Summer Times programme

Press, 25 February 1986, Page 18

Summer Times programme

Sir, —I congratulate all those involved in the organisation of the Christchurch Summer Times programme. It has been really good to be able to go along to casual fun things without having to worry about the expenses that usually accompany entertainment The dedication and involvement of many people have been shown by the quality of the staging, sound and organisation. The carefree atmosphere has been fun and the sites chosen have been suitable. Summer Times has given me and many others a lot of pleasure and has provided opportunities for new entertainers. I hope the Christchurch City Council and other sponsors continue to support this very worth-while fun and many thanks to all those who made it possible.—Yours, etc., R. E. PUENTENER. February 18, 1986. Sir, —We are about to witness the demise of the arts employment schemes and perhaps even the Summer Times programme The latter has been a wonderful example of free entertainment which has coerced many otherwise miserable people out of the woodwork and stonework to enjoy lunch-times in Cathedral Square, and evenings in Hagley Park and the Arts Centre quadrangle. This city needs outdoor live entertainment. New Zealand is an oasis of talent which can easily be wasted because of the penny-saving greed of bureaucracy. There will always be a need to challenge the everchanging landscape with art and performance venues. Without art and live entertainment, a city loses its soul. History confirms that Special mention should be mad* of those who have toiled behind the scenes of Arts Emp|*yment, Gordon Bradley and Martin McPherson to naihe but

two. My dream is to have a winter festival to help to colour the usual greyness here. — Yours, etc., ANDREW THOMPSON. February 22, 1986.