Whether it is a play at the theater or at your child's school, there is usually someone at the entrance handing out programs. Programs do give credit where credit is due and list pertinent information about a show and the people and sponsors that put it on, but when all is said and done, programs amount to a lot of paper.

While programs do make good souvenirs or keepsakes, if you don't intend to put it in the scrapbook, consider leaving it behind. Some theater companies, especially the smaller ones, will reuse programs for a multiple run show. If you've managed to keep it in good condition throughout the performance, hand it to an usher at the end of the show. Or, take just one program initially to share between those you came with.

If you happen to be the one putting on the show (big or small), create a display in the lobby with pertinent information (run time, intermission, cast and crew pictures and bios, play history.) However, if you rely on the ad money from programs, make sure they are printed on paper with post-consumer recycled content and print less rather than more (there are usually lots of leftovers.)

Programs aren't limited to the theater, of course. There are music concerts, festivals and any number of events or performances where programs are issued. Remember, just because it's there doesn't mean you have to take one per person. One per household is usually enough, and it will be less that you'll have to take home with you after the show is over.

Amy says: I'm one of those avid scrapbookers, so I used to always bring my program home with me. Now I forego the program and just use the ticket stub and a photo with me in front of the theater or at the event for my scrapbook page. Plus, it is more memorable for you to fill in the extra info on the page yourself, such as what you thought of the performance and who was in it. No program necessary.