Dear Editor
This is in response to the letter from Dave Kenkel (But is it really art? News-Optimist March 19).
Everyone is entitled to their opinion and that is his. If he does not like tribute bands then by all means he should not go to them. No one is forcing him to buy a ticket nor is the music so loud that he will hear it by accident no matter where in the area he lives.
I attended one of the tribute band concerts and if he thinks those performers have no talent just because they are playing someone else's songs then he obviously does not know what the definition of talent is. (Talent, a special, often athletic, creative or artistic aptitude.)
Just because they are singing or playing someone else's music has no bearing on their skill or talent.
The Dekker Centre is a wonderful facility and as a patron of the arts, I enjoy attending events there and have been behind the scenes, on stage and a volunteer. I believe the Dekker Centre Board of Directors, Moe McGunity, and his team at the Dekker Centre, are all doing a great job. Would Kenkel rather see the centre sit empty? Is he willing to take on even more of the tax burden to compensate for no performers and therefore no ticket money?
If we do not bring in entertainment, of all kinds, then they will have to cut back at the centre and the box office is already open only four days a week.
Shelly Bretzer
North Battleford
