For Writers
For those writers who wish to get involved with Readers Theater Television, there are a few things you should know:
- You must own the copyright to the script you want read.
- You will not receive any payment for the right to read your script. The reading is on a volunteer basis.
- You must be able to describe the characters and scenes to the readers.
- The reading does not constitute a contract to produce the script in any other format.
- All scripts are reviewed for suitability of the Readers Theater Television format.
- Some actors may perform more than one character.
- You will be required to provide script copies for the reading.
- You will be required to sign a release to allow the resulting taping to broadcast on Public Access TV.
Your commitment:
The basic production schedule is to:
- review the script to determine if it is suitable for Readers Theater TV format
- cast the characters
- have the writer meet the actors on rehearsal day - explain the script, answer questions, etc.
- rehearse the script in the studio
- tape an interview with the writer
- have the writer answer any more questions from the actors, prior to the reading - the day of taping
- tape the performance read in the studio
Scripts should be in 1 hour increments - approximately 60 pages per hour. The writer will get a copy of the reading.
Due to the limited budget, the writer will need to provide the script copies. The scripts can be printed on both sides of the page, but, otherwise, in standard screenplay script format. Stage plays should alter their format to be like screenplay scripts (it makes it easier to read during the performance).
The Performance Read:
The performance is recorded in a "live-to-tape" fashion using a 3 camera setup within the studio. As the performance proceeds, camera cuts are edited in and recorded directly onto a master tape. Stopping the taping at anytime due to incorrect reads is rare.
This puts plenty of pressure on the actor to be perfect within a limited time. However, we feel that the actors are up for the challenge.
The writer will have the opportunity to speak with the actors after the performance read about the script and the characters to obtain an actors point of view, but it is not required. Readers Theater has the right to broadcast the reading edited or not. All taped readings are intended for broadcast on public access television.
To submit a script, please send to the address listing on the About page.