The Stage

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Legal Eagle

The Public

Is my act suitable for children?
How do I determine whether or not my show is suitable for children above a certain age group? I don't want to risk legal action by angry parents.

Public decency
My street act is vulgar. There always seems to be some busybody watching purely in order to be shocked. They always "know their rights", so I should like to know, what are mine?

Unsuitable material (fees)
I hired a professional comic for our fete to perform a family show. His material was totally unsuitable and not what I was led to expect. Do I have the right to refuse him at least part of his fee?

Manhandling audience member
I attended a show, I was unlucky enough to be dragged on to the stage by the cast. For several minutes I was subjected to complete humiliation. Are actors allowed to do this?

Causing public obstruction
I am a street entertainer operating in a busy town. I frequently run into problems with shopkeepers and occasionally with the police. Can you tell me what rights, if any, I have?

Protection against juvenile crime
As outside performers, we suffer from the attentions of kids who steal the props and equipment. What action can we take if we catch a young thief or are assaulted by one?

Strobe lighting warnings
We wish to use a short strobe lighting effect for our forthcoming pantomime. What notification/warnings need to be made to the public?

Prosecution of drunk fans
Should we fear prosecution against rock concert-goers and comedy fans who have one drink too many in a public arena?

Public Liability Insurance
We make sets and scenery for amateur groups. We are now being asked if we can hire sets but need to know what public liability insurance we require.

Redress against noisy school parties
What comeback do I have when my enjoyment of a show is ruined by noisy school parties?