For two years, Auburn’s residents have been enduring a theatrical calamity. Largely, the theater addressing the replacement of land use zoning with form base codes has been produced and directed by Auburn’s mayor.

Actually, production started even earlier with the selection of a cast of characters. Then, play rehearsals were conducted behind a COVID curtain. As that oblique curtain was pulled back, theatric performances were presented at City Council and Planning Board regular meetings, as well as special meetings.

In addition, the producer/director took the show on the road, billed as “community conversations.” In actuality, they were orchestrated as promotional presentations.

The play has received little applause. The reviews are not good and suggest that the show be paused. The script needs to be rewritten, injecting broader understanding and thinking prompted through responsible engagement and discussion with the public audience.

Bob Hayes, Auburn

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