AboutBeth Expertise I can help you troubleshoot your playwriting process. I am an NEA award-winning
playwright, with work produced across the country. I studied extensively with Edward
Albee, and currently teach a playwrighting workshop in LA. I can`t read your play for
you, but I can help you with basic playwrighting theory, and exercises to get you in the
right direction.
Question Hello Beth,
Myself and a friend are writing a play about a historical figure (17th c). Would we need to secure any rights or permission before producing it? Also, do we have any legal obligation to make sure the content is entirely factual?
Thank you,
Aoife
Answer Hi Aoife!
This is a question you may want to confirm with a legal expert, but I do not believe you need any clearance for a person who has been gone for so long. You may want to check and see if their estate is still controlled by someone.
I think generally when you have a historical figure it goes to public domain and you can do with their story what you want, as long as there isn't someone who controls their estate and could sue you for defamation.
Again, I am not a legal expert at all. But that's my common sense on that one. Hope it helps. I imagine there is a legal expert somewhere on here who could tell you.
