The goal of every writer is to write something relevant to the audience, providing all the information the reader needs to fully understand what the author is communicating.
In my letter to the editor in last week's Guardian, “Gays shouldn't pay extra,” I violated this guidance. While, I am in no way retracting my previous letter; I must clarify it.
First, my comments were not intended to belittle or denigrate the work of Charles Derry, the crew, actors, and designers of “The Laramie Project”. They have all done excellent work and have produced a magnificent work of art.
Second, Wright State's theatrical productions are self-supporting. All funding for every production is normally provided from the sale of tickets.
Third, I did not provide the source of my information. Much of the specific information related to the donation from PFlag Dayton came from a specific PFlag Board member. He read my previous letter before it was published and generally agreed with its message.
He had felt that the reasons behind the series subscription drop had not been adequately explained, and that he was unable to make an informed decision as to the need for a donation. The lack of proper information is my primary concern. If PFlag was fully informed, I would not have written my previous letter.
Finally, in the interests of full disclosure, I must inform everybody that I accepted money from PFlag Dayton for my own production of “The Normal Heart.” It is my belief that I fully informed PFlag of the environment in which “The Normal Heart” was produced. I will verify this is the case and if it is not, I will return their money.
I beg everybody to attend “The Laramie Project” this evening at 7pm, tomorrow at 8pm, Friday at 8pm, or Saturday at 3pm. I promise, you will not be disappointed.
Nicholas Barnard
Junior, Theatre Studies
PFlag Dayton Member
Lambda Union Member
Phone Number 937-219-4348
Email address: nickb@dnaco.net
Note to the editor:
While I realize it is abnormal for one person to be allowed to have a letters to the editor published two weeks in a row, I humbly ask that you publish this letter.
The PFlag board member's name is Steve, (I do not know his last name) and his email address is daytonbear@aol.com. I did not obtain his permission to publish his email address or name, therefore they are not included in the letter. I have included them to allow you to confirm any item you wish.
Also please publish the fact that I am a Lambda Union member and a PFlag Dayton Member.