Clive Barnes (1927-2008), RIP

Clive Barnes spoke in Houston some 20 years ago and transfixed a ballroom filled with women in the arts. I feel fortunate to have heard him speak. What a treasure he was.

It's always a shock to miss a friend. Even one I didn't know personally. I'll miss seeing this allegiant fixture of the dance concert and the level-headed reviews he wrote until he couldn't. He was an exemplary individualist. If he had riling opinions, I'm left with the impression that he was open-minded. He could turn the head of the conservative critic and the general public alike, bridging the gap between them, and opening the door for artists.

I saw him at every Complexions concert. Choreographer Dwight Rhoden rankles many critics but he has a huge popular appeal. Barnes questioned the choreographers ceaseless invention but he was always there on a hopeful mission to understand the next one. His absence at the company's Tuesday opening was all the more obvious with Wednesday's sad news.

Dear Apollinaire,

I enjoyed reading your comments about Clive, I did know him and always found him to be a gentleman, and so enthusiastic about all things Art.

He was the last reviewer who could write a money review, as we say in the Theatre World. Broadway will miss Clive.

He will be missed, by all who had the good fortune to know him.

Peace,

Robert