Setting the stage for new voices in theatre
Stagescripts Ltd is a leading independent publisher and rights-holder for plays and musicals, proudly supporting both emerging and established writers. With a focus on originality, accessibility and professional service, we specialise in licensing stage works to amateur and professional theatre companies across the UK and internationally.
Empowering writers, supporting productions
We’re passionate advocates for new and original stage writing. Our catalogue includes a wide range of titles – from full-scale musicals to small-cast plays – all carefully selected for their performance potential and artistic value. At Stagescripts, we believe in making the licensing process straightforward and supportive, working closely with writers to champion their work and with theatre companies to bring those works to life. Our team combines industry experience with a personal approach, helping to bridge the gap between creativity and commercial opportunity.
"Our mission is to provide a platform that empowers theatre communities to discover, license, and perform bold new plays beyond the commercial mainstream."
- David Waters, founder
1998
Foundations & first steps
Stagescripts Ltd began its journey as a small, family-run business with a big ambition - to bring original plays and musicals to a wider audience.
The very first titles were signed into a growing catalogue in 1998, marking the start of a publishing adventure. Although these early years were modest, they laid the essential groundwork.
Four years later, the business took a significant leap forward under the name Plays And Musicals, when it began expanding its catalogue and forging new relationships with writers and creatives.
In 2007, a major milestone was reached when the company was formally incorporated as Stagescripts Ltd. At that point, the assets of Plays And Musicals were purchased for £1, giving the new entity a strong and stable platform from which to grow and thrive.
2012
A growing voice in the industry
By the early 2010s, Stagescripts Ltd had already gained traction as a serious player in the world of theatrical licensing. In 2009, Managing Director David Waters sat down with theatre consultant Chris Grady - former Head of International Licensing at Cameron Mackintosh Ltd - to chart a bold and strategic future for the company. Impressed by the vision, Chris joined the Board, bringing valuable experience, industry insight, and a rich network of contacts. His continued work through the CGO Institute has helped forge connections across the global theatre landscape.
Another pivotal moment came in 2012, when Caroline Underwood joined the Board. Caroline brought a wealth of experience from her years leading the licensing department at Warner Chappell, followed by roles at Alan Brodie Representation and later her own agency for writers, composers, and directors. Her leadership and expertise significantly strengthened the company’s offering. Caroline had also served as Chair of Mercury Musical Development and, alongside Warner Brown, co-founded the S&S Awards - an initiative they evolved into S&S Theatre Productions, further deepening her impact on the industry and on Stagescripts.
2024
A new chapter begins
In 2024, Stagescripts Ltd entered a new phase of growth and leadership with the acquisition of a controlling interest by Chris Chambers and Nicky Chambers. This strategic move brought fresh energy and direction to the company, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing and promoting new theatrical works. With the addition of Chris and Nicky to the management team, Stagescripts is now better positioned than ever to evolve with the industry, support its writers, and champion exciting new talent across the stage. Their involvement marks the beginning of an ambitious new chapter in the company's ongoing story.
Our team
David Waters
Founder & Chief Operating Officer
Chris Chambers
Managing Director
Nicky Chambers
Sales Director
Established for over 25 years
Bringing undiscovered scripts to the stage
Always hand-selected scripts
High-quality customer service
Run by actors, directors & producers
Discover your perfect stage script
Whether you're a theatre company looking for your next production or a director searching for something fresh and original, our carefully curated catalogue makes it easy to find the right fit. From powerful plays to memorable musicals, we represent a wide range of high-quality scripts written by talented voices from across the UK and beyond. Explore by genre, cast size or theme - and discover a script that’s ready to shine on your stage.
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