SCRIPT commissions
Original scripts available to commission
If you're a school or small performing arts group, you can commission me to write an original script for a production you are planning.
When you're teaching Drama, it can often be the most challenging task to find a play that's suitable for your class and students. Creating something original though is time consuming, and time is not something teachers have in abundance.
You may also be a theatre company who would like to produce something new and original, or have a concept you'd like to see realised.
I will work with you about your particular needs and develop a script that suits them.
How it will work
If you're interested in commissioning a script, send me an email with key details including:
- Cast size
- Required length
- The kind of show you would like to do
- Time frame
I will reply as soon as possible with any clarifying questions, and if I have availability to work with you within your desired time frame.
Once those details are worked out, you will receive a pitch summary of the script, a quote, and an agreement to sign if you choose to go ahead. Once the agreement is signed and deposit is received, I will then write the script and after its completion, you will receive a first draft.
You will be welcome to give feedback, and I will then spend time making adjustments and editing.
The final script will then be given to you as a digital download to copy as needed. At this point, final payment will be made. You can also order physical copies and an archival recording license for an additional fee.
No further charges from ticket sales or the box office will be required, though a complementary ticket to the show would be welcome, and a copy of the program must be provided.
About me and my writing
I have been a performing arts teacher for over fifteen years, and written several scripts for young people aged 4-21 years old. This includes adaptations, musicals, comedies, dramas, skits, fairytales, monologues, short scenes and a variety of other styles of show.
I have adapted several well-known stories into musicals or plays such as Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan and A Christmas Carol.
I have also written original plays, from 10 minute short scenes to full length shows. Many of these were developed with students, who workshopped an initial premise or provided me with characters they wanted to play.
Wilde & Darling's premiere play was Delayed, a script I wrote and directed. My original show Goddess Era was shortlisted for the Holden Street Theatre Fringe Award in 2023.
I have also written skits and videos for school celebration events, that might parody particular students, teachers, or events that occurred throughout the school year.
More detail about my work, background and experience can be found in the 'About' section of this website.
Please feel free to request to see samples of my work.
Limitations
Due to time restraints, I will only be able to take on a certain number of these commissions throughout the year. After your initial inquiry, I will be upfront about whether it will be possible for me to take on your commission.
If your proposed idea, premise or parameters are also not within the scope of something I am willing or able to take on, you will be honestly informed of that during the inquiry process.
I reserve the right to not include any content in your show that I am not comfortable with or that is deemed offensive, particularly to marginalised or disadvantaged groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please reach out at sarah@wildeanddarling.com.au if you cannot find an answer to your question.
My specialty is plays for a young cast, from pre-schoolers to adolescents, both original stories and adaptations of well-known texts such as Aladdin, The Secret Garden and Little Women. I have also developed original scripts based on a simple initial premise, or from workshopping ideas with students.
I am write anything from short monologues, skits, one-act shows, to full length plays. I can do comedy, drama, and most things in between.
If you would like to see samples of my work, please don't hesitate to ask.
An initial deposit of $100.00 is to be be paid upon the signing of the initial agreement to commission the script. This does not go towards the final fee.
During the early inquiry and consultation process, you will be given a quote for the additional final fee for proposed project. This fee covers the commission of the work and the subsequent performance rights, and is to be paid on submission of the final script. This fee will vary depending on the scope of the project, but here is a rough guide of minimum costs:
10-20 minute scenes $50.00
One Act Play (30-60 minutes) $150.00
Two Act Play (90 minutes-2 hours) $250.00
2 hours+ $300.00
All fees listed are in $AUD.
If I have the time and availability, absolutely.
If you are located in South Australia, I can potentially come in for some workshop time for an additional fee. This is very dependent on whether I am logistically able, but being able to meet you and the cast would be helpful if it's something we can possibly arrange.
If you are interstate or overseas, a video conference call could be arranged.
It is not a requirement though, and we can find other ways of connecting to make sure the final project is something that suits all involved.
You need to have at least a rough outline of the kind of show you would like to do. This could be as simple as "a 60 minute comedic show, with a cast of five Year 11 students." It could also be a fully fleshed out concept with a list of characters, or an idea such as a modern adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. If you are stuck, feel free to let me know and I can provide you with some suggestions for how to work out a starting point for you and your cast so I have something to work with.
I can, as long as I have the rights to do so. Fairytales, ancient myths and similar folk stories can be adapted, as can classic texts in the public domain. I will not be able to obtain the rights to any text that exists with a pre-existing copyright.
No. Final copyright of the script will be mine. However, you will have exclusive performance rights all the way through your rehearsal and production period. You will have the world premiere! After this, I will retain copyright of the script and reserve the right to licence it to other groups following your season if the content is appropriate.
This, again, entirely depends on the scope of the project. As a rough estimate, please allow approximately six weeks from the initial consultation until the draft is sent to you. I will always aim to have things done sooner, particularly if the project is a smaller one. Deadlines will be clearly outlined in the commissioning agreement.
I understand that things can come out in rehearsals and workshopping that might make you want to make changes to the script. Slight adjustments to wording of lines is acceptable, but any major changes to the plot or character needs to be approved by me beforehand.
No. The fee is paying for my time to write the script. Early in the consultation process we will agree upon the initial premise, and you may request samples of my work if you would like. Once I have been commissioned to write the script and the fee has been paid, there are no refunds available. If you decide not to produce the show, that is your right to do so and there is no commitment from you to use the script you've commissioned.
If you reject the script and choose not to produce it, I retain the rights and may license it to other groups in the future.
Easy! Send me an email with your requirements, and I will get back to you with my availability. Once the premise and parameters of your show have been established you'll receive a quote. If you are satisfied with this, we will sign an agreement, and once I've received your fee, I will start writing!
Email me at sarah@wildeanddarling.com.au or fill in the inquiry form below.