I read this article in the NY Times yesterday, (Sunday Oct. 1.)
It is an example of why one should never sign anything unless they absolutely know exactly what is being signed.
It also shows how even a friend can cunningly take advantage of friends, especially in their youth. Remember, you own your work until you sell it/option it or you foolishly just give it away.
It shows how the phrase "Live for Art. Die for Art. Hope that Art pays you back," can be hampered by an agreement one has signed with no foresight or legal/agent advice and feel the unhappy consequences years afterwards. Even Neil Simon never made a dime off "The Odd Couple" television show!
It is a must read for any writer.
So, be careful out there!
Here is the link:
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/10/01/theater/01line.html?hp&ex=1159761600&en=fea73ca430466383&ei=5094&partner=homepage
If it does not work, go to the http://www.nytimes.com and you can search it up.
The article is occasioned by the 30th Anniversary revival of "A Chorus Line."
Another interesting thing to note: Joseph Papp, the original producer of the show, could have made personally something like 35 million dollars off the show. He did not. He poured it all back in to his theatre, The New York Shakespeare Festival.
How times have changed.
Sunday Octobedr 1.
in media resLast edited on Tue Oct 3rd, 2006 03:50 am by in media res
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