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Question: Using Script - But Not Charging!?
My 4th graders are doing a play that was performed by our local theatre a few years ago!. We are not charging anyone to see it, and we are only performing for parents/family!. The script is also heavily edited (to make it more kid appropriate)!. The old director who did this show before thought that we could do it for free since we weren't charging and we didn't use up the number performances allotted to us when we first bought the script!. I'm still a bit worried!. Could I get in trouble!?
also - my mentor teacher (I'm a student teacher) wants me to invite the local newspaper (we are a small community)!. Is this a good idea if we are reusing the script!?Www@QuestionHome@Com
Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:
I use a lot of heavily edited scripts for classroom use and never pay for the rights!. If I am charging, inviting a public audience, etc then I always do, but for a small production like this you should be fine!.
However if you are very concerned it never hurts to contact the company that holds the rights!. I know one group in NYC that did not pay for the rights of a show and the worse thing that happened to them was their show was closed down!. However this was an off-off Broadway production that had one equity actor in it who also was going against union rules!. My guess is that being you are in a small community and this is not for profit, you guys will be fine!.Www@QuestionHome@Com
You're a fourth grade teacher!.!.!.most people should show a little mercy, especially since it's highly edited!.Www@QuestionHome@Com