How does one obtain the rights to legally play copyrighted music in a
themed attraction (that is, a walk-through theatrical show such as a
haunted house, which is operated for profit?)  I am aware that ASCAP
licenses these sorts of rights, but not "synch" rights... however, I
don't understand if a themed attraction fits under the "synch" rights
category the way a film or video would.

And how does playing copyrighted music in a themed attraction differ
from simply having a CD player on in the corner of a retail store,
playing a CD of copyrighted music for customers to listen to while
they shop?  Or is there a difference at all?  I've been in hundeds of
small stores where there was a copyrighted CD being played, yet I
can't imagine that all those storeowners actually obtained the rights
to legally perform that music in a commercial setting.  Is there a law
involved here that technically should be followed, but in reality,
almost nobody bothers?

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Clarification of Question by floridaguy-ga on 24 Feb 2004 14:39 PST

I've doubled the price for this question, with the hopes of increasing
my chances of getting an answer.  Thanks!

In stores, typically they are playing special radio stations...and the
radio stations deal with the copyright.

Kriswrite

There is a fine line on what the public can hear at stores. BMI/ASCAP
and the recording industry will want $$ if you play a station at a
convience store. My suggestion is to start with the BMI and/or ASCAP
web site.