I am thrilled that you have been reading and reacting to my reviews of local theaters. Please remember that a review is an opinion, one you might not agree with but one that is valid nevertheless.
I have been reviewing local theater—professional and community—for the last 15 years and have seen lots of hits and flops. I try to call them as I see them, offering constructive criticism in place of nastiness.
Recently, the Livingston Community Theater's production of A Chorus Line engendered several comments, positive and negative. I do not intend to get into a spitting contest over whose opinion is better. I stand by my original review. I was very impressed by the ability of a community theater (which, by definition, doesn't have professional actors coming out to audition) to put on such a difficult play. I think they did a very good job. If you don't like community theater, don't go, but there is no need to trash their efforts, as some of the comments did.
Anyway, please keep reading my reviews and don't hesitate to disagree with me; just keep it civil, puleeeze! And if you go to see a show or event on my recommendation, please tell the person on the telephone that you heard about them from the NJ Arts Maven!
Thanks,
Ruth Ross
