<p>Hello, all: I'm trying to create a webpage containing pictures, audiofiles and short videoclips of my college/community/regional theater performances. Someone suggested this violates copyright law? Any suggestions on how performers with web-based portfolios containing scenes from their shows were able to do this?.. Thanks!</p>
<p>Yes, it is true. Any recorded footage you have of your theatrical performances are, essentially illegal. There are a few shows for which one can gain permission to record - but I would bet you or your producer did not get permission. Do hundreds of folks record shows? - Yes - and it is still illegal. The rental houses do not avidly pursue high schools and small theaters - although the can. Putting on the net - especially for personal gain - takes it to a higher level of offense. Will they come after you - don’t know - but they might - then you will have to cease and desist and might be liable for a fine. Photos are another matter - you can use them all you want. There is a short amount of time you might use a clip under “fair use” provisions - check with a lawyer.</p>
<p>Thank you – this fits my impression of what things are “copyrighted.” I’m surprised that
many professional actors (with professional website designers) seem to be including clips. Does anyone know if the website designers would pursue the “rights,” as some copy centers do for written work?..</p>
<p>Fair use is a sticky issue. The bottom line is this. The rights to the production strictly prohibit it. However, clips online will most likely not be prosecuted. The rights houses (and copyright law) use the litmus test of “will this infringe on my ability to make money?” If the answer is yes, they will come after you, if the answer is no, they will likely leave it alone. That doesn’t make it legal. There will come a day when your work will be out there, will you want others to use it without your control or input? Just a thought.</p>