FAQ  - Amateur Musicals

Canadian customers please be advised that ticket prices on your application must be converted and filled out in USD. In addition, quoted licensing fees in your musicals contract will be in USD.

Q: I am interested in doing a musical, but I would like to see some of the music and a script first. What do I do?
A: You would request a perusal package.
We have a new perusal policy. Perusals are a $30.00 nonrefundable charge. The perusal package includes a script, a highlights score featuring excerpts from the songs, and a chorus book (when available.) You may keep the script*, however any rented music material must be returned to our warehouse after 14 days. There will be a return label provided with the material sent. Please be sure to keep this and use it when you return the material to us. -    Name of Show

*The following titles do NOT have scripts available for purchase. These scripts must be returned with the chorus book and highlights score. A full perusal fee still applies:
PETER PAN
THE ME NOBODY KNOWS
ZORBA
70, GIRLS, 70

We are unable to accept check or Purchase Orders for perusal packages. We can only accept credit card payment for perusals (click for credit card authorization form). Link PDF of Credf form

If you wish to receive a perusal order form (click for perusal order form), please email musicals@samuelfrench.com with the following information:

• Name of organization
• Dates of performances
• Shipping address (NOT a P.O. Box)
• Average Ticket Price
• Average number of seats that will be sold for one performance

If your perusal material is not returned within the 14 perusal period, you will be subject to additional rental and/or late fees.

Q: I have decided on a show. What do I do to get the rights?
A: To obtain the rights to do a show, click on the ‘Royalties Form’ link in the information box located on the left hand side of this page. Fill out that form and submit it to us. You can also print out the form and fax it to 212-206-1429 Attn: Musicals. If approved, you should receive a copy of the license within 3 weeks along with an MATERIAL ORDER FORM and CREDIT CARD PAYMENT FORM. If you still have not received your license or a response from us and need further assistance, the musical department at musicals@samuelfrench.com or by calling 212-206-8125 or 866-598-8449..

Q: I have obtained a license through Samuel French. When will I get my materials?
A: Once all the fees that are listed in your license and shipment information form have been paid IN FULL, you will typically receive the materials 8 weeks prior to your opening performance.

Q: I have a license but I need my materials earlier than the 8 weeks. What do I do?
A: When applying for a license, you can choose either an 8, 12 or 16-week rental period. You can also obtain materials early by filling out the MATERIAL ORDER FORM included with your license. There, you would fill in what materials you needed and how early you need them. Once the appropriate fees have been paid IN FULL, we can send you your requested materials.

Q: Why have I received all my music, but no libretti (scripts)?
A: In most cases, scripts DO NOT come with your rental package and need to be purchased separately. In the second step of the MATERIAL ORDER FORM that was included with your license, you can specify how many scripts you need. You can also purchase scripts online through our website with a credit card or purchase order.

Q: I work at a school and I want to pay for my royalty, rental and deposit fees with a purchase order (P.O.). How can I do so?
A: Unfortunately, we NO LONGER accept purchase orders as a method of payment. Upon request, we can create an invoice to present to your department so your institution can send a check.

Q: Can I pay my royalty, rental and deposit fees with a credit card?
A: Yes. After you are licensed, you will receive a credit card authorization form with your contract. We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.  In order to pay your fees by credit card, you will need to fill out the form, sign it, and return it to our office. A signature is required for the transaction and the information cannot be taken over the phone. We also continue to accept check and money orders for royalty, rental, and deposit payments..

Q: I need to change some of the information that is on my license (ex. number of performances, dates of performances, ticket price, etc.). How do I go about doing so?
A: If you need to change something in your license, you must submit the change to us IN WRITING. You can fax, email or regular mail the changes to us. Please make sure to include all your information so we know what organization you represent and in reference to what show.

Q: I need to send my materials back and I cannot seem to find the return address. Can I send them to the Manhattan office?
A: NO. All materials need to be returned to the warehouse. There will be a return label provided with the material sent allowing for easy return of your rental package.  Please be sure to keep this and use it when you return the material to us.
The address for returned materials is:
Samuel French Warehouse – Hurleyville
206 Main Street
Hurleyville, NY 12747
Please make sure to include in the package your invoice or a letter stating what organization you are from and what should be in the package.

Q: My show is over and I returned my materials to the warehouse. When do I get my refund?
A: Upon confirmation of the return, you should receive your refund 1-2 months later. If you would like to speak to someone regarding a refund, please call us at 212-209-8990 or 866-598-8449 ext. 150