My Name Is Rachel Corrie in America

To Mr. James Nicola, director of the New York Theatre Workshop:

We, the undersigned, are outraged at your refusal to show My Name Is Rachel Corrie. You originally stated that it would not show because of the uneasy "political climate" in the Middle East. Then, after director Alan Rickman denounced the decision as "censorship", you put out this statement:

"With a schedule largely driven by director Alan Rickmans pre-existing film commitments, we had less than two months to consider mounting the production."

We believe that the latter statement is a attempt to make yourself look like the victim. In reality, Rachel Corrie's memory and her family are the vicitims. To quote Mr. Rickman:

"This is censorship born out of fear, and the New York Theatre Workshop, the Royal Court, New York audiences - all of us are the losers."

We are sure that Mr. Rickman would put his filming schedule aside to be involved with the play (he did it in the past!), and two months is more than enough time to decide whether or not to show a play. The "political climate" will remain the same, whether or not the play is shown. Also, My Name Is Rachel Corrie is not a work of anti-war propaganda; it is a tribute to Miss Corrie's work and her determination to bring peace to a troubled land.

In conclusion, we are boycotting all productions to come from the New York Theatre Workshop, wherever in the country they might play, until you reconsider your decision on My Name Is Rachel Corrie. No more excuses! This wonderful play should not be confined to London just because Americans are scared of the raw truth!