Michael Riedel Column Cut to Once a Week at NY Post; Daily News Slashes Arts

Two arts news staples -- the New York Post and the New York Daily News -- are cutting back on their coverage.

Deadline writes that Michael Riedel, theatre critic, columnist and all-around purveyor of the performing arts scene in New York City and beyond, will now write just one piece a week instead of two, as the Post is bumping all of its arts coverage to Fridays. He will, however, get a full page.

"I appreciate that times are tough for print media, but I think it's both irresponsible and shortsighted to diminish an industry that many consider to be the lifeblood of New York City," Broadway publicist Rick Miramontez told Deadline. "That said, only having to endure Michael Riedel once a week will make many of my colleagues and clients happy, I'm sure."

Worse yet, the Daily News has let go of several of its top arts writers, including film critic and editor Joe Neumaeier, music critic Jim Farber and TV critic David Hinckley, as well as many of its features editors. Its plan is to "reduce reviews to star-driven shows, while expanding ad-inducing features."

Joe Dziemianowicz, who covers theatre, opera and cabaret for the paper, is still on staff. No official word on how much his coverage will be diminished as the Daily News focuses on its online content over its print product.

What do you think of the latest cuts to arts coverage? Tell us in the comments below!

Photo Credit: Jennifer Forchelli