WEXFORD FESTIVAL

LINDSAY ARMSTRONG,

LINDSAY ARMSTRONG,

Madam, - Michael Dervan in his reasoned and comprehensive article (November 20th) puts his finger on what is wrong with the Wexford Opera Festival, namely the lamentable failure of the festival's board to devise an artistic policy which does justice both to Irish and non-Irish participation in the festival.

The artistic director (whatever his or her nationality) should be given a brief along the following lines:

- An Irish orchestra is required;

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- An Irish chorus is required;

- For the rest of the artistic disciplines whether they be conductors, designers, soloists, opera scenes, concerts, recitals, fringe events, etc., there should be not less than a 50 per cent Irish home-based or Irish sourced involvement. This still leaves a generous allowance for distinguished guests which is an essential ingredient for an international festival.

The Arts Council, as paymaster, should, as a condition of its grant, insist and ensure that an artistic policy such as this is strictly observed both in letter and print. - Yours, etc.,

LINDSAY ARMSTRONG, Managing/Artistic Director, Orchestra of St Cecilia, Bass Place, Dublin 2.