ABSTRACT
Almost every playwright has authored some kind of adaptation, whether from fiction or fact. The ideas or facts are not covered under laws of copyright. No one can own a fact; but the particularized expression of that idea is protected and is inviolate. Although it is more likely that playwrights will need to adapt from fact in their career as a playwright, based on the number of existing dramatic adaptations, the author discusses adapting from both fiction and fact. When adapting from fact, playwrights do their research, do their interviews, and then it is up to them to formulate the story. There is more room to maneuver in an original play based on fact, whether it is based on a particular incident or a period in history that serves as background for their play. The process of adapting from fact is a more complex and a more exciting prospect.
