Repertoire vs. Repertory — What's the Difference?

Repertoire and repertory both relate to collections of artistic works, but they emphasize slightly different aspects and usage contexts. A repertoire is the range or collection of skills, abilities, or acknowledged works an individual artist, such as a musician, dancer, or actor, is prepared to perform. This term highlights the personal capability and selection specific to an individual's talents or skills. On the other hand, repertory typically refers to the collection of works or performances that a theater company, dance company, or similar group keeps ready for production. It underscores a collective capacity and is often used in the context of organizations rather than individuals.

The term "repertoire" has broadened beyond the performing arts to include the range of skills or behaviors an individual or entity can demonstrate in various fields. For instance, one might refer to a chef's repertoire to describe all the dishes they are skilled at making. Conversely, "repertory" remains more closely tied to the performing arts, particularly theater, and emphasizes the concept of a rotating selection of works available for performance within a specific season or over a company's history.

In practice, the distinction between repertoire and repertory can blur, especially as "repertoire" is increasingly used in a broad sense to include the collective capabilities of groups or ensembles. Nonetheless, "repertory" often conveys a structured, organized collection of works that a company can present, reflecting planning and preparedness to offer a variety of performances.

While both terms signify a collection of works, the context in which they are used can hint at their specific nuances. A musician's repertoire might include their personally selected and perfected pieces, reflecting individual taste and skill, while a theater's repertory represents a curated selection of plays it is equipped to perform, often aiming to showcase diversity and appeal to a wide audience.

The focus on individual versus collective capability is a key difference. Repertoire emphasizes an individual’s breadth and depth in their craft, adaptable to various contexts, including but not limited to performance. Repertory, while also showcasing versatility, more specifically highlights the organizational aspect of performance readiness and scheduling within groups.