Another ‘Riverdance’ Fan

As a native of Ireland and an inheritor of its “unique and passionate culture,” I want to thank Martin Landau for his excellent article (“Defending ‘Riverdance’--As If It Needs It,” Counterpunch, Nov. 25).

Landau spoke for all lovers of Irish art and culture when he wrote that “ ‘Riverdance’ is an enthralling expression of the glory of the human spirit and of the power of art to convey beauty.”

I can appreciate Landau’s feelings and the exuberance and enthusiasm of all those who watched “Riverdance” and responded over and over again with thundering applause and standing ovations. I can only say that the show plus the audience was a thrilling experience for me.

Perhaps Times critic Lewis Segal didn’t understand the symbolism of the lighthouse or the poignant song of farewell of the emigrants or the Ceili--a get-together with music and dance--that took place when people with heavy hearts prepared to leave their homeland for strange and faraway places. Those of us who are Irish and emigrants understand all that “Riverdance” symbolized and said about our Celtic culture and intercultural relationships.

SISTER TERESA McMAHON

St. Joseph Convent

Long Beach