I CAME home from Bromsgrove Operatic Society's terrific show on a great high!

This was a splendid evening of talented Bromsgrove people entertaining a Bromsgrove audience in Bromsgrove's new Artrix theatre. Before bed I read the Advertiser, and could not believe the completely negative and almost vituperative letter from Mike Eaves.

At last, we in Bromsgrove have our own venue, which, for 20 years many arts enthusiasts have been working for and, in spite of some political ups and downs on the way, this new building is a wonderful achievement.

There are indeed still things to do, but the tiny management team of one has said all along, this is a 'soft' opening - come the autumn there will be a computerised booking system and a full complement of staff.

I am told that the Artrix is suffering from a shortage of funding, and I hope the district council will realise it is not enough to provide a venue - it urgently needs a comparatively small sum of money now to complete the job.

Yes, the coffee was in plastic cups - there is no funding to fit out a kitchen; yes, the bar is served from a table - there is no funding to fit out a bar; yes, the landscaping needs doing - but do any of these really affect enjoyment of a show?

So take no notice of Mr Eaves's letter, and come along to Artrix to one of the top-notch events on the programme - ring 01527 559364 for details.

Jim Page

New Road

Bromsgrove