Performing Copyright: Law, Theatre and Authorship

This book explores performativity and authorship in the theatre world under copyright law, examining the history of dramatic works, authorship, copyright infringement, moral rights, and the reciprocal influence between law and practice. It proposes a ground-breaking empirical approach to study the implications of copyright law in society and makes a case for the need to consider the reciprocal influence between law and practice.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 232 pages
\n Publication date: 17 June 2021
\n Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
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This groundbreaking book delves into the intricate realm of performativity and authorship within the theatre world, shedding light on the complex issues surrounding copyright law. Through extensive empirical research, it addresses a multitude of interconnected questions, including:

Who holds the rightful position as the author and initial owner of a dramatic work?
Who deserves credit and the rights to license the work?
What rights do the performers of the play possess?
Given the inherent nature of theatre as a medium that relies on the re-use of existing works, tropes, themes, and plots, what transpires if an allegation of copyright infringement is leveled against a playwright?
Furthermore, who possesses moral rights over the work?

To provide a comprehensive evaluation of these questions within the context of theatre, the book proceeds in two parts. The first part explores the historical evolution of dramatic works, both as written texts and as performative art forms. It delves into legal and theatrical literature, as well as empirical research, to shed light on the complex dynamics of authorship and joint authorship under copyright law.

The second part delves into the realm of copyright infringement in the theatre, highlighting that cases of alleged theatrical infringement occur relatively less frequently compared to cases in the music industry. It examines the reasons behind this disparity, drawing upon empirical research to shed light on the unique challenges and considerations faced by the theatrical realm.

The third part examines the interplay of moral rights of attribution and integrity within the theatre context. It explores how these rights protect the integrity and reputation of the creative process, as well as the rights of performers and other stakeholders involved in the production.

In the concluding chapter, the book offers a prescriptive commentary on how law should respond to the challenges posed by the theatrical context, while also encouraging theatre practitioners to engage in meaningful dialogue with legal frameworks.

By adopting an empirical approach, this book pioneers a novel and transformative perspective on the implications of copyright law in society. It compellingly argues for the importance of considering the reciprocal influence between law and practice, fostering a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between artistic expression and legal frameworks.

This groundbreaking work is a valuable resource for scholars, practitioners, and anyone interested in exploring the intersection of copyright law, theatre, and artistic expression. It provides a comprehensive and insightful examination of the issues at hand, offering valuable insights and recommendations for navigating the complex terrain of copyright law in the theatre world.

\n Weight: 510g\n
Dimension: 164 x 242 x 20 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781509927036\n \n