To the editor:

I write this after having just returned home from the Lawrence Free State High School Winter Choral Concert. For Gov. Brownback’s information, the arts are alive and well in Lawrence, Kan.

Once again, it was standing room only and approximately a third of the audience had to sit in the commons of the high school and watch the concert on TV sets placed around the area. Ever since my children were at West Junior High, most of the choir concerts that I have attended have been standing room only, and many people have been turned away. I find this a tribute to the music departments of the Lawrence school district, but I also find it frustrating that all parents, grandparents, friends and family are not able to be part of the true audience for these performances.

My question is, do we need a performing arts center that will accommodate the audiences for these performances? The talent on display at these performances should be something all parents have the opportunity to witness firsthand. I applaud the staff of all the schools for encouraging the students to participate and for producing such quality performances. … I just know that next time I hope I  have a seat.