To say I was appalled and offended by the recent New Times articles “Have you No Shame” (Dec. 9) and “Artsy smut for your butt” (Dec. 16) is an understatement. As a frequent performer and former board member, board president, and financial supporter of the San Luis Obispo Little Theatre, I am deeply saddened and extremely disappointed by the SLO Little Theatre staff and Board of Directors for condoning and supporting such tasteless and vulgar smut to be presented on their stage.

The SLO Little Theatre is one of the oldest continuously operating community theaters in the United States and has prided itself on presenting to the community “quality” entertainment for all ages since its inception. It has provided a place for local talent to grow and hone their skills. It has presented a variety of well known plays and musicals as well as lesser-known and thought-provoking, even controversial productions. It has provided through the ACT programs an opportunity for local children to be exposed to the theater arts with quality instruction and the opportunity to participate in children’s theatrical productions.

And now, on the same stage, is no-holds-barred filth loosely disguised as an “art form?” Please, give me a break! This stuff belongs at some late night comedy club where you can be as crass and offensive as you desire. But not on public property in our community theater! The Theatre is a 501-c3 nonprofit organization that leases the facilities (the former City Library) for $1 per year. Does the City Council condone such activities on their property? I would hope not.

I have gotten an earful from concerned folks who have been close to the theater and share the same disbelief as I. These are not narrow-minded, puritanical, uptight people who dislike diversity. They just know smutty filth when they see and hear it and feel it belongs somewhere else! If you share the same concerns as I and others do, please voice your opinions to the theater staff, board members, and City Council members. If you didn’t see the articles as yet and care about our community theater, go online and take a gander. I’m sure you won’t be glad you did.