Actor’s Religion Shouldn’t Be an Issue

I take exception to Irene Lacher’s Out and About column, which appeared Friday. Davis Gaines’ religious beliefs have nothing to do with his ability to play the Jewish leader in the musical “Masada.” I am certain Kim Strauss, who played the Roman general, does not worship Jupiter. Gaines portrayed Elezar movingly, and his voice was magnificent as ever.

Lacher’s column reflects the same kind of narrow-mindedness that led to protests over the casting of British actor Jonathan Pryce as a Eurasian in “Miss Saigon”--for which he won a Tony. One need not be a Moor to play Othello. It’s called acting.

LAURA TURTLEDOVE

Canoga Park