My wife and I saw the Wednesday matinee of IS HE DEAD? Professor Bronson (posted December 19) and I had similar experiences, and our respective audiences enjoyed the production in much the same ways. I'd read the Twain play soon after it was published & was disappointed. The play doctor, the director, and the cast created an enjoyable performance that was clear, fast-moving (especially in the second act), and often delightfully funny. I knew Mr. Butz only by reputation; he won me over. Credit must go, though, especially to David Ives (adapter), and to Michael Blakemore (director); they're professionals who served Twain well. I'm recommending the production to my friends as great good fun -- a farce well-performed. Cal Pritner New York, NY