Men: Objecting

As co-producer, choreographer and performer of the highly successful “Men: Dancing” at the John Anson Ford Amphitheatre, I am compelled to respond to the unfavorable review Lewis Segal wrote (“It’s a Man’s World as Choreographers Define the Gender,” Aug. 17).

I consider it highly unfair that he compared “Men: Dancing” with “Men of Distinction,” which was performed at Occidental College. He drew comparisons between the two in an attempt to pit one show against the other. Not only does he ridicule the production but he takes a punch at our enthusiastic audience. In my experience, Segal has always had a narrow-minded view when reviewing people of color.

Ronaldo Bowins and I are first-time producers. “Men: Dancing” came into being due to the frustration of not seeing enough powerful, talented men dance here in Los Angeles. We wanted to showcase serious male dancers and choreographers who had something to say.

We’re approaching a new millennium. Perhaps it is time for Segal to step aside for someone more in touch with the current wave of dance makers.

KEN MORRIS

Los Angeles

I feel Lewis Segal has missed some of the point in his review of JazzAntiqua (“History Gets Tangled in JazzAntiqua’s Lesson,” Aug. 3). I thoroughly enjoyed the performance, particularly the juxtaposition of jazz and African dance and music. It was a spectacular sight. I was able to feel the timeless connection between the two, sweeping me away with the energy unleashed as when reuniting siblings, separated at birth, who have never met. If Pat Taylor and JazzAntiqua meant to convey this passion and feeling, they succeeded wildly.

PAUL ANTICO

Los Angeles