PA school cancels production of KISMET over "community complaints"

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. (AP) — A western Pennsylvania school district has decided not to stage a Tony Award-winning musical about a Muslim street poet after members of the community complained about the play on the heels of the 10th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.

The Tribune Democrat of Johnstown reports Richland School District had planned to stage "Kismet" in February but Superintendent Thomas Fleming says it was scrapped to avoid controversy.

Fleming tells the newspaper that sensitivity is understandable in part because one of the hijacked planes crashed in nearby Shanksville.

So, we're still not even trying to hide our Islamophobia, are we?
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2011/09/20/us/AP-US-Islamic-Play-Pulled.html?_r=1&ref=us

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Baghdad! Don't underestimate Baghdad!
A city rich in romantic oriental lore

Baghdad! You must investigate Baghdad!
And learn a few of the facts you never knew before

Due south of the Garden of Eden
Due north of the Gulf of Aden
Where every male and maiden
Is laden down...with the blisses of
Baghdad, this irresistable town


SHAMELESS!!!

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The article doesn't say what the complaints were or from whom. For all we know, a couple of parents or board members called and said, "This isn't a good idea right now." The only mention of "Muslim" is from the author of the article as description of the main character. It doesn't say anything about anger, hate, threats, or anti-Muslim sentiment. The article itself appears to be more inciteful than the incident. Not sure why they wouldn't mention hostility or bigoted remarks if they were made. That would just make a juicier article.

Personally, I think the idea to put on that particular show in that particular place at this particular time is a bit misguided and that this is more of a case of not really thinking things through. I'm not in favor of censorship, but I'm a huge fan of tact.

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