Suit, — Mr, Leo Kersley gives fewer reasons for his 'insulting pronunciamentos
de haut en bas' about Mr. Clive Barnes than Mr. Barnes did for his about Mr. Robert Helpmann. He simply repeats the dreary old insinuation that a mere ballet critic's views are worth less respect than those of 'a famous choreographer, ballerina, composer or company director' (when did any of these make good critics?),
suggests that some critics (which?) think that Elektra is 'what a ballet should be,' and alleges that Mr. Barnes's review was 'an outraged moral reaction.'
I could see no outraged morality in Mr. Barnes's notice. On the contrary, he said Elektra 'is not a disgrace, merely a pity.' He then proceeded to make clear his view that the work is just a series of theatrical tricks, designed for sensationalist effect., and that it contains no choreography. The great majority of ballet critics has shared this view. The minority which has praised Elektra has praised it for its theatrical effectiveness rather than as a good ballet.
I have met people who found Elektra forceful— 'like being kicked in the stomach,' and erotic—like having a woman.' I have not yet met anyone who takes it seriously as a choreographic work. And I have not yet heard any reasoned justification for it being performed by the Royal Ballet. Perhaps Mr. Kersley would like to attempt this.
9 Ashburn Gardens, SW7
OLEG KERENSKY
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