Copyright What is not Protected
Not every work is protected by copyright, here are the exceptions
1. Title
A title to a play is not normally protected by copyright. However if the title is printedusing a special typeface or logo then it is protected by copyright.
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2. Passing Off
If a title to a show is choosen because it is similar to an existing show and the public book tickets becuase they
think they are going to see the original, then this can be classified as “passing off” which is illegal. For the majority of
amateur drama societies this is not an issue. The local community will be in no doubt what is on offer.
3. Idea
Ideas are not subject to copyright law. However once a play has been written on a particular idea it will be protected by copyright law and therefore cannot be copied without permission.
4. Passing of Time
Copyright only lasts for a defined period of time as defined in the relevant Act. In 1996 the period of copyright was extended to 75 years from the end of the year in which the author has died. When copyright expires on a work it enters the “public domain”. For sound recordings copyright lasts for fifty years.
| Copyright can seem like just another obstacle in the way of creative talent. Unfortunately it is vital that admin tasks such as copyright clearance and budgets are sorted before rehearsals start. Then the fun can begin. One of the more pleasant tasks is the selection and preparation of costumes. Here at moulinrouge-fancydress.co.uk we offer a fantastic selection of costumes and not only in the moulin rouge style. We have something for all ages and tastes. |