Question about the profits from cast recordings...

[Junior]

Posted: 12/6/07 at 5:34pm

I did a search, but found nothing that thoroughly answered my question:

Do actors who perform on cast recordings get a cut of the profits made from the sale of the album? And if so, for how long? I mean I know they get paid for recording the album, but is the pay a one time shot or do they continue to get a cut as long as the album is selling? For instance, would Lansbury and Cariou still be getting "royalties" or whatever from the Sweeney OBCR from the 70's?

This may be a rather common knowledge issue, but I've never really thought about it/ heard about it before. It seems like the actors should get at least a small percentage from the sales, but at the same time it seems like it would be ridiculously complicated to keep up with everyone for so long...

[MargoChanning]

Posted: 12/6/07 at 6:14pm

Actors/performers do not get royalties from cast albums. If I remember correctly, they get paid a flat fee that's the equivalent of one week's salary for every 8 hours in the recording studio.

[Junior]

Posted: 12/6/07 at 6:43pm

hmmm... that's what I figured... Kind of sucks for the actors, but at least they get something. Thanks Margo!

[baddadnpa]

Posted: 12/6/07 at 6:44pm

Do any cast recordings make money these days? Wicked and Jersey Boys maybe, but the majority don't.