How to get a Pantomime Script Performance Licence
Getting a pantomime script Performance Licence from Nick Lawrence Pantomimes is a straightforward process, and this page walks through it step by step. At Nick Lawrence Pantomimes, we specialise in writing funny pantomime scripts for amateur theatre, performed all over the UK and internationally every year to full houses and raucous laughter, so we're sure we've got a script that's just right for your group.
You can read any of our scripts for free by requesting a Perusal Script, and once you've found a pantomime script you like, here's how the process works.
Step One: Request a Perusal Script
Before anything else, request a free Perusal Script. This gives you the full script to read in advance: you can check the jokes, count the roles, and make sure it suits your group before committing to anything. There's no cost and no obligation.
Some groups already know exactly which title they want; others read two or three Perusal Scripts before deciding. Either approach is fine, and we're happy to advise if you're torn between options.
Step Two: Apply for your Performance Licence
When you're ready to proceed, complete the application form on our Performance Licences page. You'll be asked for your performance dates, venue details, and expected audience numbers, which we use to work out your licence fee. Our Fees page sets out how that figure is calculated, so it's worth a look before you apply if you'd like the numbers upfront. If you're also budgeting for the wider production, our pantomime budgeting guide covers costs beyond the licence fee, from costumes to venue hire.
The application takes a few minutes. We aim to respond within five working days, though in practice we're usually quicker.
Step Three: Receive your invoice and contract
Once we've reviewed your application, we'll send you an invoice and licence contract by email. This sets out your performance dates, the agreed fee, and the terms under which you're licensed to perform the script.
Your licence includes a PDF copy of the script as standard. If you'd like an editable Word version (useful for annotating the script or making approved minor edits), an Editable Master Script is available as an optional addition.
Step Four: Sign, pay, and you're ready
Review the contract, sign it, and return it with payment. Once we've received both, we'll confirm everything and send your chosen pantomime script over. You're ready to start casting.
From there you can start planning and auditioning, and the real work of bringing your pantomime to the stage begins.
With the licence signed, you can start selling tickets. There's pantomime marketing copy for every title, written for audiences and ready to paste into your poster, programme, website, or Facebook page.
A note on Peter Pan
If you're licensing our Peter Pan script, there's one additional step. UK law grants Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) a special ongoing right in J.M. Barrie's work, which means productions of Peter Pan in the UK require a separate licence from Concord Theatricals on behalf of GOSH, in addition to the Nick Lawrence Pantomimes script licence. This applies to our script just as it does to every other Peter Pan adaptation. We'll flag this when you enquire and send you the relevant instructions.
Not sure which script to licence?
If you haven't settled on a title yet, our how to choose the right pantomime script guide is a good place to start. You can also browse the full catalogue or get in touch and we'll help you find the right fit. Got questions? Start on the home page which has lots of helpful links, or our FAQs might have the answers too.