Translation guide
A showing of a film or performance before its official release, often for promotional purposes or for a select audience.
A preview showing of a movie, play, or other performance before its general release.
The most common term for an advance screening of a film, often used for promotional events where tickets are given away.
来週、新作映画の試写会に招待されました。
I was invited to an advance screening of the new movie next week.
Literally 'advance showing', used for films or performances shown ahead of the official release date, often in limited theaters.
この映画は一部の劇場で先行上映されます。
This movie will have advance screenings at select theaters.
Refers to a premiere screening, often a red-carpet event with cast and crew. More specific than a general advance screening.
プレミア上映には監督と主演俳優が登場した。
The director and lead actor appeared at the premiere screening.
A preview performance of a play or show before its official opening night.
Commonly used for theater previews, where the show is performed before the official opening to test audience reactions.
プレビュー公演のチケットは少し安くなっています。
Tickets for the preview performance are a bit cheaper.
Similar to 先行上映 but for stage performances. Less common than プレビュー公演.
先行公演は関係者向けに行われた。
The advance performance was held for invited guests.
試写会 often implies a free promotional event with giveaways, while 先行上映 simply means an early showing, possibly with paid tickets. 試写会 is more common in everyday conversation.
試写会に当選した！
I won tickets to an advance screening!
先行上映は来月から始まります。
Advance screenings will start next month.
プレミア上映 or プレミア公演 implies a gala event with celebrities. Use it only when the screening has a red-carpet or special guest element.