| Re: "Cheap shots – theatre critic out of joint," by Dave Gagnier, Letters, June 7-13, 2007.
Thanks to Mr. Gagnier for his kind words about Wedgie. This is a production we are quite proud of, and excited to be remounting. However, I don't think it's fair to lambaste Jeff Kubik for drawing parallels between our show and Sharon Pollock's Man Out of Joint. In re-reading the preview, the only descriptions I could find of Man Out of Joint were "agitprop," "decidedly adult" and "jumpsuit-clad provocation" – none of which, in my mind, are inherently pejorative, or could be considered condemnation or cheap shots. In fact, I'd wager that these descriptions fall flush with Sharon Pollock's and Downstage's intent.
Furthermore, I think it's completely valid to discuss the similarities in content and subject matter. The wonder of theatre, of art, is that it can address the same basic issues and ideas in entirely different ways. This is why I (not Kubik) brought Sharon's play into the discussion in the first place. I am proud to consider Sharon a friend and mentor, and while I appreciate Mr. Gagnier's leaping to her defense, she's been in this game awhile now. If you've ever heard her reviews on CBC, you know she can dish it out as well as, I assume, she can take it.
Jason Rothery, playwright/performer – Wedgie
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