Dance Theater Workshop was stunned to learn of The Village Voice‘s recent decision to cut back its dance reviews to one half page. On behalf of the artists that Dance Theater Workshop presents, the members they serve and the loyal audiences for dance, the following letter below was hand delivered to The Village Voice.
Doug Simmons
Managing Editor
The Village Voice
36 Cooper Square
New York, NY 10003
Dear Mr. Simmons,
On behalf of Dance Theater Workshop, I am writing to express our deep concern in The Village Voice’s reduction by fifty percent of coverage of dance, dance companies and choreography.
Since its founding in 1955, The Village Voice has set the standard for high-spirited and passionate reporting and criticism. Our dance community –dancers, choreographers and audiences – embrace the Voice as the premier expert on New York’s cultural scene. Its astute and savvy reviews of our performing art have helped to make dance an increasingly integral part of New York City.
We ask that you consider reinstating the full page of reviews and advance notices to ensure that The Village Voice continues to be the authoritative source and “voice” for dance in New York – the dance capital of the world.
Sincerely,
Marion Dienstag
Executive Director
Dance Theater Workshop
There is such a need in our community for good dance writing and we really need to increase, not decrease!