The Post-Gazette needs a drama critic. The current melange of reviewers leaves this theater lover heartsick and confused. In a city with a wealth of rich dramatic productions, the Post-Gazette's lack of a drama critic is unforgivable.

Yes, I know that print media, newspapers in particular, are in extreme financial distress, but this approach is penny-wise and pound-foolish. I find myself turning to City Paper and the Tribune-Review online for dependable reviews of current plays. Bob Hoover is a terrific book reviewer but appears to take on the role of curmudgeon when approaching theater. Time and again I read reviews he has written that would lead me to avoid a play, and then I see the actual production and I am charmed (Quantum's "Candide" and PICT's "Jane Eyre" are two recent examples).

I also appreciate a critic whose voice is consistent and insightful, replete with years of love of and immersion in theater. When the PG lost its longtime restaurant and classical music critics, you found impressive young voices that have enriched my experience of food and concerts in this city. Please do the same for theater.

Mary Ellen Hoy

Fox Chapel

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