Madam, - From the perspective of an opera lover rather than an opera expert, I have a problem with the review by Martin Adams of Opera Ireland's recent concert performance of Bellini's Norma in the Gaiety Theatre (November 21st). He lauds the decision to eschew any acting, movement or expression by the drably-clad soloists in favour of (what was for me) the statuesque mode they adopted throughout.
Opera involves acting, singing, orchestral music, costumes, scenery, ballet or other forms of dance. A concert performance is a wholly unsatisfactory substitute for the real thing. This was staged only because Opera Ireland was strapped for cash.
Rather than pandering to the perceived requirements of the purists (and critics), the director should have shown flexibility and made the production more accessible to the rest of us! - Yours, etc.,
OLIVER McGRANE, Marley Avenue, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16.