Dear Editor,
It’s reassuring to discover that theatre is alive and well here in the Pontiac. Having been just last week in attendance at the Pontiac Community Players’ latest effort, The Amorous Ambassador, I can personally attest to that.
What a courageous and entertaining effort it was. The material was somewhat ribald in nature, though never crude and demanded a certain abandonment of stage inhibitions. The actors rose to the occasion unflinchingly. In addition the physical nature of the play must have been quite a challenge for a cast more mature in years. Once again, they deserve full measure for their efforts.

Taking the risk of singling out individual performances from an excellent group effort, I must mention the very proper and convincing butler, Craig Young as Perkins, the lecherous womanizer, Greg Graham as Harry Douglas, and the vacuous secretary, Leona Lalonde as Faye Baker. And this is to take nothing away from the rest of the strong cast.
Having experienced the stage in a limited way in the past myself, I must also applaud the efforts of the backstage people. Successful productions are critically dependent on the director, the stage workers, the lighting and sound people, the cue people, the ticket sellers, etc.
After attending a theatre piece or a musical event here in the Pontiac, though, a small regret always comes back to mind. I think it would be wonderful to have a better performing arts stage here. Even a nicely equipped 300 to 400 seat theatre would provide a more attractive venue for music, theatre and dance. Dream on, I guess you may respond. But last year I saw evidence of what is possible in a small community. Rosebud, Alta. is smaller than Shawville or Fort Coulonge yet it supports a successful summer theatre program, complete with a theatre school. Something worth thinking about perhaps.
Finally, to the Pontiac Community Players, keep up the good work. Your audience is most appreciative. We await your next production.

William Smith
Bristol, Que.