Expert: Arlene Schulman - 9/21/2004

Question
Hi there,

I am interested in doing a musical in a high school music program this year. I need to get started right away, but in terms of picking out a musical, I don't know how! I have some in mind, but I don't know who I contact in terms of scripts, music, fees, etc. I have found a couple sites. Is there anyway that "Mamma Mia" can be done? Is the script/music available to be rented by high schools? Where would I find it?

Thanks,
Heather  

Answer
Hi Heather,

You don't say if you are a student or teacher.  Most schools do have access to the major musical publishing companies and their catalogues, which should help you make a decision.

There is a wonderful book out called "Let's Put on a Musical" by Peter Filichia.  It is a "directory" of most of the major and minor musicals.  Each entry list the musical, its writers and history, a brief plot and character description along with the most recognizable songs from it.  It also lists the pros and cons of doing the show, how big it is, any technical, casting or musical problems it might entail, and where to find the publishing information on it.

Once you decide on which musical you want to do you must contact its publisher to arrange for permission to perform it, royalties, music and script rentals and other info you will need.  Most musicals are published by one of several companies, all of which can now be accessed online.  They are Samuel French (http://samuelfrench.com/store ), Tams-Witmark (http://www.tams-witmark.com ), MTI (http://www.mtishows.com/index.asp ), or the Rodgers & Hammerstein Theatre Library (http://www.rnh.com/theatre/index.html ).  Each of these has a catalogue online with synopses of their shows, song lists, etc.  You can contact them directly to find out about royalty info and the like.

As for "Mamma Mia", it is unlikely that it would be available for high school productions at this time.  Generally speaking, shows that are currently on Broadway or on National Tours are not available for amateur production.  They only become available once they close.  I've checked the publishers and I do not yet see it available from any of them.  You can try checking with them individually, but I think you'll have to wait until it closes on Broadway before they'll make it available for amateur production.

Hope this helps, Heather.  If you have any other questions, I'd be happy to try to answer them for you.

Best,
Arlene (MsDirector)