Dressing Up for the Arts Center
When I read your nearly full-page spread on how to dress to attend the Performing Arts Center (View, Jan. 30) I held my head in disbelief, then proceeded to retch. Once again, Orange County’s slick, rich, utterly superficial approach to the arts holds sway.
The emphasis on sequined gowns, costumes, fashion simply perpetuates the sad but true idiocy of Orange County where the serious arts are concerned. The emphasis is on the glitzy and costume, not on brains or sensitivity. Going to the Arts Center is intended primarily for preening and showing off rich, rich costumes.
As a much-published poet, critic, playwright, actor and teacher, I resent this idiotic bent. I intend to start a movement among Performing Arts Center goers to wear paint-smeared coveralls, ravaged blue jeans, soiled shirts (both male and female), dresses that appear to have wiped up the kitchen floors, etc. I fear that Orange County will never grow up--ostentatious and superficial, yes--enlightened, profound, and intelligent, never.
ROBERT PETERS
Huntington Beach
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