Dramatists Play Service (DPS) has acquired the global licensing rights to “McNeal.” The Ayad Akhtar drama is now available for licensing through DPS, an imprint of Broadway Licensing Global (BLG).
“Ayad Akhtar’s work is always fearless, always compelling, and ‘McNeal’ is no exception,” said BLG chief executive officer Ted Chapin in a statement. “This is a play that challenges, provokes and mesmerizes, and we are honored to bring it into the Dramatists Play Service catalog.”
“McNeal” follows famed author Jacob McNeal as he ruminates on the boundaries of artificial intelligence and authorship.
“Akhtar’s exploration of the intersection between literature and technology is both timely and profound,” added Dan Markley, BLG chief operating officer. “We look forward to seeing ‘McNeal’ resonate with audiences across the theatrical landscape.”
Following previews that began on Sept. 5, 2024, “McNeal” opened on Broadway on Sept. 30 at the Vivian Beaumont Theater. The Lincoln Center Theater production, which starred Robert Downey Jr. in his Broadway debut, completed its limited run on Nov. 24.
BLG’s other imprints beyond DPS include Broadway Licensing, Playscripts, Stageworks and Broadway on Demand. “McNeal” marks the third production to open on Broadway in the 2024-2025 season to be acquired by DPS; the organization recently added Cole Escola’s “Oh, Mary!” and Delia Ephron’s “Left on Tenth” to its catalog.
