The solstice show

Sir, - I do not remember when I have been so angry and frustrated as I was yesterday morning when RTE brought to the TV screen…

Sir, - I do not remember when I have been so angry and frustrated as I was yesterday morning when RTE brought to the TV screen a tacky and tasteless presentation of one of our finest national treasures. This was an opportunity to bring to millions a happening which few would have the chance to experience for themselves. There were marvels to see and reflect upon, perhaps akin to a religious experience for some.

Yet throughout the most magic moments, the best endeavours of fine camerawork as the light crept along the passage were constantly interrupted by voiceovers and flashbacks to recorded interviews, plus the relentless chattering of commentators.

Surely it must be apparent even to the most insensitive producer that there was ample time to set the scene, sing the songs, interview the experts and build us up to the great moment before the sun reached the monument; and later, after the magic moments, there was time to interview the onlookers, including the Taoiseach - whose observations were some of the more astute.

But for goodness sake couldn't they leave the few minutes of real illumination to nature itself, and the skill of our ancestors 5000 years ago? - Yours, etc.,

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Chris Stillman, Thomastown Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin.