Sydney Opera House

While I yield to no one in my support for Disney Hall and all that it stands for, I was surprised to see Maxwell Starkman’s letter (April 25), in which he refers to the success of the Sydney Opera House in accomplishing all its objectives.

While it has always been a magnetic symbol for Australia, the smaller hall devoted to opera is inadequate in most respects. The seating capacity is too small, the stage is much too small and completely lacks wing space and the orchestra pit takes too few players. There have even been suggestions that the opera should move to a converted playhouse elsewhere in Sydney! A cautionary tale.

PETER HEMMINGS

General Director

L.A. Music Center Opera