THE CRITICS REFUTED

Serious critics of our American drama have long wielded ferocious pens over the "growing commercialism" which is held mainly responsible for the inundating flow of more eye and ear entertainment. At the foundation of the Actors' Equity Association not long ago, there was an unusually indignant rustle of critic's paper, because "labor unions" were supposed to be interested only in the material side of life. This week, however, that organization has announced the establishment of an annual spring festival week during which the best plays of all nations and all time, regardless of expense, will find production.

The Equity's plan is to cover in the succeeding years nearly all of Shakespeare's works; the best of musical comedies, such as Gilbert & Sullivan's satirical pieces; the most artistic performances of the dancing and pantomimic art; and the finest examples of the photoplay. In short, the Equity proposes to have every brand of dramatic art represented at its highest development.

Under the direction of this organization, the production of the classics of the theatre, which no manager would feel able to undertake alone, will be made possible. Such an annual event will undoubtedly give rise to others on a smaller, yet effective, scale. It should help to make the American theatre throughout, more artistic, more purposeful, and more intellectually stimulating, by awakening the public imagination and creating a desire for the best; just as our universities make for great things in art, science, and literature by presenting the achievements of the past, and the present, in an atmosphere and spirit devoid of commercialism.