Dramatic Use Rights

Music use is considered dramatic when it is an integral part of telling a story. Generally, the dramatic use of music also involves some type of staging. Operas, ballets and musicals are considered dramatic use of music and use of them in their entirety or substantial use requires the producer obtaining “grand” rights, including sync and performance rights. It is not considered dramatic use if a performer simply sings a song from “West Side Story.” However, staging a musical number that advances a story line would be considered dramatic use.