FAQ  - Amateur Musicals

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. A perusal is a 10-day temporary rental of the materials. A perusal is available for all musicals and all requests must be submitted in writing. Please include a $75 refundable deposit* with a letter including the following information:
-    Name of Show

• 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

*Shows that DO NOT require a deposit are:

• Grease
• Chicago
• Peter Pan
• The Wiz
• Secret Garden
• How To Eat Like A Child
• Rocky Horror
• Nunsense

You have 10 days from the day you receive the package to review the materials. Then, send back the materials to the address provided. Upon confirmation of the return, we will subtract the shipping and handling fees from the deposit and refund you the rest of the money. Perusal requests that do not require a deposit can be faxed (212-206-1429) or emailed (musicals@samuelfrench.com) to Attn: Kimberly and you will be invoiced for the shipping and handling. If you still need assistance regarding a perusal, please call Kimberly Maas at 212-206-8990 ext. 146.

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: Chris. If approved, you should receive a copy of the license within 3 weeks. If you still have not received your license and need further assistance, please contact Chris Lonstrup at 212-206-8990 ext. 142.

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 SHIPMENT INFORMATION FORM that was mailed 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 field of the SHIPMENT INFORMATION form, 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: No. Fees can ONLY be paid with a check or money order. We cannot accept credit cards as a form of payment. The only purchase you can make with a credit card is for a libretto (script).

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 you information so we know what organization you represent and in reference to what show.

Q: My show is currently in rehearsal/running, and I keep receiving invoices for shipping and handling fees. Do I need to pay those now?
A: No. Our system automatically generates invoices when there is money due. Those fees will automatically be paid with your DEPOSIT when the run of your show is over. You only need to inquire about an invoice if your show is over and you have RECEIVED YOUR REFUND, and you are STILL receiving invoices.

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. The address 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 ext. 150