ON taking my seat in the dress circle of the Grand Opera House, York, for a performance of A Midsummer Night's Dream on November 18, I was dismayed to find all the rows in front of me occupied by teenage students.

I should not have reacted thus.

Not only was their behaviour impeccable, but their enthusiasm and informed response gave me as much pleasure as the play itself.

The players also must have been delighted by the vigorous applause.

I have no idea from which school or college they came in such numbers.

But I offer to them and their tutors my thanks and congratulations.

Edna Mallett,

Lucombe Way,

New Earswick,

York.

Updated: 09:41 Monday, November 24, 2003