Dramatists Legal Defense Fund Launches Censored Theatrical Productions Survey

The Dramatists Legal Defense Fund ("DLDF") released a survey on Thursday, February 25th that gathers information on theatrical productions that have either been challenged or cancelled due to topics of a sensitive nature (sexuality, violence, religion, etc.).

The DLDF will use the results of this survey as a tool to educate the public on the pervasive and dangerous nature of censorship.

In a statement appearing on their website, the DLDF writes:

"The Dramatists Legal Defense Fund believes that the advancement of our society relies on the unfettered expression of our words. In that spirit, we are creating The Defender, a database of dramatic works that have been challenged or censored in the United States. This new initiative is intended to serve many purposes. First, it will help to educate everyone about the subjective and transient standards that have been employed by censors. The Defender will also serve to highlight the shows that have overcome such challenges to persevere in the face of adversity. In addition, it will be a useful tool for research on the issue of free expression in America. Finally, it will cast a spotlight on the self-appointed moral watchdogs in our midst, and catalogue the common excuses they use to justify their oppressive activities. If you,know of a dramatic work (play or musical) that has been challenged (either successfully or unsuccessfully), we want to know about it. Please reply to the following questions and help us to shed a light on this critical issue affecting us all. Because words matter."

To access the survey, visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DLDFDEFENDER