JBroadway said: "Wow. Such disproportionately vicious responses. The OP raised this concern pretty respectfully, with a moderate tone. It's not like they called people "inconsiderate a-holes" for using first names.
For the record, I am in my 20s, and I actually agree with the OP.
I think the OP is right to point out that it's not always clear who the person is just by the first name. Especially with common first names like "Laura" (is it Osnes? Benanti? Michelle Kelly? Donnelly? etc.). And even if there's only one person who it could refer to, it isn't always easy to recall things like that based on a first name, because last names tend to be more distinctive.For example, if someone said they really hope "Michael" gets a Tony nomination for Best Actor- sure, there's only one Michaeleligible, but it's such a common name that I would really have to take a second to think about which contender is named Michael. But if they said "Urie" or "Michael Urie"I immediately know who they're talking about.
I also see the OP's point about respect. Using first names makes it sound like you're talking about a buddy from work. Using last names makes it sound like you're talking about an artist, or a public figure. I admit I don't always adhere to that rule (I'd be lying if I said I never mentioned how much I love "Bernadette" or "Patti"
. But I also don't think the OP is wrong to point it out."
I agree with everything you said, especially the first paragraph. This board is a nest of vipers.
==> this board is a nest of vipers <==
"Michael Riedel...The Perez Hilton of the New York Theatre scene"
- Craig Hepworth, What's On Stage