The ‘Nutcracker’ Spirit

I was glad to see that Martin Bernheimer enjoyed “The Nutcracker” at the Shrine Auditorium despite his Scrooge-like attitude toward having to attend it (“Ballet Theatre Musters Fresh ‘Nutcracker,’ ” Dec. 18).

As he described it, “Chronicling ‘Nutcracker’ cheer over and over again, yule in and yule out, is dirty work, but somebody has to do it.” Well, Mr. Bernheimer, maybe nobody has to do it.

I must admit that when I left the house Dec. 16, I had many of the same feelings, but they were quickly overcome not so much by American Ballet Theatre’s performance as by the enthusiasm and enjoyment of my children.

They ran from the car to the auditorium thrilled to be attending “The Nutcracker.” They loved the performance.

Is there really a need to chronicle “The Nutcracker” year in and year out? As long as there is a “Nutcracker” and as long as there are children to enjoy it, “The Nutcracker” will live on as a charming and exciting holiday experience. It really will not matter very much what we adults think about it.

ALBERT M. COHEN

Los Angeles