What does cutting a script actually mean? I've had different people tell me

Question:I'm a novice director in OAP. Some say cutting is actually adapting and can't be done legally without permission. Others say some cutting is allowed to keep the script within the alloted 40 minute performance time frame. Can anyone help?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I'm a novice director in OAP. Some say cutting is actually adapting and can't be done legally without permission. Others say some cutting is allowed to keep the script within the alloted 40 minute performance time frame. Can anyone help?

Scripts are copyrighted, and all changes must be approved by the publishing company.

However, they usually OK it, as long as it does not change the plot or intent of the playwright in any way.

It depends, some can't be changed at all due to the playwright not wanting changes, but in most cases it is perfectly alright to cut here and there.

How will they know if you make a few changes? Why would most care, as long as you pay the royalty.

Cutting a script means taking out lines and maybe scenes.

If you are paying a licensing fee to a publisher, you CANNOT alter the play in any way, shape or form. It is part of the contract.

Cutting lines is not adapting. It is bastardizing the intent of the playwright. Do not do it without written permission from the publisher. Public Domain plays (e.g. Shakespeare) can be cut to your heart's content. In some of Shakespeare's more long-winded passages, it is actually preferable.

Only got 40 minutes? Choose a shorter play.