Theatergoer Feels More at Home in L.A.

Our family and friends were disappointed to learn that a few days after sales began, all orchestra and first-tier seats for “The Secret Garden” at the Orange County Performing Arts Center were unavailable.

It was then frustrating to be told by two Center employees that these seats were all taken by subscribers. The final insult, however, was prior to the performance when a representative who appeared on the stage to pitch subscription renewal began by saying: “Welcome to all of our subscribers, which is most of you. And who, by the way, are sitting in the best seats.”

Judging by the looks of those around us high in the second tier, we weren’t the only ones who reacted negatively to this attitude. It reeked of snobbery, much like that of a reluctant host who relegates his poor relatives to the attic rooms.

As a theatergoer for quite a few years, this is the first time we have ever been subjected to a tacky sales pitch prior to a performance. Are they desperate or simply lacking in good taste?

Back to Los Angeles theaters for us, where the drive is well worth excellent seats and where our patronage is welcomed, not tolerated.

B. TRIANA, Mission Viejo