Theatre

We advise on the full range of issues in connection with the theatre sector, including the funding, production and licensing of stage productions (both in the UK and overseas), rights acquisitions, advice on copyright and the negotiation of contracts.

Key contacts
Overview

We act for producers, investors and theatre owners, as well as creative team members, including directors, writers, composers and lyricists.

Our expertise in both the commercial and subsidised parts of the industry puts us at the forefront of negotiations for the ever-increasing number of transfers and co-productions between the two sectors.

Given the firm’s depth of experience in the music sector, we are also particularly well-placed to advise on, and have strong expertise surrounding, the production of large-scale musicals in the West End, on Broadway and in other major cities around the world.

Alongside our specialist theatre group, other areas of the firm advise on wider theatre-related work. For instance, our Property team are able to advise on the acquisition, development and disposal of theatres, while our Corporate team offers advice on investing in, and the raising of investment for, theatrical productions. Our Film & TV team are also able to advise on productions that cross over from stage to screen, or vice versa.

Expertise

Our areas of expertise include the following:

  • Production finance
  • Investment and co-production agreements
  • Rights acquisitions
  • Option agreements
  • Commissioning agreements
  • Producer agreements
  • Director agreements
  • Talent agreements
  • Venue agreements
  • Commercial exploitation of subsidised productions
  • Overseas licensing

KEY CONTACT

KEY CONTACTS

Legal and industry experts representing both well-established and up-and-coming individuals and organisations in the sector.

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Simkins have an excellent media practice constantly evolving with the changes in our industry.
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Huge effort, attention to detail and great concern for their clients.
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Every lawyer I have worked with has been friendly, approachable and willing to listen.
Chambers & Partners
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