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 $20.00 nonrefundable charge. The perusal package includes a script and a digital perusal score featuring excerpts from the songs. The digital perusal score will be sent via email and the script will be shipped to you. Both are yours to keep.

If you would like to order a perusal package please fax the perusal order form (click for perusal order form) to 212-206-1429 or scan and attach in an email to musicals@samuelfrench.com. We are unable to accept Purchase Orders for perusal packages. We can only accept checks and credit card payment for perusals.

Q: I have decided on a show. What do I do to get the licensing rights?
A: To obtain the rights to do a show, click on the Application for Performance Rights (Licensing Form) link in the information box located on the left hand side of this page. Fill out that form and submit it to us. If approved, you should receive a copy of the license within 3 weeks along with a 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, contact 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 need 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 DO NOT 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 licensing, rental and security deposit fees with a credit card?
A: After you are licensed, you will receive a credit card authorization form with your contract. We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover to pay for the licensing, rental and shipping fees. However, the security deposit MUST BE paid with a check or money order. 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 New York City or Los Angeles office?
A: NO, returns are not accepted in our NY or LA locations. When you are finished with your production, please contact your Musical Licensing Representative for a Merchandise Return Label. Your initial shipping fee includes return shipping for the material.

Q: My show is over and I returned my materials to the warehouse. When do I get my refund?
A: Please contact your Musical Licensing Representative for a Refund Request Form. Once we receive your returned rental material and your completed Refund Request Form, your security deposit will be processed within 4 to 6 weeks.