Those who do not reside in or are unfamiliar with our beautiful city often see Tucson as a cultural wasteland. Foreigners (whether they stem from distant lands or Los Angeles replicas such as Phoenix) have wielded disparaging terms to refer to southern Arizona - perjoratives which undervalue and underestimate this artistic town nestled in and inspired by the pulchritude of the desert. Theaters - from well funded dazzlers to black-boxes with character - are almost as popular as saguaros. Most area theaters offer student discounts, some support charitable causes, and all guarantee a stimulating and eventful excursion. So support local theater in between those "learn-a-semester-in-an-evening" cram sessions and dangerous all-night dart tourneys.

"La Boheme"

UA's School of Music celebrates the 100th anniversary of the premiere of this Puccini opera. Throughout this century, "La Boheme" has remained a worldwide favorite. It is a story of love among young artists in the Latin Quarter of Paris in the 1840s. The opera will be sung in its original Italian; however, translation via supertitles will be provided. Performances are March 29 and 30 at 8 p.m. and March 31 at 3 p.m. in Crowder Hall (located in the School of Music Building). Tickets ($12 general admission and $6 for senior citizens and students) may be purchased through the UA Fine Arts Box Office at 621-1162.

"Censored"

The Invisible Theatre, 1400 N. First Ave., continues its 25th season with the world premiere of "Censored: The Story of Kłthe of Kathe Kollwitz," by Alvin J. Schnupp. The play is set in 1936 and revolves around Kollwitz's life as a renowned German artist and human rights activist and her struggle to save her art and the homosexual son of a German official from Nazi-ordered destruction. The theater also presents five free public forums made possible by the Arizona Humanities Council. Dr. Mark Luprecht will direct the first forum on March 23 at 1 p.m. The play opens March 27 and runs through April 24, with two preview performances March 25 and 26. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased through the Invisible Theatre during business hours at 882-9721.

"A Perfect Ganesh"

This introspective comedy by Terrence McNally weaves the tale of two female friends from Connecticut as they travel through India guided by Ganesha, the elephant-headed Hindu god who is the patron of learning. Both women, having suffered from personal tragedies, journey through this exotic and often misunderstood land in search of peace and personal discovery. The Arizona Theatre Company, in conjunction with The Stonewall Foundation, present preview shows of "A Perfect Ganesh" March 23 through March 28. The show opens March 29 and runs through April 13 at the Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Ave. Tickets range between $17 and $26 and may be purchased through the ATC Box Office and all Dillard's outlets. Discounts are available. Call 622-2823 for more information.

"Dirty Deal at the Lucky Lady"

The Gaslight Theatre, 7010 E. Broadway Blvd., known for its wholesome melodramatic entertainment and savory munchables, wraps up its runs of this Western musical comedy. Performances are 7 p.m. Thursday and 7 and 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $12.95 general admission, $10.95 seniors/students/active military, and $6 children. For reservations, call 886-9428.

This list is by no means extensive. If you would like to submit theater calendar items to the Wildcat, please mail them to Leigh Rich, c/o Arizona Daily Wildcat, University of Arizona, Student Union Room 4, Tucson, Ariz., 85721.