I am writing to take issue with Perry Tannenbaum, the Loaf's theatrical reviewer. From what I understand from most in the theatre community (on all levels), there is a particular loathing for this gentleman for he has (and I quote here)"...about as much an eye for theatre as a bat at noon." At first I questioned such a summation for a person who has been writing for some time about theatre, so I took it upon myself to do the research by looking into the Loaf's archives. Indeed what I found seems to be something along these lines: A critic who, unfortunately, has very little to say about theatre, whether it is from his lack of knowledge of theatre or lack of personality I cannot be sure. What I carry away from his writings are, that theatre here in Charlotte makes good acting happen in a vacuum and the more absurd and fast-paced the comedy the better.
With the exception of a few, no local actor, director, or designer seems to be "up to snuff" for this tired commentator. After reading a good many reviews, I'm not even sure if I should be viewing such droll performances at the locals here. However, since I am someone who enjoys theatre, from here on his often tepid summing up of performances will be skipped. I know a good many people who have already done this. My suggestion to the Loaf is to think about reviewing the reviewer and move to doublecast the part.
-- James M. Earle, Charlotte
The Christian Fright
I don't know whether to be amused or frightened by Jason from El Paso's letter ("Quinn Must Not Be Christian," June 9). What he meant by "believing in" evolution, John Kerry and CNN was beyond me. This alleged military officer apparently thinks that he can eliminate scientific theories, presidential candidates and news networks through his purity of faith. I doubt our Founding Fathers would compare starting a new democratic nation with the selfish desires of a minority of home-schooling parents to insulate their children from the real world. This sounds like more of the far-right's tactic of taking an extreme moral stand for which they know they'll be asked to make no sacrifice, and then patting themselves on the back for speaking out against an immoral secular majority.
The scary part of this supposed sentinel of freedom's rant was the segregating of his duty between protecting "Christian citizens" and the rest of us unwashed heathens. If Jason is truly a US military officer, he is not permitted to differentiate in his obligations. The Constitution demands that all Americans be treated equally, regardless of race, creed or religion. That means each member of the armed forces must shelve his or her personal bigotries and prejudices once donning their uniform in defense of those Constitutional protections. If Jason really feels that some Americans are less worthy of protection because they don't subscribe to his beliefs, then he should be discharged from the service immediately. He doesn't "lay my life on the line" for freedom of the press. That right was earned long ago, by heroes dead for decades. Jason is supposed to be defending the rights we the people demand for the future. Judging from his comments, he is not up to this vital task.
-- Michael Clark, Charlotte
Support Troops, Not The War
I just read the Jimmy Massey article ("I Killed Innocent People," by Paul Rockwell, June 2) and all I can say is wow. The interview totally blew me away. I knew it was bad over there, but how can people not compare Iraq to Vietnam? How many of our soldiers will return from Iraq scarred from their experiences, forever changed, damaged spiritually? It saddens me, sickens me and my heart goes out to Mr. Massey and our troops.
I have refused to buy one of those magnetic ribbons for my car that says I support the troops, because I don't support this war. But reading Mr. Massey's interview has changed my mind. I do support our troops and that is why we must vote Bush out of office in November. Thanks for the story and your publication's service to America.
-- Susan DeVilder, Kewanee, Illinois
Cotton's Views Could Spread AIDS
I admit to not being a regular reader of Quinn Cotton's column but I find the behavior she advocates in her June 2 column ("My June Bride Bail-Out Guide") appalling. The sexual behavior she advocates would turn the US into one more AIDS-ridden nation like much of south Africa.
While monogamy may be more lip service than actually practiced in the United States, the idea does help control disease. Condoms can do only so much in disease prevention. Studies have repeatedly shown that living together does not lead to a longer happier marriage. People should spend time together seeking an understanding of each other. People have different drives that end up requiring give and take in all areas of marriage. One loves one's mate in totality, not as one set of sex organs.
-- Jimmy Chester, Mooresville