interpretation, setting of expectations)
Is this the kind of thing you’re looking for?
Can I quit my job and come to work with you?