Licensing Theatre

[wearyfeet]

So I am almost ready to start production on a behind-the-scenes documentary of a musical, and I am planning on incorporating the songs from the musical as well as some footage from their performances. I imagine I will need to arrange licensing terms for the music and/or performance. In these types of situations, are there any industry standard terms that are generally used? Flat fee? Percentage?

This subject is a friend so I don't want to screw her on any fair share of revenues from the film (if I make any money off of this to begin with... :smile. But I also don't want to screw myself.

Any suggestions? Thanks in advance!

 

[Steve House]

It sounds like a broken record but you really should see an entertainment law attorney on this. AFAIK, the performance license to put on the musical in front of an audience DOES NOT convey rights to sync in to your film. That would be separate licensing from the owners of the copyright to the story, music, and lyrics. You need to discuss the your exact situation with an expert in the field.

 

[Indywannabe]

My guess is that you will be shooting behind the scenes for a high school or community theater vs. a current run Broadway production.

If that is the case, then call MTI for licensing info. Here is the web site: http://www.mtimusicalworlds.com/

 

[mburgh]

Make sure you check, and then say farewell to your budget. Typical reperformance costs? 5 to 10k per song.