The show must go on

The show must go on

EDITOR:

“There’s no business like show business,” and salvaging a 50-year-old theater that has entertained Youngstown is going to be a job as tough as putting on a production. The dedication that hundreds of actors, directors, stage crew and production staff have given to the community through the renowned Youngstown Playhouse is something that will be greatly missed if this city neglects to step up and rescue this establishment. This Valley desperately needs to Defy Gravity and the odds of allowing this organization become simply a Memory.

The Youngstown Playhouse has served this area for the past half century, through entertainment and giving back to the neighborhood by hosting food drives, rummage sales with proceeds going toward helping those in need and distributing toys to disadvantaged children around the holidays.

Many individuals have proposed the dilemma that the Playhouse is Down on Skid Row steering patrons to more desirable locations, which typically end up being an upscale movie theater. (The live aspect that accompanies a theater is something that has become almost nonexistent in today’s society. As a nation we have become accustomed to hearing digitally enhanced soundtracks that use technology to fine-tune the recording artist. Wouldn’t it Be Loverly to return to a time when live theater was all the rage? Those Were the Good Old Days. The section of town hinders the Playhouse, having an appalling reputation, yet it is constantly patrolled by Youngstown police officers, and typically one is present during every performance.

The leaking roof and recent water main break are what have recently plagued the Youngstown Playhouse, causing it to Close Every Door. These hardships coupled with the overdue bills are As Easy As Life to fix without the help of the community. The individuals who believe in the hard work and commitment demonstrated by Playhouse thespians may find themselves enthusiastically admitting, I Can’t Say No, if asked to aid in the rescue. The Playhouse operates mainly through donations generously given by various anonymous patrons; so why not publicly request their help? Many of those individuals, myself included, are willing to pitch in No Matter What to save this local theater.

I don’t expect 76 Trombones to begin marching up and down Glenwood Avenue, proclaiming the benefits of theater, but the support of the community would be nice. To be Honestly Sincere, I have never participated in a production at the Youngstown Playhouse. I’m just a regular theatergoer who enjoys a good musical without traveling to Cleveland or Pittsburgh. Let’s just hope we’re not Holding on for a Hero to save this historical landmark too much longer, otherwise it may be too late.

ROBYN MUSGROVE

Boardman

Schools’ double standard

EDITOR:

I read the letters to the editor complaining about not closing the schools because of the cold weather.

I wonder why there were no complaints about not canceling the basketball games when school was cancelled. Is this a double standard?

STAN RYDAROWICZ

Youngstown