Headline, Review at Odds

I am an avid San Diego “theatergoer,” and I am writing to you in regards to Nancy Churnin’s review of the Gaslamp Quarter Theater’s production of “The Wake of Jamey Foster,” on June 2. It was clear that Churnin thought it a better production than the headline writer did:

“There is charm personified in Pixrose Wilson. . . .”

”. . . being a Henley play, even the ruminations of death are funny at times. And insightful. And healing.”

“Robert Earl creates a smashing, split-level structure for the house. . . .”

”. . . the widow’s speech to the body is quite beautiful. . . .”

I have also recently seen this production, and I agree with Churnin. It was marvelous! However, the headline, “The Wake’s a Play That Deserves to Be Put to Rest,” does quite a disservice to both the production and Churnin’s work itself. After glancing at the headline, readers may fail to continue on with the article. Churnin’s review was not nearly as degrading as the headline implies.

Very few people realize that headlines are not created by the actual reviewer, and I therefore feel it important that the headline closely reflect the work that it entitles.

ALISON LAVENTHOL

San Diego