There’s Much to Applaud in ‘The Cider House Rules’

Laurie Winer’s review of the excellent production of “The Cider House Rules” (“Flat ‘Cider,’ ” Calendar, July 13) at first leads one to believe that she did not bother to stay for the entire performance. On closer review, it seems she wasn’t sure what to expect from a lengthier piece of theater and so she settled on debating the issue the play is about rather than appreciating the fine performances that I enjoyed.

The play is thought-provoking, entertaining and showcases some of the best stage performances seen in recent years (particularly Michael Winters as Larch). One hopes that people are not put off of an excellent production based on her cursory review of a complex production.

LAURA J. MOREFIELD

Saugus

Winer only reiterates what can be read in the program notes and chooses to ignore little things like the acting, the production design and the state of the theatrical arts that are changing as a result of this innovative and challenging production.

MIKLOS FEJER

Los Angeles

“The Cider House Rules” does have its script flaws, but it also has vivid characters, potent social satire, genuine moral dilemmas and boundless, humane comedy.

RICHARD HORNBY

Pasadena

I certainly saw a much different play than Winer did. The play I saw was one of the best the Mark Taper Forum has done, and my experience extends to the very first productions there. The production I saw explored many things, from abortion, itself a painful and multidimensional topic, to family dynamics, race relations and personal relationships.

The audience at the production I saw gave a standing ovation at the end of Part 1 and at both the beginning and the end of Part 2. I am only sorry that Winer did not see the same production.

PAUL R. COOLEY

Culver City

I can only hope that people who read Winer’s myopic review will remember that she is the same critic who gave “Sisterella” a rave.

FREYDA THOMAS

Los Angeles