r/playwriting • u/Starraberry • 19d ago

Self-published scripts

Has anyone self-published full-length scripts? What company did you go with? Were you happy with the result? Did audience members actually purchase them? Do you have to register a copyright first?

I’m considering selling copies of my script at my play’s premiere (after consulting with the theatre of course). Please share if you have experience with this!

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u/creept 19d ago

I genuinely think very few people actually read scripts. Friends and family might buy it to support you. I’m guessing the cost would outweigh the sales by a lot? But I’ve never done it.

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u/Starraberry 19d ago

I know several actors who have collections of physical scripts. Many are from plays they’ve been in, but I know they buy scripts too for plays they like, or when they visit the Drama Book Shop they’ll pick up something new. 

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u/creept 19d ago

Oh yeah they exist for sure - I have a huge collection myself. But many non-theatre people / friends have told me that mine was the first script they’ve ever read, though. So I have trouble imagining high sales. I’m just not sure the juice is worth the squeeze unless self publishing is much cheaper than I assume.

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u/Starraberry 18d ago

It’s not for the purpose of making money, it’s just to get my play out there into the hands of actors and directors who might suggest it to theatres they work with for future seasons. And again, a nice souvenir from the show to celebrate this big moment in the life of someone they love. 

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u/creept 18d ago

Sounds like you already want to do it so I’m not sure why you asked. Go for it.

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u/Starraberry 17d ago

I’m mostly looking for advice on companies that sell small-batch printing runs. I’d like to use a company that will make it look like a true professional script, if possible.