Madam, - Elizabeth Hood's comments about rude audience behaviour in Dublin echo my own experience of a few years ago. You kindly published my letter then expressing astonishment that people were allowed to drift in after the performer (E. Kissin) had already resumed his seat for the second half - and he had to wait.
The major concert venue in Hong Kong, the Cultural Centre, would make mince-meat of anyone trying this on. It also provides soothing cough sweets free (rustle-proof wrapper!) at the entrance, with the sort of advice that Ms Hood advocates. It can be done.
At a recent recital in London (the pianist) Andras Schiff paused in mid-stream to ask "persons with a distracting cough to leave now". Nobody left, but miraculously, silence ensued.
The behaviour expected of modern audiences essentially revolves around respect for the performer and for fellow ticket-purchasing listeners. If this is not innate, it has to be taught. - Yours, etc,
RONALD LEES,
Kenley Grange Heights,
Douglas, Cork.