To the editors:
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As an avid theatergoer and longtime “reader” of your publication, I am writing to point out a disturbing and ongoing trend evident among those charged with criticizing local theatrical productions and the work of the various professionals involved in local theater. While all Reader reviews include the words “in this production,” generally there is little if any mention made of a production’s technical aspects. Glaring examples of “criticism by omission” can be found in the November 12 edition of the Reader. In all, 12 productions are reviewed by eight critics. Only two devote more than a sentence or two to the lighting, sound, staging, choreography, or costuming. Of the dozens of technical professionals involved in these plays, only three are mentioned by name.
I have no personal axe to grind. I am not in any way involved in local theater. However, over time I have had the opportunity to meet several local theater professionals and I sympathize with their frustration that their efforts often go unnoticed, and therefore unappreciated. I believe that your readership is better served by including criticism of all aspects of a production, good and bad, in Reader reviews.
