I write in reply to the derogatory letter by C J Townend (January 16) in which he complains of consumptive rasps, wheezes, barks and the odd loud flatulent note during the performance of Sleeping Beauty by the Moscow City Ballet.

I wonder where all the disruptive noises took place? Certainly not in the area of the stalls where my friends and I sat and enjoyed the magnificent performance of the dedicated dancers and musicians.

B Brittain,

Beech Avenue,

Bishopthorpe.

...I agree with C J Townend's letter about the noise at York Opera House during performance. The management ought to ban eating and drinking in the auditorium.

One woman was glugging spa water or lemonade from a bottle neck - this in the Dress Circle! Management, too, should allow only one carrier bag per owner into the theatre to ensure patrons' safety.

Suitable attire for the Dress Circle (instead of trainers and jogging bottoms etc) is, I am sure, too much to expect, but some improvements could be made regarding noise and refreshments in the auditorium. The ballet was exquisite.

Sheila Newman,

Oak Glade,

Brockfield Park,

York.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.