About the book

This unique guide – the first ‘how-to’ book of its kind on the subject – offers comprehensive, clear advice to anyone producing or selling a show, whatever the venue or scale. Packed full of insights and tricks of the trade, it will give you the inspiration and confidence you need – whether you are taking your first steps in the profession or simply want to know what it takes to get a show on the stage.

Drawing on his own experience as a producer of theatre productions at every level – from university, via the fringe, to the West End – James Seabright takes you through each stage of the process:

• Having an idea for a show or getting the rights to an existing one
• Planning your budget and raising the money
• Booking your venue or a tour
• Marketing and selling the show effectively
• Getting the production designed, rehearsed and onto the stage

From the fundamental (dealing with contracts) to the frivolous (how to organise your first-night party), every aspect is explained with the help of illuminating examples. There is also a wide-ranging appendix and a companion website with downloadable contract templates, marketing packs and budget spreadsheets.

‘Commercial theatrical production requires a combination of optimism, acumen and a dose of good fortune. It also requires a great deal of complicated background information. Seabright’s book is that rare combination – a perfect handbook for beginners and a useful aide memoire for those of us who’ve been at it for years.’ Nicholas Allott, Managing Director, Cameron Mackintosh Ltd

‘When was a book about how to be a producer a page-turner? That is what this is – and it is essential reading for anyone contemplating a life in the theatre fast lane.’ Thelma Holt

James Seabright is one of the UK’s leading independent theatre producers. He has produced over one hundred shows in the West End, on UK and international tours and at the Edinburgh Festival, where he is the most prolific producer on the Fringe. In 2010, The Stage named him in its list of the hundred most influential people in British theatre.

Contents

• The Role of the Producer
• Conceiving a Show
• Creating a Budget
• Getting the Rights
• Raising the Money
• Dealing with Venues
• Touring Your Show
• Marketing Your Show
• Public Relations
• Creatives and Crew
• Casting Your Show
• Going into Production
• Opening and Running a Show
• Managing the Money
• What Happens Next?
• Appendices: Websites Referenced in Text, Other Useful Online Resources, Glossary