There are always a lot of questions in regard to what music can be used in pantomime. Below are a few useful contacts and information to help you navigate the wonderful world of music copyright!
The Music Licence - PPL / PRS
This is the main licence for music usage in the UK. PPL PRS control the copyright for the majority of music that you will look to perform. If you perform in a venue that is not your own, odds are they already have a Music Licence in place. If you run the venue, you will be responsible for music usage.
For pantomime, music will come under the Variety Shows section. It is always advantageous to submit your song list in advance to PPL PRS, as you may be entitled to a discount!
For more information click here
Disney Songs
It is actually possible to use some Disney songs in your shows, although not in the same context as the film (the same as when using songs from musicals). You will need to contact Disney directly (as early as possible, as it does take sometime for a response). There are limitations to the Disney licences, so please check well in advance by using the email address in the link below.
For more information click here
ABBA / Grease
Music by ABBA or from the film/musical Grease is not available for performance in pantomime
Please remember, if you do not have the correct licence in place for your show, you will be liable to be sued by the music owners. It does not matter what size group you are - we have had groups that have said it won't matter because they are a very small group and have subsequently been taken to court.
In our PantoScripts, all song suggestions are purely suggestions, you will need to check the availability and the correct licence for the songs prior to rehearsals.
Photocopying sheet music
The Amateur Group Singing Licence allows amateur theatre group members to make photocopies of works and also permits minor arrangements (e.g. change of key) to suit the voices of the group. The licence is applicable where an amateur theatre group is copying music used in the rehearsal and performance of a Variety Show or similar (as part of the Amateur Theatre activities).
With the PMLL Amateur Group Singing Licence you can easily and legally make copies of songs without contacting publishers individually (please check the publisher list to find out which publishers are included in this licence). This licence does not cover the copying or performance of whole musicals, permission for this would need to be obtained direct from the publisher.
For more information click here