Praising Supertitles
Having donated the supertitle equipment used by Opera Pacific, we are appalled to read Martin Bernheimer’s constant attacks on the use of this equipment. Practically every time he reviews Opera Pacific, he manages to carp on this.
The use of supertitles has made opera accessible to significant numbers of people who would not otherwise be privy to intricacies of the libretto.
Not everyone (this includes us) has access to the musical background or possesses the linguistic skills that Mr. Bernheimer has.
His constant bad-mouthing smacks of elitism. We applaud Opera Pacific for their outreach and hope they continue the utilization of these wonderful aids to enjoying fine opera.
CELIA & CLARENCE TURNER
Newport Beach
Martin Bernheimer responds: If the operas were performed in English--good translations, carefully articulated--there would be no need for supertitles, and the audience could devote undivided attention to the singers.
* MORE LETTERS: F4
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