Wholesale Slamming

I’ve had the opportunity to look at Jan Herman’s review of the backstage theater production of “Jacques Brel Is Alive and Well and Living in Paris” (“ ‘Jacques Brel’ Is Alive, Well and Charming at Backstage Theatre,” June 26). While everybody has a right to their opinion, I think Mr. Herman’s review does a great disservice to community theater in this county. For example, he states:

“The attention given scores of variable amateur troupes--chiefly community theaters, college drama departments and one or two independent groups with high aspirations--may create the impression of thriving accomplishment. But, if truth be told, these troupes get more attention than they merit.”

I saw this play. For what it was, it was excellent. The staging was minimal, and it was primarily a collection of songs; very little acting was involved.

Mr. Herman’s statement that I quoted above does a tremendous disservice to all the men and women of the county who have put in countless hours and efforts to build and maintain what is an excellent reputation as one of the finest community theater organizations in the country. By way of example, Laguna Moulton Playhouse in Laguna Beach has won many awards nationwide for not only its productions but its writing as well.

This type of effort needs nurturing. I think, then, that Mr. Herman, while he is entitled to his opinions, shouldn’t slam wholesale everyone’s efforts here in the county to make a lasting contribution to theater here.

PAUL J. WEINBERG

Newport Beach