Madam, – Your report on the new RTÉ Radio 1 schedule (August 18th) refers to the introduction of two new arts shows, Arenaand The Arts Tonightbut inexplicably makes no reference to the axing of the Arts Show.
As an ardent Arts Showfan the logic of this change escapes me.
For the past two years Vincent Woods and the Arts Showproduction team have served up a wonderful programme, accessible without being patronising, lively, provocative and entertaining.
On checking the RTÉ website I am promised that Arenais going to feature "reports on emerging social trends, material culture and updates from the world of celebrity". It is described as "a cultural digest".
If I want celebrity gossip I can get it from Xposéon TV3. Ryan, Kenny, Tubridy and Mooney are just some of the people who already keep me informed of emerging social trends on Radio One. – Yours, etc,