Theater smarting from harsh review
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IN THE 13 years that I have served as chairman of the board of trustees of the Huntington Theatre Co., I have never seen a more negative review than that written by Louise Kennedy last month ("Sunken treasure," Living/Arts, May 22) in regard to our current production of "Pirates!" Not only does she berate the audience for their "hooting and hollering," but she misses the point of presenting an evening of wonderful singing, dancing, and acting just for its pure enjoyment, particularly in a time of economic uncertainty and doubt.
Of the more than 60 online responses to her review, all but two were extremely positive about the show, and seven other reviewers have described the play in raving terms, urging the public to attend. Unfortunately, in a near monopoly market, The Boston Globe disproportionately shapes public opinion and, therefore, enormously affects ticket sales. While Kennedy is entitled to her opinion, I urge the Globe to report that her opinion does not represent the view of other reviewers or the vast majority of those in attendance who "hooted and hollered" constantly during the production.
J. DAVID WIMBERLY, Wellesley
