We know D.C. Get our free newsletter to stay in the know.
I take exception to Bob Mondello’s review of the Interact Theater Company’s As You Like It at the Folger Theater (Theater, 4/19). Although he has exhibited bad taste and judgment in other reviews, I am offended that he would so belittle other reviewers and critics of the arts in the Washington area for their supportive reviews of this and other Interact productions. Perhaps he should take a lengthy retreat to assess his qualifications and expertise as a reviewer. In a previous article in Washington City Paper, he seemed befuddled that Arena’s Dance of Death (for which he was estatic) fared so poorly with the end-of-run audience (Theater, 3/29). I and other regular theatergoers weren’t at all surprised with such a stupidly and boringly directed production.
Perhaps Mondello should return to his movie-review position, where minimal acting and directing talent is needed (mostly computer techniques now). Or, since sportswriters moved into review spots in the past, he might just try a reversal. The Washington theater scene does not need such vicious and impolite far-ranging attacks on those who love and support living theater.
Arts Critic
WDCU-FM
Van Ness