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We’re excited about the increase of new plays and devised theatrical pieces in our region. Some schools have re-imagined plays, or taken a new creative approach with an older play. While we applaud the imagination and creativity that goes into such work, we remind you that any change to a playwright’s text must be approved by the playwright, and permission granted in writing. We cannot cut or change lines, alter the structure of the play, or essential stage directions without permission. Playwrights, agents and theatrical publishing companies are approachable and willing to work with us to obtain that permission. We should start that negotiation well before rehearsals begin.
In light of the fact that theatre is a collaborative art, we’re giving you access to “The Playwright’s Bill of Rights” discussed by Gary Garrison, an Executive Director of the Dramatists Guild of America, at our festival last year. This document is not intended to limit your creative initiative, but to help make you aware of copyright issues, and to encourage you to invite the playwright as an active member of the collaborative team. We’ve heard horror stories of playwrights being locked out of that process once the final draft is completed. This document does not seek to give the playwright unreasonable control, but to encourage an active collaboration between the whole creative team. |
