Madam, - I am prompted to take issue with Desmond White's assertions about the Abbey Theatre (March 21st). While it cannot be denied that the National Theatre's centenary celebrations were repeatedly undermined by bad news, it is not true to say that an absence of public concern "indicates a lack of enthusiasm for the place". On the contrary, there was perceptible public disquiet at these calamities and widespread support for the Abbey was confirmed by an Irish Times TNS/mrbi survey conducted in October.
Perhaps Mr White can share with readers his apparent inside knowledge of a plot to foist drab modernism on the citizens of Dublin in the guise of a new Abbey building. He could then also enlighten them as to why the National Theatre is more susceptible to the pollution of preening golden circles than institutions presenting concert and operatic music.
He might also explain how a building that is considered by some to be inadequate as a National Concert Hall can be made suitable for the Abbey.
I share the impatience of those who are eager for definite decisions on the fate of the Carlton site and the location of the Abbey and I hope that it will not be much longer before such decisions can be made. - Yours, etc.,
WILLIE WHITE,
Artistic Director,
Project Arts Centre,
Stella Gardens,
Irishtown,
Dublin 4.