When community theatres, schools, and nonprofit organizations start planning a season, the conversation often begins with two major licensing companies: MTI and Concord Theatricals. While both offer extensive catalogs of popular titles, the play and musical rights can quickly strain a production budget. The good news? They’re not the only option.

If your theatre is looking for fresh material, lower licensing costs, or unique productions that stand out from neighboring organizations, there are several alternative sources worth exploring. Here are five places to find play and musical rights beyond the industry’s biggest licensing houses.

---

1. Public Domain Works

One of the most budget-friendly options is to produce material that has entered the public domain. Public domain works are no longer protected by copyright, meaning you can adapt, perform, and reinterpret them without paying licensing fees. Classic novels, fairy tales, myths, and many older plays fall into this category. Popular examples include:

• Dracula
• The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes
• Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland
• Pride and Prejudice
• A Christmas Carol
• Works of Shakespeare

While you’ll still need to create or purchase a script adaptation, eliminating royalty costs can significantly reduce production expenses. Public domain stories also provide creative flexibility, allowing theatres to modernize settings, add diverse casting opportunities, or create entirely original adaptations.

2. Team StarKid

If you’re looking for a built-in fanbase and contemporary appeal, consider productions from Team StarKid. Known for viral internet musicals such as The Trail to Oregon!, Twisted, and Firebringer, Team StarKid has cultivated a dedicated following through YouTube and digital streaming.

Unlike many traditional musical rights, StarKid’s catalog appeals strongly to younger audiences familiar with internet culture and fandom communities. Their shows often feature smaller casts, flexible staging requirements, and comedic storytelling that works well for community theatres and educational programs. They thrive on minimal sets, put-together aesthetic costumes, and custom props that are sure to create buzz.

3. Dramatic Publishing

Their catalog includes:

• Family-friendly productions
• Adaptations of classic literature
• Educational theatre titles
• New works by contemporary playwrights
• Smaller-scale musicals

For theatres seeking strong storytelling without the financial commitment of a major Broadway musical, Dramatic Publishing is often worth a closer look.

4. Independent Playwrights and Composers

Not every show needs to come through a licensing agency. Many independent playwrights and musical theatre writers license their work directly. Working with creators can sometimes offer greater flexibility in pricing, production requirements, and even script customization. Benefits of licensing directly from creators include:

• Supporting emerging artists
• Potentially lower royalty costs
• Unique programming opportunities
• Regional or local premieres
• Flexible production conversations

Organizations such as playwright directories, theatre conferences, and new works festivals can help theatres discover talented creators whose work hasn’t yet reached larger licensing companies. Producing an independent work can also help your theatre stand out in a crowded entertainment market.

5. Theatrical Rights Worldwide (TRW)

Although not as frequently discussed as MTI or Concord, Theatrical Rights Worldwide (TRW) has become a significant player in the licensing world. Their catalog frequently includes newer works alongside established favorites, making it a valuable resource during season planning. TRW offers a diverse catalog that includes:

• Broadway titles
• Family musicals
• Educational theatre productions
• Contemporary plays
• Adaptations of popular books and films

---

Expanding Your Theatre’s Options

Popular Broadway titles will always attract attention, but they aren’t the only path to a successful season. Exploring public domain works, independent creators, alternative publishers, and organizations like Team StarKid can help theatres reduce costs, discover unique stories, and create memorable experiences for audiences.

The best season isn’t necessarily the one with the biggest title. Sometimes it’s the one that fits your budget, your performers, and your community’s interests. By looking beyond MTI and Concord, your theatre may uncover hidden gems that become audience favorites for years to come.

Last Updated on: July 20, 2026