WI - We are a non-profit 501c(3) group that gives performances to the public. We video tape the performance and produce a digital copy to archive for review purposes only. Several of the performers have asked to get a copy of the recording for their own personal reviewing. Can we legally produce a video recording to give to each member of a performance group for their own personal viewing without running afoul of the copyright laws?
Any guidance on this would be appreciated.
MFBrass, when you say "we video tape the performance," who exactly is this "we?"
What sort of performances are involved (music, songs, dance, plays)?
The answers to those questions can determine, in large part, who owns what rights and what permissions may be needed before you can legally make copies of the video for distribution to others.
You may want to sit down with an attorney in your area who can personally view the video taped performance, and go over the set-up of your group, and let you know what you need to do to produce recordings for everyone in your performance group without infringing on anyone's rights.
Good luck.
