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 (PDF 186kb) 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 instances, Phonographic Performance Company of Australia (PPCA) may be able to assist, depending on the circumstances.
Contact PPCA via email [email protected]
Does your production include Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property?
Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP) refers to the rights of Indigenous peoples to protect their cultural heritage. This includes stories, songs, dances, ceremonies, sites, and traditional knowledge.
These rights give Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities control over how their cultural heritage is preserved, shared, and used. ICIP can also be referred to as “Cultural Heritage”.
Permissions for the use of certain works, including those with cultural significance, must be obtained directly from the appropriate people. Please ensure this process has been completed before you apply for your DC licence.
The National Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Music Office can provide support and guidance where appropriate to help music users engage responsibly and respectfully with Indigenous cultural materials.
For more information on ICIP, please visit Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP) - Arts Law Centre of Australia
In this information sheet, Arts Law explains what Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property is and what it covers.
For more information on consultation, consent, and permissions, please visit Creative Australia’s Protocols for using First Nations Intellectual Property in the Arts.
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.
Want to print out this information?
Download your copy of the licence information guide (PDF 772 KB).
This webpage is a guide only. Refer to the licence for full terms and conditions.
Related information
APRA AMCOS alternatives
There are a couple of ways to get permission to use music in your video.
Comments and complaints
We care about the service we give you and we welcome your feedback.
Disputes
If you do not agree with how we apply this licence to your business, with our fees, or with any of our services, you can raise a dispute.
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