RTÉ’s support of amateur drama

Sir, – RTÉ is to be applauded for its support and coverage of the wonderful contribution amateur drama gives to the theatrical fabric of this great country of ours. The 2023-2024 drama season is culminating in the all-Ireland finals of the three act circuit this week in Athlone, following the three-act confined finals in Mountmellick last month and the one-act finals last December in Castleblayney.

RTÉ's widespread and comprehensive coverage is in contrast to the dearth of space given by the national print and online press. The amateur drama season involves close to 70 groups competing in approximately 50 festivals in communities large and small across the island of Ireland. It should be noted that for every group that competes there are at least two others that present their work solely for the entertainment of their local communities. All these endeavours deserve and need the oxygen of recognition from our national press if they are to continue to flourish, so perhaps you may review your policies to ensure this omission is addressed for the 2024-2025 season and well done again to the national broadcaster for their role in public service in this regard. – Yours, etc,

DAVE O’SULLIVAN,

Athgarvan,