Music in dramatic and theatrical works
When using music in dramatic and theatrical works, you must secure the necessary permissions called grand rights. At Koda Dramatik, we're here to help you obtain the rights you need - whether it's a musical, ballet, opera, or revue.
First, determine whether you need to obtain permission directly from Koda Dramatik or if another party is responsible. This depends on the type of production you are creating.
Is the music composed specifically for the performance?
If you perform musical dramas or dance shows featuring music composed specifically for the production, you must obtain permission directly from the rights holders. If you use existing music originally created for another purpose, please request permission through Koda Dramatik. Request permission to use the music.
Is the music not composed specifically for the performance?
If you're producing a theater performance where the music wasn't specifically composed for the production, you only need to seek permission to use the music if:
- the production is associated with a 'brand' – for example, an artist, a band, a composer, or another well-known person.
- the songs help to carry the story forward.
- the production has a narrative and a) the duration of the music exceeds 30 minutes or 30 percent or b) the production includes eight songs or more.
- the production is a ballet or dance performance, or if the production contains more than 15 minutes of dance.
If your theater production does not include one or more of these elements, simply report your performance to Koda by obtaining a music license:
Here's how you gain access to use music
Apply well in advance
When using music in a stage production, you must submit an application for permission well in advance - preferably six months before the premiere. Your application should include a description of the production and a list of the songs you intend to use.
Apply for grand rightsKoda Dramatik will help you
At Koda Dramatik, we are processing your application. We are determining whether your music requests require permission and identifying the appropriate rights holders. In most cases, we can assist you in contacting the rights holders and publishers of the music.
Funding and grants
Each year, Koda Dramatik supports new Danish dramatic productions by awarding project funding and scholarships. You can apply for grants to perform new dramatic productions or apply for work and travel grants.
Apply for grantsMusic from Sony Music and Universal Music
Koda Dramatik has established agreements with Sony Music Publishing and Universal Music Publishing Group, enabling us to arrange the use of their music. We can grant permission for some of the music and direct you to the appropriate contacts for further permissions.
Music in Revues
When using existing music in a revue, you must first obtain permission and then pay the rights holders. Koda Dramatik can help you forwarding payments to the rights holders, reducing your administrative workload.
Annually, Koda Dramatik presents the Revue Composer of the Year and Revue Writer of the Year awards to foster the growth of Danish revue art. These awards are given at the Revue of Revues at Bakken, open to all participants.
Outstanding payments
Despite our extensive systems, we sometimes fail to identify all rights holders for musical dramas. If you think you are owed money, please email us at [email protected].
Grants for dramatic and theatrical works
Each year, Koda Dramatik supports new Danishdramatic and theatrical works by awarding project funding and scholarships.
Apply nowBecome a member of Koda Dramatics
As a member of Koda Dramatik, your interests are our priority. Membership is free if you are already a member of Koda. To join, simply email us with details of the musical dramatic works you have composed or written lyrics for.
As a Koda Dramatik member, you can continue managing your own performance rights. Should you prefer us to handle the rights management, this must be arranged for each specific performance.
Get to know Koda Dramatik
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Read about Koda Dramatik