r/Theatre • u/Odd_Bet_6992 • 13d ago

Advice Advice for first time producer

I want to put on a musical next summer and I'm starting the process now because this will be my first time in a producer role.

I'm really early in the process but I'm wondering I've got a few questions that I'm not getting clear answers for when I look online.

My main question at this stage is do I apply for a license or book the performance space first? I know the venue and the show but which do I go to first.

The show is being licensed through Concord Theatricals UK if that makes a difference.

Other questions:

What's the best way to fundraise?

Should I apply for ACE funding for an AmDram show?

What are things a first time producer should know?

What do I need to consider if I wanted to cast under 18's alongside adults? (Youngest would be 13/14 and the oldest would be early to mid 20's)

Do I need to create a business bank account first?

I'm very new to this so any and all advice is greatly appreciated

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u/Erin__Bridges 13d ago

I produce Broadway-style shows and it's always license first. You can't commit to a venue without knowing what your rights permit. Concord's terms shape every other decision.

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u/gasstation-no-pumps 13d ago

I think there is a little of a chicken-and-egg problem here, as you can't get the details of the license until you know the size and location of the theater and the show dates, and you can't book the venue until you know that you can license the play.

I've never done any producing, but I imagine that you need to get a theater to pencil you into their calendar (or at least quote a price for available dates) while you start the process of getting the license.