Theatrical Performances
What is Dramatic Context?
Dramatic Context (or ‘DC’) is the use of copyright music in a theatrical performance – for example, in plays, ballets and shows with storylines.
Why is Dramatic Context different?
If a show meets the Dramatic Context definition, a standard ‘blanket licence’ that provides access to all songs in our repertoire is not available.
Dramatic Context rights are controlled by the copyright owners (composers/music publishers) of each musical work and their approval is required before any Dramatic Context performance can take place.
APRA can license certain works in Dramatic Context
Some copyright owners have elected for APRA to manage Dramatic Context licensing on their behalf, while others choose to license all requests directly.
Additionally, copyright owners may choose to directly license productions in venues that exceed a certain size or for specific types of performances.
Refer to our Dramatic Context information guide (PDF 774kb) for more information.
How does Dramatic Context licensing work?
When we receive an application, we assess whether the performance meets the Dramatic Context definition. If it does, we identify the ownership of each musical work and check whether any Go Direct conditions apply.
If there are musical works (or shares of musical works) APRA can’t license, we will advise who the copyright owners are and how to make contact. You must then seek a license directly with those copyright owners.
How do I apply for a Dramatic Context licence?
Please apply at least 6 weeks before the first public performance.
We will research your song list and advise which musical works APRA is able to license for use in your production and provide details of the copyright owners of musical works that will need to be directly licensed.
We’ll ask you to confirm your song list, including durations.
You’ll receive a licence agreement to sign and return.
After the final performance, report the Gross Box Office (GBO) and APRA AMCOS will send your invoice.
What can APRA AMCOS license?
APRA AMCOS can license millions of works in Dramatic Context.
The Go Direct list details songs and catalogues that will require direct licensing from composers or music publishers.
How much does a licence cost?
Licence Fee is the greater of (excl GST):
- 6% of Gross Box Office pro-rated*;
- $15 per work; or
- minimum fee per show season or tour licence.
| Gross Box Office | Minimum show season or Tour Fee excluding GST** |
|---|---|
| Less than $100,000 | $90 |
| $100,000 - $499,999 | $250 |
| $500,000 -$999,999 | $500 |
| $1,000,000 and above | $1,000 |
| Refer to our Dramatic Context information guide for Gross Box Office definition, and an example of how the fees apply to a production. *6% of Gross Box Office fees are pro-rated using percentage of music use against total show duration (Music Use Percentage, or MUP). **The conditions and licence fees are the same for both Australia and New Zealand, subject only to the different GST rates of 10% for Australia and 15% for New Zealand. The rates quoted above are in each territory’s local currency and exclude GST. | |
What if I want to use recorded music in my show?
If you are playing music from a commercially released sound recording (as opposed to the music being performed live or in a recording you have made), in addition to you APRA AMCOS licence, you will require direct permission (or a licence) from the relevant record label or rights holder for each sound recording.
In some limited instances Recorded Music NZ may be able to assist, depending on the circumstances.
To check if Recorded Music NZ can provide a licence please contact [email protected]
Does your production include Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property?
In Aotearoa New Zealand, ICIP encompassing Māori and Pacific Peoples’ cultural heritage, is recognised and affirmed under Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
ICIP refers to the rights of Indigenous peoples to protect their cultural heritage including traditional knowledge, cultural expressions, and taonga (treasures), from misuse and ensure their respect and recognition.
The team at APRA Aotearoa can provide support and guidance where appropriate to help music users engage responsibly and respectfully with Māori and Pasifika cultural works.
For more information on ICIP in Aotearoa New Zealand, please visit:
Frequently asked questions
What is Dramatic Context?
Dramatic Context means the performance of musical works:
A) in conjunction with a presentation on the live stage that has:
- a storyline; and
- one or more narrators or characters; or
B) as a Ballet.
What about music used at the end of the show, or during curtain calls or bows?
Music used pre-show, intermission or post-show while the house lights are on is generally not considered to be Dramatic Context and may already be covered under a venue’s OneMusic licence for background music.
Music used during an encore, curtain call or bows is always Dramatic Context.
Can I alter the lyrics or write arrangements of a song?
Making lyric changes and arrangements of musical works are not covered by an APRA AMCOS licence. If you plan to alter lyrics or make new musical arrangements, you must obtain permission from the relevant copyright owner (usually a music publisher) or the songwriter, if the musical work is unpublished.
APRA AMCOS will supply you with publisher contact details to obtain permission direct.
APRA AMCOS does not control rights for the use of music in a Dramatic Context and only acts as agent for its members – and then only for some works and for some uses. Arrangements are therefore different to most other licences you may have obtained from us. It is important that you are aware that copyright ownership in a song and/or the position of the songwriter may change from time to time. This means previous approval for the same or a similar show does NOT guarantee that approval will be given again for any new application. Accordingly, APRA AMCOS notes that any financial or other investment in your show, including the booking of venues, ahead of you obtaining a licence for all the works is entirely at your own risk.
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