Safe--and Mediocre--Art Seen Ahead

The decision of the board of directors of the La Habra Community Theatre (“Theater Rejects Interracial ‘Romeo and Juliet,’ ” Aug. 25) is appalling. Their decision offends me as an artist and an art patron. In the current climate of artistic scrutiny and censorship, their decision leads to safe and mediocre art.

The board’s rationale was their audience “wouldn’t be able to take” an interracial Romeo and Juliet. By pandering to an audience, by second-guessing their likes and dislikes, the board does not serve the script or the theatergoing experience. The universality of Shakespeare’s themes was trivialized by an overwhelming concern “not to offend.”

Art, all art, does say something, does have a message, whether the board chooses one or not. We are obligated, as theater artists, to explore the furthest reaches of theatrical literature in the most dynamic and adventuresome means possible. Denying this obligation spurs the Jesse Helmses of the world, infuses their need to oppress and dictate what is or is not art. The citizens of La Habra deserve more open-minded leadership from their community theater.

PATRICIA L. TERRY

Laguna Beach

Terry is artistic director of Alternative Repertory Theatre in Santa Ana.