[NEohioPAL] "to review or not to review" REDUX - see the results and comm...

KevinJosephKelly at aol.com KevinJosephKelly at aol.com
Sat Jun 26 09:30:13 PDT 2010


the new Neohiopal bumper sticker will be available soon:
 
Don't Need It, Delete It!
 
thank you
 
but jim, you are allowed to rant too :)
 
 
In a message dated 6/26/2010 12:10:26 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time,  
fsternfeld at gmail.com writes:

Hi Everybody,  


When Neohiopal  was in its infancy in 2003, the issue of whether to allow 
reviews and opinions  came up and I polled the subscriber base.  Below is a 
reprint (I have  removed the email addresses because many are obsolete) of 
that poll, the  results, and comments from the subscribers. 


AGAIN, THIS WAS  ORIGINALLY SENT OUT TO NEOHIOPAL IN 2003.


Enjoy  ...


-------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Yes (keep the  reviews) -- 167 
No  (get rid  of the reviews) -- 59 
SO, REVIEWS OF ALL  KINDS WILL STAY A PART OF  THE NEohioPAL SCOPE. 
The  comments were varied and instructive and I have included many (with  
permission of the authors) at the end of this  e-mail.  
NEohioPAL Mission  Statement:  
The  Northeast Ohio Performing Arts List exists: (in random order) 
1)   to promote cooperation & support within the performing arts  community 
2)   to promote free discussion of our work by providing a forum for 
critical  opinion and educational essays 
3)    to provide arts organizations and individual artists an easy way to  
promote their events thereby making the whole performing arts community  
immediately aware of opportunities. 
Here are some "rules" that  should help each of you remain satisfied with 
the content of  NEohioPAL... 
1)     All  reviews will be clearly marked with the word "review" in the 
subject  line. That way those of you who don't want to read them can delete 
them  without opening.   I will continue to forward all of Roy Berko's  
reviews. If other professional critics (defined as someone hired by the media  to 
review) decide to post to the list, those will be forwarded as well. If you  
are seeking reviews, you can easily access them on-line by going to these  
websites: The Plain Dealer -- _www.cleveland.com_ 
(http://www.cleveland.com/) ,  The Cleveland  Scene -- _www.clevescene.com_ 
(http://www.clevescene.com/) ,   The  Cleveland Free Times -- _www.freetimes.com_ 
(http://www.freetimes.com/) ,  The Cleveland  Jewish News -- _www.clevelandjewishnews.com_ 
(http://www.clevelandjewishnews.com/) .  There may be others, but I am not aware 
of them. 
2)     All of  Jeff Holland's "Ike and Mike" reviews will be prefaced in 
the subject line  with: 'Mike & Ike satirical review of.....'     That way 
those of you who don't want to read them can delete them without  opening. 
3)     All  personal reviews, editorials, commentary, etc. should be 
clearly  marked as such in the subject line: A few  examples.....
"My Opinion of....."
"Personal Review of...."
"Personal Opinion of..."
or something else that makes it  clear that the content is solely the 
opinion of the writer.  That way  those of you who don't want to read them can 
delete them without opening. Up  to this point, the posting of these kinds of 
messages has been minimal. If  they increase significantly I will create a 
message board / forum  that will be linked to my website to allow for ongoing 
 discussion. 
If  you have any complaints about the content of a message, please reply to 
the  poster. 
The rest of this e-mail  contains subscriber comments about the "to review 
or not to review"  issue. I contacted each person to ask permission to post 
their  comments. If they decided to post their comments they had the option 
of  signing it with their name, e-mail address or 'anonymous.'   If you  
don't want to read the personal opinions below, by all means close this  
message and delete it.  
To  those of you who participated in this poll, Thank You.  
Warm  Regards,
Fred  Sternfeld
_http://www.fredsternfeld.com_ (http://www.fredsternfeld.com/)  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
--- 
Angry letters are the bane of any publication, including  an
e-list. My advise is to ignore the angry letters, and keep posting  the
reviews. Any censorship is evil-even if it's done with  good
intentions.
I vote yes.-Tim Smith
Senior  Designer/Webmaster
Cleveland Free  Times
-- and --
Dobama  Company Member

------------------------------------------------------------- 
Professionally:  Let freedom of speech win out and include what is submitted
that is  directly related to theatre. Your readers can press the delete key
as  needed.

Personally:  I am not thrilled about the personal reviews  as stand alone
e-mails. I would prefer that if reviews were used (only by  theatres
performing that show) that they be used in conjunction with the  details
regarding the run, tickets, etc. If I want to read a review, I can  pick up
a reputable paper and read the review of the professional critic on  staff.

Sandra Emerick

------------------------------------------------------------ 
Yes  - I have come to know which reviews I want to read and which not-the 
same as I  know by the subject which messages I read and which I don't.  
Thanks for  your work on this list, Fred-it is a great means of communication.
Laurel  Hart

-------------------------------------------------------------- 
I  feel that this wonderful website should not be used for personal  
opinion.  However, I do believe that professional critiques provide  insights 
usable as a learning tool for actors and directors alike.  Jeff  Holland's 
parodies have nothing to offer; educationally or otherwise, and I  for one would 
like to have 'ike and mike' discontinued.  In allowing 'ike  and mike' to 
continue could open a floodgate of chat-room repartee that is not  appropriate 
to this particular website.  Thank you for asking my opinion  and for all  
the time and effort you put into this fine  website.
Anonymous
-------------------------------------------------------------- 
A  resounding yes!
I am all for a nurturing enviornment, but this is show  business!

Andrew May
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YES!   Keep reviews in the list!  I have no other way of reading  some
reviews-like Roy Berko's-without subscribing to the publications  he
is printed in.  Plus, as a community, if someone feels really  strongly
about a production-so much so that they want to share it with  everyone
on this list-I want to know.

If people don't want to read  them, don't!

Thanks for keeping up this service by the way.  It's  incredibly
informative!

---------------------------------------------------------------- 
if  it matters-
make a separate mailing list for those who wish to receive  them. I for one 
would rather not have extra mail if I don't have  to.
Anonymous
--------------------------------------------------------------- 
Yes,  and the people who send angry, unfair letters to Fred should be 
removed from  the list.
Anonymous
--------------------------------------------------------------- 
I  personally enjoy the reviews, both informal and formal-I think I would 
draw  the line at personal comments expressed as "letters" (which I have 
rarely seen  here).  And I feel that informal reviews should only be of a 
positive  nature; more in the nature of a recommendation to the list to see a 
particular  show.

I feel that it is of great benefit to see well-thought out  descriptions of 
productions (in fact, I have written one:)-- I have found out  about shows 
I wouldn't have known about other wise; and for the actors praised  in such 
communiqués, it is a nice pat on the back!

Sincerely, Lissy  Gulick

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Let  everyone's opinion - negative or positive - be voiced. It's good to 
face the  vitriol as well as the nectar..  I feel strongly about this.
Thomas Q.  Fulton, Jr.

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I don't think they belong on the list.  At best they're mildly irritating  
- when they come in floods from certain puffed-up theaters who will go  
unnamed, I feel it smacks of elitism and unnecessary bragging.  We know  where 
the reviews are - if we want to read them, we'll find them.  Just  my opinion.
Anonymous
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YES!  Freedom of Speech should always win.

If someone starts spouting obvious  filth, we might want to revisit, but 
anyone in the theatre should have a thick  enough hide to withstand the 
occasional negative  comment...

Cheers.
Wayne Turney

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I  vote for the elimination of reviews and editorializing. I too
believe in  the First Amendment. Indeed, I am a bit of
a fanatic about it. On the other  hand I think what you
put together with the FredWeb is something  special
that has a specific purpose. As you stated, if a
theatre  organization wants to publicize something from
the paper...fine. But to get  into a tit for tat...is
counterproductive to what I think you are trying to  do
here.
Indeed, Actor's Summit's hubris was in allowing Tony
Brown  to review a play that obviously was not ready to
be reviewed. That's why  phones were invented, to call
the critic and say that 'we are not ready to  be
reviewed!' Review it next week with a more jaundiced
eye, but do it  next week when we are more prepared. I
recall Lucia and Licia had a show at  Ensemble that was
trashed because of lines not being memorized.  '

Perhaps you should start a web of public opinion
concerning the  theatre and theatre productions. 
Well, that's my two cents Fred.  Thanks for the forum.
Martin Friedman, Ph.D.

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------------
I  DON'T think that personal opinions or reviews either + or -, by amateurs 
or  pro's should be  posted.  If people want to share their reviews,  they 
should send it to their personal email list, or to a message board that  we 
all agree to access for NEOHIOPAL.  As a matter of fact, wasn't one  set up 
way back when?  This is a terrific service.  I access it for  a variety of 
reasons, but NOT to hear what Joe Blow thinks about The  production of 
Oklahoma at Chagrin Valley Little Theater or any other  production/venue for that 
matter.   It will become un-terrific if it  becomes an on line "podium".
As long as you're asking, here are the  listings that I look for as an 
entertainer and employer:
1.   Audition/casting notices
2.  Meeting notices; union or otherwise  relating to the entertainment 
industry
3.  Production  dates
4.  News i.e.: "_(your name here) , is appearing on The  Soprano's Sunday 
at 9pm" or any unbiased "news" pertaining to anyone in any  sector of 
entertainment
5.  Workshop/class notices
6.   Hirings, firings and other re-org's  ie:  "Andrew May is the new  
assistant artistic dir. at The CPH"  or "James Bundy is leaving GLTF to  work at 
Yale University"
But NOT what you or anyone else "thinks" about any  of these subjects. 
There are newsletters, web sites and personal emails for  that purpose.
That's what I think!
Thanks for asking.
Jean Zarzour  
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Personally,  I don't want to see reviews.  Don't look at it as censorship 
so much as  traffic control - we get tons of emails that are just notices 
about upcoming  events and that is what this list should be used for - 
opportunities and event  announcements - not reviews - let someone else start a 
"Review List" - you  must be busy enough -
for what it's worth  - and thanks for asking  -
Anonymous
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I  think if you post the reviews from the "professional reviewers", you 
have to  post the personal reviews, as well. I feel that it is the right 
choice. I  personally liked reading Hester's comments, and am happy to have 
another  opinion other than Roy Berko's! I feel that an open discourse is not only 
 appropriate for theatre, but the varying opinions are essential to  
theatre.
also, there is a little thing known as the "delete" button. If I  choose 
not to read the Mike and Ike stuff, all I have to do is just push the  
"delete" and it goes away really easily.
how dare these people send you  angry e-mails. if they don't like it, then 
let them leave your listing and set  up their own system. I think you should 
just choose to "delete" their messages  without reading them!
Sheila Maloney
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You  know, all I wanted to do was something just a little different, ,maybe 
make  some people laugh, and bring back some popular characters from my 
film  criticism days.  I'm sorry if I've caused you any undue weariness.   That 
was not my intention.
I'm gonna get one more review in before the High  Sheriff's (To use Joe Bob 
Briggs' term) vote to send me to Siberia.  It's  going to be for "The Ro
bber Bridegroom" a show at the University of Akron that  I am in that opens 
this week.  What's funny is most of the cast and the  director are on the list 
and they can't wait for it.  lol
Anyway,  before the axe does fall, I just wanted to say again that I really 
appreciate  you letting me do these.  A lot of my "fans" have subscribed to 
my list  that I'm building, so at least when it comes down I have another, 
albeit  smaller outlet.
And, on the off chance that the intelligent people win (I'm  sorry,  but 
this entire debate is stupid.  However, we must listen  to the masses) I will 
happily continue to piss off more people and make even  more laugh.
Sorry about the length of this.  Guess these are my  comments to your 
question.  I'm not going to vote either way,  since  I'm part of the controversy.
Now, let's just see what happens.
I'll have  the review of my show in hopefully tomorrow.
Jeff Holland   (Mike  and Ike)

P.S.  my one bitter gripe about this whole mess:   Jeez, you'd think 
theatre people would have a sense of humor.  Oh,  well.  k, I'm done now.
----------------------------------------------------------------

Reviewing  the Reviewers:
In addition to my previous comments, I just want to say that  I think the 
"Ike and Mike" reviews by Jeff Holland are terrific.  They  are witty, 
ingenious, and well-crafted, and provide a clean, fresh view of the  role of 
performing arts in our lives. 
Many of us have gone to  colleges and been through theater arts programs 
that emphasized the  involvement of the student in theater production, through 
acting, design,  production work, etc.  Few programs, however, ever 
emphasize the  audience's role-it amazes me how film students will see prodigious 
numbers of  movies and television programs in their classes, while theater 
students have  to rely on their imaginations to visualize play texts in our 
history  classes.  We aren't taught to actually go to the theater and 
appreciate  drama in our own programs, surprisingly enough. 
What I like about  Holland's reviews is that the characters in his little 
dramas (also a clever  rhetorical effect) give the sense of having no 
intellectual baggage when they  walk into the theater; they are there for the 
experience alone.  And  that's how they comment on it, with very few 
preconceptions.  This is a  distinctly American viewpoint on theater, and one that needs 
to be  revived. 
After reading Jeff's reviews, other reviews seem stiffly  formal, 
formulaic, and consumer-oriented.  The "Ike and Mike" reviews to  me are a breath of 
fresh air, and I look forward to every one.  Long live  Ike and Mike!
·       Jim  Smith

------------------------------------------------------------------------

I  vote YES.  I read the reviews I'm interested in and delete the rest,  
unopened.  We don't all get all of the papers or know where to look for  the 
reviews on the web (or have the time, for that matter).  But if it's  not 
worth the hassle to you for all the negative mail you get, I  understand.  As 
it is, this is a great service to all of  us.
Anonymous
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I  am saddened that, in this post-911 era we now find ourselves in, you  
have
been put in this position.  for god's sake people grow up. if you  don't
want to read the review/opinion - hit the delete button and stop  using Fred
as a dumping ground.
Evelyn Carr

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-

I  favor including the reviews, but not the personal opinions, as this is
not  a discussion list.  Let listers discuss their opinions back  channel.

And I would not tolerate angry letters, which are, after all,  only personal
opinions.  Again, if your policy is to include reviews,  there's no point in
venting against you when you include something someone  doesn't want.

And if you continue to get flack about the reviews, I'd  favor your
discontinuing them altogether.  You're providing a valuable  service to the
artistic community, and there's no reason you should be  abused for that
service.

Thank you for being there.

Carole  Clement       Mentor, Ohio  USA
_http://www.cadvision.com/sdempsey/clement.htm_ 
(http://www.cadvision.com/sdempsey/clement.htm) 
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--------

wow!  That's a tough call. Since the whole "critic" thing is totally 
subjective  anyway, maybe there needs to be an opt-in forum to present those. 
Perhaps a  message board? I know it's more work for you if you choose that 
route, but  maybe someone on the list would be willing to facilitate something 
like  that?

Kathy Whitmore

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---------

Hell  yes!  Keep it all in!
Andrew B. Narten
Producer,  JazzTracks
WCPN / 90.3 FM

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----------
First  of all, I am always amazed at the number of people who, over the 
years, TELL  you how to run this service. A friendly suggestion is fine, but 
how about  remembering that this service is provided as a courtesy to all 
fellow  performing artists, free of charge.  HELLOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!

I  personally don't find a problem with any reviews that are public 
anyway(i.e-  PD SCENE etc..).  I suppose if something is REALLY out of line and not 
 public, you reserve the right to not post it on NEOpal lists.
Critics all  have their own opinions. Some have professionalism handle all 
shows with a  graceful tact-whether or not is a positive or negative review. 
Others are  crude and classless in their approach (which doesn't gain an 
ounce of respect  in my book)  I know many times I agree with them and just as 
many I  DON'T. Critics are not the be all end all BUT reviews are a part of 
this  business and unfortunately we have to deal with them. How about if we 
all get  our OWN spine and decide for ourselves how we feel about 
productions. ITS OK  NOT TO AGREE WITH THE CRITIC.
Anonymous
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YES.   I think that reviews SHOULD be allowed in the newsletter.  If  people
feel that their shows have something to hide, they shouldn't be out  there 
at
all.  That's what performing is.  I also wanted to say  that the purpose of
this newsletter isn't to be warm and fuzzy and just  give praise, but to 
give
critical commentary about the Cleveland arts  environment.  There are
discussions about all different aspects of  theater, good and bad, and if
honest reviews are not deemed appropriate for  this venue, then I am not 
sure
I want to be a part of this group.  I  will go to the newspapers and free
times to get HONEST reviews, and come to  this e-mail string if my ego is
down and I only want powder puff  praise.

I praise you for allowing these reviews on your list, however I  understand
if you are forced to remove them.  Sometimes you just have  to pick your
battles.
Anonymous
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-

Yes,  freedom of speech....yes, yes, yes. Isn't that what art is all  about?
Deanna

----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
In  the spirit of positivity and simple basic grace towards one's fellow
artist  (something often sadly lacking in the world today) I vote for no
personal  opinions or negative reviews.  Criticism is essential to art, but
the  context of the criticism is also important for the art to flourish.   
I'm
not convinced that the opinion of the general subscriber to this list  can 
be
defined as constructive criticism.

As to the "free speech"  issue.  If one is passionately interested in having
her opinion made  public, it is quite easy these days to create one's own
public forum with a  web-page.

Thanks for asking....

Becca Fishel  Bright

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

NO.

My  opinion is that you're very generous and kind to have organized this 
mailing  list and YOU DO NOT NEED ANY ADDITIONAL GRIEF from those who disagree 
with  someone else's opinion that has shown up on the list.  This list is 
NOT a  chat room.  If it was, I wouldn't be a member of it.  Frankly, I  
don't read most of what comes thru on the list UNLESS I AM SPECIFICALLY  
INTERESTED based on the subject matter.  I don't have time to read  everything and 
I will continue to do so whether reviews/peoples' opinions are  on the list 
or not.  If people are disturbed by others' opinions, they  should not read 
them.  Just because it's there doesn't mean you have to  give it your 
attention.  Therefore, my NO response to your question is  based on the fact that 
you, as list moderator, need not have the added burden  of supervising 
children playing during recess.  It gets  messy.

Ksenia

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YES-I  agree that all reviews and opinions should be expressed. Tell the 
complainers  to go get a life! Don't they know how to hit the delete button if 
they don't  want to read something. It's your website!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
no,  reviews & personal opinions should not be part of neohiopal.  the  
link thing is okay (the way you do it, i.e. for reviews go  to....etc.)
thanks
Anonymous
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
Yes,  everyone is entitled to their opinion - you have the choice not to  
read
them if you don't care to.  Let them submit the reviews for those  who would
like to hear other opinions.  (Thanks for  asking!)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------
--
YES  - Keep all reviews and opinions in.  I enjoy reading differing  
opinions.
It gives the reader an unbiased review of the show(s) in  question.  I have
read so many great reviews about shows that were not  worth the time or
money, so if at least one other person offers another  perspective it would
be appreciated.  I know the atmosphere is  "supportive" but there are so 
many
great shows that never get coverage -  and if all we read are good reviews 
of
bad shows, it makes the unrecognized  casts feel worse.  I would like to see
more reviews  altogether.

Thank You,

Larry Braun 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

I  would continue to send what you have been sending
for personal opinions,  maybe that literally could be put in the heading so 
someone can delete it if  they don't want to read it, I don't feel that 
personal opinions need to be  sent but if it is in the heading then I can 
delete it
but any type of  reviewer or consistent reviewer should be sent with detail 
in the heading so  people have the choice of reading it or not
but folks have always had the  option of deleting what they don't want to 
read
it would be the same if  someone read a review or article in a newspaper, 
if the author offended you,  then you just wouldn't read his review or column 
again
and yes, it is free  speech
sincere in support
Anonymous
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---

Because  I was at work when I responded, I didn't take the time to address 
another  matter, but I'd like to now.  Clearly, myself and several other 
people  felt strongly enough about this issue to contact you, and I really 
didn't  appreciate that we were mocked in Jeff Holland's review for "Saturday  
Night."  I'm specifically speaking of his comment "That ought to be good  for 
another couple of angry letters."  (Mine, for one, certainly wasn't  
"angry.")

I'm sorry to see you allowing the list to be used in this  way, and that's 
why I think that limiting "reviews" and other personal  opinions, and 
focusing on the dissemination of valuable arts information  (which I believe has 
always been your intention), would be the best solution  here.
Anonymous
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--------
I  think FREEDOM OF SPEECH should be exercised on "THE LIST" and to prove 
it  so...I have met over 35 people thanks to a listing I put on re: JOINING 
SAG  and putting in my 5 cents in re: SCAM AGENCIES!
In no way were those email  "OPINION" based and in fact, they were pasted 
from SAG.com and a letter sent  to me by my attorney.
Another writer, Bobby, posted FACTS re: agencies in  his email that helped 
EVEN ME understand the EIC code of ethics rules re:  agent operations.
I think what is happening is that the guilty parties are  feeling a little 
uncomfortable with the TRUTH.
I am all for "POSITIVE"  listing or information that PRODUCES positive 
results. Thanks to my listings,  I have helped over 35 people understand SAG 
better and now they actually visit  my site to share positive information with 
me.
Thank you.
Mitch  Berlingeri

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Isn't  allowing only positive reviews a little one sided?...even if they 
are used by  each organization to promote their show.   Art is, by it's 
nature,  controversial; and as an Arts forum, this list has the obligation to air 
both  sides.  We, as artists, are aware that each review is only one 
person's  OPINION...whether it is good or bad.  Personally, "dueling reviews"  
always make me more curious to see the production.  
I say, let  'em all in!  Not every show is a winner...if we don't 
experience some not  so good shows, how will we recognize the truly wonderful ones?
Lenne  Snively 
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My  vote is to keep reviews and personal opinions; I don't mind a bit and 
read the  "Ike & Mike" column, especially if I've seen the show.  Thanks,  
Fred!
Pamela Sago

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------
Interesting  that you ask the question since I was wondering about that 
myself. I noticed  the list gets a little out of hand. My initial thought was 
not to publish, but  if you're going to publish the positive reviews, then 
all the rest should be  allowed as well. That's part of theater. People upset 
with them should realize  that. By performing you put yourself out there and 
have to realize some people  may not like what they see. What I find 
particularly annoying is posts or  comments that mention other reviews as if the 
person was incorrect in their  opinion. It's an opinion. Anyway, I guess I'd 
let them run. What you may want  to do, to cut down on the clutter, is put a 
limit on the number of posts about  a particular show or topic. It seems 
some folks put announcements up when  someone sneezes and it just seems a bit 
much. The current topic fits with this  since one of the theaters involved 
always seems to post opening announcements,  midrun announcements, closing 
announcements, reviews, letters in response to  reviews, yada, yada, yada. 
Good people, good shows, but the clutter is a bit  much and obscures messages 
from others. Anyway, that's just my opinion. And  like a review, you can 
agree or disagree but I thank you for letting me put it  out there.
Anonymous
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I  think you should send out whatever is in the best interest of theater  in
Cleveland....

And tell the people who complain about the reviews  to learn how to scroll
past them.  :)
Anonymous 
--------------------------------------------------------
It  seems to me that, since this is a free service you offer, and not a 
"club" or  organization that requires membership or the payment of dues, you 
should be  free to send out anything you want, within the guidelines of 
keeping people  posted about events, etc. in the world of the arts. If people 
don't like what  you're sending them, they are free to stop getting the e-mails 
at any time. I  also feel that people in the arts who can't accept 
criticism, whether  constructive or not, are in the wrong business.
Lori

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-----------

I  believe that criticism, either good or bad, is part of the business-and  
therefore appropriate material for a theater-business mailing. The Indiwire 
 (Independent film email list) includes reviews of films, why should you  
exclude it. Especially since your emails are always titled, if someone  
chooses, they do not need to read a review.
Thanks for asking,
Joe  Ruffner

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---------------
I  was in the cast of "The Hairy Ape" at CPT.  While we got mostly great  
reviews from The Plain Dealer and The Free Times, Roy Berko had some things 
to  say that, though largely negative, were helpful and thought provoking for 
me  to read.  As artists, we put ourselves out there knowing that we will 
at  one time or another be subject to some form of critical analysis.  I  
think it is refreshing to get this sort of feedback from colleagues (after  
all, who better to assess our work?), rather than some pretentious newspaper  
critic.  You are right.  This list is intended to be a means of  collective 
support.  It is for that reason that you should consider  continuing to mail 
reviews.  I say this because true constructive  criticism is intended to 
help us grow, and if we are all REALLY here to  support each other, that should 
be a primary goal.  An idea for you might  be to designate/allow as many as 
2-6 "critics".  The varying viewpoints  could be very interesting.  I enjoy 
Roy Berko's cut and dry critiques  equally as much as I enjoy Jeff 
Holland's light-hearted dialogues.  I may  be just another idealist, but I really do 
think people are being too  touchy.  I think that we can only benefit from 
seeing the world from many  different angles.
Sincerely,
Megan Elk
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----
Although  I see several of those reviews listed in the Plain Dealer or 
elsewhere, having  them listed helps those who don't subscribe to the papers.  I 
suppose I  would vote "yes" because I've enjoyed the contradictory 
viewpoints from those  read in the newspapers and WHY they found the production 
positive, etc.   If I'm not interested, a simple push of the delete button isn't 
much  work!
Thank you for this wonderful service and the time you devote to  it.
Anonymous
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yes.   As a non performer (but a performer's parent) I have found myself 
attending  more shows because of the legitimate reviews.  This list has made 
me  realize what a live theater environment we are in.
Maybe if you have people  who submit reviews, put in the Subject: REVIEW: 
title, etc.  that way you  know it is just that.

Thank you!!! Shirley O'Connor

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Yes.  It is, and should be, an open forum. The free exchange of ideas is 
what its  about. Keep up the good work.
Noah Budin

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It's  too bad that you are getting the angry letters. It's a shame that 
some people  don't have a sense of humor. The 'Ike and Mike' reviews are really 
not meant  to be reviews - they are just humorous banter about a show they 
have  seen.

My vote is 'yes'. I say don't censor - freedom of speech should  prevail.

Thanks for heading up this e-mail list. I've found it to be  very valuable. 
I'm sure it can be somewhat time consuming on your part. I  applaud your 
efforts!

Thanks,
Theresa Benyo

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LET  FREEDOM RING!

If people don't want to read them then don't read  them!

I don't like half the reviews I read or at least don't agree with  them but 
it is the job of the reviewer to do just that review...for better or  
worse.  We all know that 2 people can see the same show and come out with  two 
incredibly different opinions!  It happened twice within the past  month, see 
"The Interview" and "Virginia Wolf" vis a vi Tony Brown and Roy  Berko.

However it is not your job to censor.  I complain about  reviewers and 
reviews as much as anyone but in this case I believe the open  forum serves a 
greater purpose.

Keep them  in
Anonymous
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-------------
I  think you should absolutely include reviews in your emails.  you  clearly
state in the subject line that it is in fact a review.  if  there a person 
or
persons who do not like to read the reviews, they can  delete or bypass the
mail without ever opening it.

further, we are  actors, actresses, singers, dancers, designers, etc.  it is
our job,  the job we have chosen to do to perform and display our craft for
an  audience.  it is the nature of the business to put ourselves in  a
situation for spectator feedback.  if people can't handle the  negative
criticisms along with the positive, perhaps the should choose a  different
field to work in.

thank you for the opportunity to share  my thoughts.

sincerely,

jenna messina

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------
Yes,  by all means include reviews, I don't particularly find Ike and Mike 
humorous,  or to my liking, but you know what? I can delete it!
Judy  MacKeigan

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--------

I've  been a working actor in NYC for the past 7 years(Originally from NW 
Ohio) and  I truly enjoy all the emails I receive regarding what's going on 
in the  theatre world in Cleveland and Canton, etc...
I happened to read the "Mike  & Ike" review of Carousel Dinner Theatre's 
"Phantom" and was quite  amused.  I believe, as artists, if we cannot laugh at 
ourselves and our  craft that we take oh so seriously 99% of the 
time...then where are  we?
There are plenty of folks out there that see plays and musicals alike,  
like "Phantom", and respond similarly to the way the "Ike and Mike" script  
responded.  I think everyone has the right to express their opinion even  if it 
is an unfavorable one in the industry.  It's still the truth to a  group of 
people. (however large or small.)
Most people didn't like the NY  Times review of Frank Wildhorne's "Cival 
War"...but the truth of the matter is  it was an enormous piece of commercial 
crap that made very little sense.   I say...let's call a spade a spade.  
Even if my spade may be different  than someone else's.

Sincerely,

Joe from NYC
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YES!

This  is a great list service and recently, I have been
even M O R E impressed  with the valuable information
listed regarding agencies and the scams that  they may
or may not portray.

Let me also tell you this: I have been  acting on stage
for quite some time. Maybe it's just pure laziness,
but  I have never taken the time to fully understand
the rules of  SAG.

Well, a listing from a member made things much clearer
for me.  So much in fact, that I did some research and
they were right on!

So  I thank them, as well as you. Why? For allowing
such postings, freedom of  speech and most importantly:
a really terrific service to the acting  community!

Carmen Marrero

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----------------
This  is in response to the question regarding reviews and opinions being
posted  on the NEohioPAL Lists.  I am a strong advocate for freedom of
speech,  and yet I can also see how some would rather not see them.  In  the
theatres I have worked in thus far, directors and producers request to  
their
cast that discussion of reviews not take place in the theatre, as not   to
disrupt or offend any company member who does not care to see  them.  They
also tell the cast where the reviews will be posted, for  those who wish to
read them.  I believe that the NEohioPAL list is set  up the same way.  The
list of topics that precludes the actual  information has been invaluable to
me.  For those people who do not  want to read those pieces that are reviews
or opinions of shows, I would  suggest to them that they note where they are
in the group.  Then  simply bypass them, or depending on your e-mail setup,
don't open  them.  If anyone has a problem still, perhaps they should be
reminded  that NEohioPAL is a free listing, and it's very rude to bitch and
moan  about a free service.  On that note, I would like to thank  Fred
Sternfeld for this service, and the time he has spent in keeping  it
together.  In the three years I have been in Cleveland, the  NEohioPAL list
has helped to integrate me into Cleveland Theatre and to  make friendships
that I will cherish forever.   Thank you,  Fred.

Sincerely Yours,
Sabrina Gibbar
Producer, Dobama's Night  Kitchen
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---------

I  say yes.

However, w/ regards to personal opinion "reviews," perhaps you  should set 
up a rule that the personal opinion has to be written like a review  or a 
letter to the editor, and people must be able to command the English  language 
i.e. be well written (sorry, I'm really punchy this  morning...)

I'm sorry these angry opinions are wearing you  out...

I appreciate your willingness to continue posting positive  reviews as pr.  
It really does help, especially the smaller budget  theatres.

I hope you are well, and Fred, I continue to support what you  are doing w/ 
this list.
Anonymous
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-----------


Just  thought I'd throw my two cents in on this topic.
First, I'm sure you know  you can never make everyone
happy.  Let me suggest a  compromise.

If there are folks who want to make reviews available
to  the list members, perhaps they could post them to
an independent web page  and provide that link to the
list.  It would mean a bit more work for  the reviewer
but all-text web pages are not too difficult or  time
consuming.  In that way, those of us who enjoy the
reviews  (like me) can go read them and the others will
not be  "bothered".

Second and finally, thanks for the list.  I live  in
Canton, so many of the gig notices are a bit out of my
way, but it is  good to be kept up to date on the state
of the arts in all of NE Ohio  instead of just my tiny
corner of it.  Keep up the good work and don't  let the
bastards get you down.

Deb Salberg
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-------

No  - For your sake, Fred, the simpler the better.  I, too, believe in  
freedom of speech and opinion.  However, sometimes you can get too many  chiefs 
in the tent.  If the list is kept to a non-biased display of  audition 
info, classes, and shows, no one can be offended or complain to  you.  You put a 
ton of hard work into this list, and it shows.  I am  a novice actress 
trying to get some experience in this line of work.  If  it weren't for your 
list, I can honestly say I'm not sure I would have been  able to learn so much 
about the acting community and its auditions in  Cleveland.  Keep up the 
great work!
Sincerely,
Amy  Annico
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-------

I  sure don't want to make more work for you, but I do not like reviews
and  personal opinions on neopal.  Everyone thinks their own (or  their
friends') show is the greatest.  A link to a review allows the  reader
decide if he wants to find out someone else's opinion.

Joe  Kerata

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---------

How  awful for you that you do this wonderful e-mail list and not be shown
the  gratitude what you are doing deserves!  It is such a wonderful  
marketing
tool: quick, easy, and free, and reaches so many people.   Anyway, here's
what I think since you asked for our votes.  If I'm not  interested in the
show, I don't read the review.  Professional reviews  such as Roy Berko's 
are
published and circulated anyway, so I don't see a  problem with those such
reviews being distributed on this list.  I  enjoy reading the Mike & Ike
reviews because they are funny.  I  think it is questionable whether
non-professional reviews should be  distributed - although they are usually
positive, which is great for the  theatre to which they refer, we don't know
anything about the people  sending the message, so we don't really know if 
we
can trust their opinions  or not.  I think what you have been doing in the
past is fine.   That is my vote.  Thanks again for doing this list - it  is
great!
Anonymous
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-----------------

Great  question.  I would vote "NO."  You said to me just last week how  
much the subscriber list has grown.  The list of postings has obviously  
grown, too.  The reviews and opinions clutter up the list that much  more.

To be honest, I am less likely to spend time reading ANY postings  when I 
have 15 or more on a given day.  I just start deleting.  I  would love to see 
the list reduced to audition and performance notices  only.

I mentioned I thought that the postings should be left to  auditions and 
performances only.  Let me expand upon that a bit to say  that I think there 
are definitely some exceptions, a good example being the  notice you put in 
for a dedication to Steve Sterlekar.  News postings  that affect the theatre 
community as a whole I feel are appropriate and could  be left to your 
discretion as moderator.

Thanks,
Patrick  Jansen

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---------
Yes,  I would agree that you have a bit of a problem here. All I know  is
that your newsletter is terrific, a great asset to the  theatre
community...and it has changed over the last month or two because  people
are what?...using it for the wrong reasons? and/or using it like  email, to
begin a dialogue. Clutter, I guess.  The reviews don't  bother me because at
least they shed light on where and when shows are  happening.  The personal
notices are irritating. The length of some  notices is irritating.  they go
on forever just pumping their action.  But I don't know how you would
control all of this and I'm not sure you  should try. It is your deal so I
suppose you could try to make any kind of  restrictions that you wish.  In
fact, here's an idea...go back into  your mind when you began this
idea.  What were your initial dreams and  ambitions for the site? Is it
becoming something you don't like? Answer  those questions and act upon them
as you see fit. If I had to vote I guess  I would vote "No" reviews and
personal stuff doesn't bother me (even though  the personal stuff
does.)  Take care. Congrats on Saturday  Night.

William F. Hoffman

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----------------

Yes,  keep the reviews.  As you said, this list is a supportive environment 
for  the acting community, and reviews of any kind provide publicity for 
the shows  they concern.  And as we all know, there is really no such thing as 
bad  publicity.  Also, I feel that the sharing of personal opinions is more 
 than appropriate for the list. Thank you for putting it to a  vote.

Sincerely,
Jamie Hoffman

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------------------

I  would say, Fred, that whether or not reviews
are appropriate depends on  what you would define as being
the purpose of the list.  If it's a  discussion list, then reviews
are fine.  If it's a general theatre  interest list, then reviews are
fine.
If it's a sort of billboard for  theatre productions and theatre
related products and services, which is how  it's used  most of the
time, then reviews are not within the scope of  that.  I
don't care if reviews are included, as long as they are not  negative
towards a show I'm involved with -- I can provoke enough  negative
feedback on my own.

Mike Sepesy
_http://m.d.sep.home.att.net/_ (http://m.d.sep.home.att.net/) 
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---------------------------

I've  got to tell you that I am in favor of continuing your practice of 
allowing  reviews (any kind) to be sent on the list.  People should be entitled 
to  their opinions.  I feel that if you don't care for what the person is  
saying...then don't read it.  That's what the "delete button" is  for.  :)

Jack Herman, Founder-President
Tree City  Players

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----------------------------

I  enjoy reading them all.  People have the all-American right  to
exercise the delete key.

On the other hand, Fred, it's your  list.  If the headaches outweigh
the benefits for you, let somebody  else start the "NEOPerforming Arts
Reviews, Opinions, Kvetches, and Random  Noodlings" list.  You're doing
a boatload of work to keep this afloat,  so in my opinion, it's not even 
about
how people "vote".  Do what you  like.

- Linda Eisenstein,, _www.lindaeisenstein.com_ 
(http://www.lindaeisenstein.com/) 
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------------

ABSOLUTELY  YES !!

If people don't like it, they can delete it.   That is  why the
computer Gods put that little key that says "del" on it
right on  the right hand side of your keyboard.   It comes
in very  handy......P.S.   Sorry to hear this issue is causing
you  agita....it should be a no-brainer.
Anonymous
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-----------------

I  think as the keeper of the service, you should decide. Though I
also  believe one can decide not to read reviews or opinions if they
bother them.  And really what's wrong with extending the scope of
anything.   Grow.

YES

Eric Johnson
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-----------------
I  am sending a definitive YES answer to your question.

Artists (of any medium), being that our work is of a subjective nature, 
leave  themselves open to the subjective interpretations and opinions of anyone 
else  participating in our craft.  That includes viewers, sellers, buyers,  
fellow artists, critics, and the general public - in short, anyone.  All  
artists know the pain of criticism against what they hold dear, and dedicate  
themselves to achieving.  We spend our entire lives searching for our own  
truth, and find bits along the way that we try to share with others, only to 
 be laughed at, rejected, scoffed at, dismissed, etc., etc., etc.  IT GOES  
WITH THE TERRITORY.  If you can't handle that, then art (in any form) is  
not for you.
Freedom of speech is disappearing  everywhere today - the "mob" of public 
opinion influences everything to such a  degree that even in the arts, 
decisions are geared towards what is "palatable"  and "sellable" for the masses.  
Like when theaters do shows that have  little artistic merit, but have huge 
box office grosses (do the two go hand in  hand?).  And I'm not just talking 
about the *movie*  theaters.
Although I have not contributed much to this  forum (not having played 
organizational roles in the theater yet), I have to  say that if this forum is 
turned into a "touchy-feely" version of its former  self that is toned down 
to pacify those who have neither the stomach or  courage to pursue their 
artistic inclinations, then I'm not sure I will still  subscribe.
Having said all that, I *do* appreciate the  time and work that is put into 
this list, helping those of us in the area that  want to pursue theater.  
It is a huge help.

Sincerely,
Craig  Thompson


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---------

Maybe  people have forgotten that you maintain this massive list free of 
charge to  us, and that angry letters are not a kind way to treat someone who 
is giving  us a gift for free.  "yes" - personal reviews and opinions of 
each  other's work should be allowed on a list of this type, with at least two  
ground rules in place:
1) All reviews should be written in a spirit of  camaraderie and 
constructive comments.  Several of the reviews posted  have motivated me to see the 
shows, if for no other reason than to compare  reactions.
2) All angry letters should be directed towards the person  responsible for 
the objectionable material.  If someone disagrees with  Jeff or Roy's 
opinions, they should have the guts to duke it out with Jeff or  Roy.  You don't 
deserve to be dragged into it. To make you play "mommy"  because someone got 
their feelings hurt is unfair to you and an act of  cowardice on their part.
Thanks for the service!!  It is greatly  appreciated!!!
JT Buck

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I  like the words 'review'  or 'personal opinion'  or some other  obvious 
marker in the subject  - that way if I'm not interested I can  just delete 
and not read.

As usual, thank you for all you do,
~  Rachel Madorsky

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-------------------

OF  COURSE keep the reviews going.  YES, YEs, Yes!.

Free speech aside,  it is good to hear another opinion.  People who are
unwilling to hear  a, perhaps, differing opinion wear the proverbial 
blinders
and can only see  from their point of view.  These are also the kind of
people that  espouse, "Don't confuse me with facts, my mind is already made
up."   There is no growth for these people.  While I usually disagree  with
reviews, I will always -- ALWAYS -- want to read them.

Ron  Spinelli

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-----------------

YES.   As long as the person sending it in identifies themselves.  Debate 
and  criticism are essential parts of the arts.  Anyone who can't handle a  
negative review (wherever it happens to be) probably should get out of  
theatre.  and of course, no one has to read a review if they don't want  to.  I 
personally usually delete them.  but if some want to post  them and others 
read them, they should be allowed.  Alex J  Nine.   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------- 
Hi,  Fred - I vote NO....

...mostly because I always breeze right past the  Mike and Ike stuff 
impatiently and just scan the reviews for familiar  names. I think these 
things are definitely post-worthy, but perhaps a  separate list is the 
solution.

I also think that it will be  impossible to set any kind of guideline as to 
what would be accepted for  posting, once the forum is opened wide to 
reviews 
and personal opinions.  The selection/editing process is no longer 
arbitrary 
and it's a can of  worms that will land directly in your lap, I'm afraid. 
You've done a marvelous  job 
administering this list, but I don't think this will make your job  easier 
in 
ANY way. It's a headache you just don't need or  deserve.
Anonymous
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-------------

We  should not be so frail, that a negative review not be posted. BUT   
certainly we should take care to insure the negativity isn't being spread by  
persons not directly affected.  (Some may be happy for another  
theatre/performers poor review.) Perhaps   we should  find message boards  for these 
kinds of things..Or a chat  room with designated times for people in the arts to 
opening discuss our  "issues"(greater Cleveland),whatever they may be.
The general  advertisements are OK and easy to delete. I would like to take 
this  time  to thank you  for pulling this information together for the 
theater  community...:-) 
Anonymous 
------------------------------------------------------------------------

My  opinion is that they should not be included in the everyday content of 
the  list.  Some of them are silly and take time from information theater  
people need and want.  However, for those who want to read them perhaps  
there can be an e-mail address or some way they can be accessed.  That  way the 
integrity of the main list is kept intact but people can take a  "detour" to 
read the various opinions and reviews. 
Anonymous 
------------------------------------------------------
If  we as artists are not strong enough to face or deal with a valid 
opinion from  another artist, or open ourselves to another viewpoint differing 
from our own,  how could we possibly truly call ourselves artists?  This 
difference of  opinion and melting pot of thoughts and views is what all of art is 
based  upon.  If we cannot accept a view that does not hold true with our 
own,  no matter how much we may personally fear it, then perhaps we are in 
the wrong  field.

-Brian Bowers 
-------------------------------------------------------
I  think that those people who don't like the reviews - don't have to read  
them.  It is very informative and interesting to me to read reviews and  
opinions that I don't have time to look up for myself - a negative comment, or 
 constructive criticism, is not necessarily unsupportive.  We get this  
Email so that we can stay informed with what it going on, and if there is  
something negative to be said, that keeps us informed too.  I frankly  wish that 
there were more reviews.

I am really amazed that people find  the time to send angry Emails - if 
they don't like it, delete it and go do  something else.  
Anonymous 
-------------------------------------------------------
First,  I would like to say thank you for tending to this list serve, it 
is rather  impressive. I am new to the list serve (Chuck Fink and Noah 
Budin told me  about it). I graduated from KSU with a BA in theatre some 
time ago, and  have been working full time in the corporate world - but I 
am hoping to  become more involved in theatre.

Anyway - my vote is YES - I'm a "card  carrying member" of the ACLU. I 
believe that freedom of speech and  personal expression is the paramount 
right in a free and democratic  society. This is a freedom that is 
precarious indeed, and the arts have  always been threatened by it 
(Maplethorpe for example) and as a "torch  bearer" of sorts, I owe it to 
those around me to hear them out - even if I  am adamantly opposed to 
what they are saying.

Those are my two  cents. Again, thanks so much for being the "keeper of 
the list" as it  were!

Anastasia Birosh
Cleveland Heights 
-------------------------------------------------------
I  vote to exclude from the list those that fall into the category of  
personal opinion and continuing with those that are professional reviews,  
published or republished.  There are public forums out there for  those who 
wish to express their personal opinions.

Hang in there...  this online controversy will at some point pass... 
leaving you ready for the  next one!  Your work is appreciated by this subscriber.

All the  Best,
Steve FitzGerald
Lakewood Buzz founder

---------------------------------------------------------
absolutely  - yes.  reviews are an integral part of our business -positive 
or  negative.  Anyone who wants all theater news to be positive is in the  
wrong business.  
f. mularo 
---------------------------------------------------------
yes,
reviews  and other comments should be allowed to be
posted on this list,
in a  business such as this, we are constantly
subjected to criticism of all  kinds, whether it be a
professional review or a parody all in  fun.
actors need to learn to laugh at their own
performance, if they  cant, are they not enjoying their
own profession? 
Anonymous 
----------------------------------------------------------

I  vote yes.  You've got to take the good with the bad.  In this  business 
we stick our collective necks out (a lot), so you've got to expect  that 
heads will roll once in a while.  We can take it.  We're a  strong bunch.
Janet Shank
Fine Arts Association Theatre Dept.  Chair 

----------------------------------------------------------
I  agree that personal opinions are a waste of
space and a irritation on this  format. That's what
chat rooms are for. I did appreciate the  information
from aftra about bogus agencies, though. I also do not
like  the posting of reviews. There are so many shows,
and so much to look at,  it's just a little overkill.
If one is interested in reviews, one can read  the
paper.
Anonymous 
------------------------------------------------------------
Overall,  yes, I appreciate personal reviews.  I don't feel professional 
reviews  have the end-all opinion.  I always ask  friends for an opinion of  
something they have seen. But I do feel the reviews on your service should  
contain the subject line: Personal Review: (Insert name of show), so we know  
in advance what it is. 

On the other hand, my e-mail is becoming very  clogged.  I find I'm 
deleting more and more NEohioPAL e-mails without  opening them.When I write e-mail 
announcements to be sent, I appreciate the  huge audience that subscribes to 
your service.  But, as the recipient, I  often feel overwhelmed by the 
volume of e-mails.

I would prefer you  limit the service in other ways.  Rather than omitting 
personal reviews,  I'd rather you omit, for example, high school shows, 
non-theatre musical  events and other things that aren't purely  theatre. 
Anonymous 
-----------------------------------------------------------
My  belief is that the PAL listing is a service designed to provide 
relevant  information to the community interested in the arts. It should serve as a 
 central address to enable those on the list to easily retrieve information 
 they deem relevant.
As long as the "Subject" information is clear, I see no  reason why 
submisssions should be edited. This includes the juxtaposition of  reviews by 
theatres, as well as individual responses to publicly generated  reviews and 
comments by editorial writers in the local papers.
Tact and  good sense would seem to be the measures by which PAL subscribers 
may  determine whether they choose to read, or delete, submissions that are 
 posted.

Sincerely,

Jeff Grover 
------------------------------------------------------------- 
YES.

I  fully support the posting and/or exchange of opinions within the 
framework  
of the NEohioPAL service and appreciate the opportunity to see reviews and  
opinions whether I agree with them or not (& I certainly have had  ample 
opportunity to be on both 'sides').

Free speech is a  treasured freedom and I believe we should all be 
supportive 
of it while  realizing that reviews and opinions are "just that" and should 
cut you a  little slack in serving as the conduit...
Thanks very much.

All the  best,
Jim McCormack

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-----------------
As  much as I dislike negativity concerning community theater, the issue of 
 freedom of speech is of more concern. Unfortunately if you do not pass 
stuff  like that along, you could be open to a lawsuit or would have to shut 
the  service off.  

I usually delete anything that I do not like anyway  which the other 
readers can do.  If you get unfavorable mail, you should  return it to the sender 
to advise to complain ti the source.

I do  suggest that if there was something that you or your staff saw was  
objectionable and you felt that something need to be addressed, you still 
have  the option  of returning it to the author for reread it and give him the  
opportunity to revise or withdraw it before passing on to us.  I know  that 
I would seriously reread something that was returned to me before  
reapproving for mass distribution.      

Bob  Fadeley

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-------------- 
I  certainly don't mind reviews. I suggest that if readers don't wish to 
read  reviews, for them to take note of the subject header, which usually 
implies  that the following message is a review. Then delete it. 

For those  posting reviews, you might request that they put the word 
"Review" in the  subject line. 

Cheers, Cat Kenney 
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----------------- 
Once  again I can't "THANK YOU" enough for helping me out so much with this 
helpful  list.I feel that personal opinions and reviews should be 
allowed........Thanks  for asking! 
Have  a great day, 
Mark  A. Mazzocco 
PS:  if you ever receive any critism of something I acted in, then delete 
it...just  kidding. 
-------------------------------------------------------------------- 
In  answer to you inquiry, I do not feel that a person's personal opinions 
or  reviews should be included.  I try to see everything I can, theaterwise, 
 and don't feel someone else's opinion, however well meaning, will 
influence  me, one way or the other.  Above and beyond all that, I don't have time  
to read the stuff that I'm supposed to, let alone the rest of it.  So,  
since you asked....

Anonymous 
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Yes,  however, I don't like to get e-mails that give me a long list of 
all the  shows that a person's child is in (excluding Betsy Hogg's 
mom-Broadway is  a pretty big deal)  If I wanna know I will call a parent  
personally.
Reviews and critics are part of theatre.  Some people  hate criticism all 
together and think "how dare they say something bad  about our show or my 
performance"  Theatre is an art form.  It  evolves, has shape, and should 
entice discussion and thought.  Why do  we do theatre if it doesn't cause 
someone to be motivated or feel a  certain emotion or cause change?
Perhaps there could be an on-line theatre  forum created for Cleveland to 
discuss art that is going on around  us.
Anonymous 
------------------------------------------------------------------- 
Yes,  reviews and opinions should be allowed because it's all part of 
theatre.  Everyone has an opinion, positive or negative, and should be able 
to share  that with others they think can appreciate it. If some people on 
the list  don't want to read reviews or anything they fear might be 
negative, 
they  should skip those posts when reading the list. Personally, I've used 
the  reviews on the list which don't appear in my local papers to decide if 
a  
show is worth seeing or not.
Thanks for putting it up to a  vote. 
Linda 
----------------------------------------------------------------- 
-- 
Fred Sternfeld
_http://www.fredsternfeld.com_ (http://www.fredsternfeld.com/) 
216-360-0708-home
216-496-6087-cell



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