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I‘m part of a small group of hobbyist producing an audio play podcast for fun. We don‘t make any revenue - no ads, no donations, no fees, no affiliate links. We have around 600 listeners.
Now we have come across a novella from the 60s which we would like to adapt into an audio play. The copyright owners seem to be the author‘s heirs, represented by an estate representative.
What would be a good way to ask the rights holders for permission?
I do X and I really enjoyed your novella Y. I would like to adapt it for the podcast. Please contact me so we can explore licensing options. Thank you and have a nice day.
Dale M's response is good, but I have one small tip.
The words "explore licensing options" could open Pandora's box; it might encourage them to charge a fee. I usually just ask for permission, period - even if I want to use an image in a commercial work. Usually, they say 1) "Go ahead and use it," 2) "Sorry, but we don't own the rights to that picture" or 3) "You can use it for $50."
If they charge a fee, then, of course, it's up to me to pay the fee or pass on that particular image. If it isn't in my budget, I thank them and explain why I can't use it. Sometimes I say "Thanks, but my budget is drained. However, I'll probably buy it and use it in a companion project I'm working on."
