Harbottle & Lewis LLP is well-versed in both the theatre and publishing sectors. Its theatre-focused team has long-standing expertise advising on West End productions, advising producers, theatre owners, not-for-profit companies, venues, and other industry bodies. The group has advised on notable musicals and plays launching and continuing production on the West End, and it has assisted rights-holders and producers with theatre opportunities. The team has also continued to expand its overseas presence, advising on international theatre projects. Neil Adleman leads the theatre team and has aided numerous clients with opening productions on Broadway and the West End. Newly promoted partner Harry Bresslaw is key to assisting producers and rights holders. Turning to the publishing practice, it supports clients with the legal implications of AI and other commercial issues; its client roster includes authors, literary estates, brands, publishers, rights holders, and literary agents, and the practice advises on a range of contentious and non-contentious matters. Shireen Peermohamed heads up the publishing team as an expert in commercial issues, AI, brand protection, enforcement, and copyright matters. Zoey Forbes is noted for her work on publishing agreements, cross-media rights acquisition, and exploitation.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team were excellent communicators — we were kept fully in the loop about progress at all times and never had to chase for information. All our queries were responded to promptly and in full. All work was produced to a very high standard and turned around according to tight deadlines.’
‘Shireen Peermohamed stood out for her commercial understanding, her level-headed assessment of the situation and the clarity with which she communicated her opinions/advice. She was willing to adapt her approach to best suit our needs and we had full confidence that the situation was being handled in the best possible way under her supervision. Daniel Prim handled the day-to-day work professionally and was responsible for much of the excellent communication on behalf of the team.’
‘The practice was efficient and helpful, and dealt with my requirements thoroughly and with meticulous attention to detail. Their advice was invaluable. I am entirely satisfied with my experience of Harbottle & Lewis.’
‘I dealt mainly with Zoey Forbes, and also Rosie Marston. Both were outstandingly helpful and efficient, and always most pleasant on a personal level.’
‘Fantastic team combining technical skills and brilliant industry knowledge.’
‘Their connections and integration within the theatre industry are unrivalled.’
Key clients
- National Theatre
- Sonia Friedman Productions
- The Old Vic
- Donmar Warehouse
- Punchdrunk
- Sadler’s Wells
- Playful Productions
- Michael Cassel Group
- Gorgeous Entertainment
- Wessex Grove
- Hachette UK
- #Merky Books Limited
Work highlights
Assisted Dunmanifestin with issues related to the publishing rights in the works of Sir Terry Pratchett.
Advised Cameron Mackintosh Limited on its revival production of Oliver! which ran originally in Chichester in Summer 2024 and opened in the West End in January 2025.
Advised Hachette on a range of commercial and IP matters, disputes, and commercial arrangements.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
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Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Neil Adleman; Shireen Peermohamed
Other key lawyers
Harry Bresslaw; Daniel Prim; Sam Purkiss; Zoey Forbes; Rosie Marston; Ed Lane