Every university has a College of Arts and Science. Almost all physicians have a Baccalaureate degree from such a college before entering medical school. During medical school we learn how to practice the Art and Science of Medicine. The Art is firmly based on Science, which is in a constant state of change -- always evolving.

"Art" has many restricted meanings. One popular meaning refers to something that can be hung on a wall or on a pedestal as paintings and sculpture. Thus the reference to the "fine arts." In previous eras, the "useful arts" were thought of first. In this concept, medicine and teaching were thought of as arts -- as skills of the mind, in reference to doing something useful.

The more generic meaning is art as cause rather than as effect. Art as in artist, rather than a work of art. Art as in player on the stage or in the symphony. Art as a physician applies his scientific knowledge and skills.

Every Fall we always see an increased emphasis on the artistic offerings. This may be a time for physicians to return and experience their undergraduate foundation in the liberal arts. The BEE and CHRONICLE have had major sections the past month outlining what the new season has in store for us. The common phrase, "literature, music, and the fine arts" include the theater, symphony, opera, and ballet, as well as the museums and galleries.

Sacramento Theater Company (STC) continues its excellent productions. Our Artistic Director, Mark Cuddy, along with his wife Christina, and their two children Maximilian and Augustus, have returned to his roots on the East coast. Mark was brought out by Dennis Bigelow in 1986 to direct "MASTER HAROLD...and the boys" and became the Artistic Director two years later in 1988. Tim Ocel who has been with Mark for these seven years will be the current Artistic Director. Our repertory theater will continue to be in good hands.

The American Conservatory Theater (ACT) in SF seems to have made the hurdle. After reducing staff, decreasing salaries when Artistic Director Carey Perloff came three years ago, the company finally had a successful season. She started off with Kushner's two part, "Angels in America." Although these two plays were scheduled for a four month run in the Marines Memorial Theater, they were extended twice, running nearly the entire eight month season. The other five plays continued at the Stage Door and in other theaters which was required since the earthquake closed the Geary several years ago. The seats were again filled, the first criteria for meeting expenses.

As professional leaders of our community, we should encourage support for the arts whether by season subscription or seasonal donations or both. The Arts merit our support.

During the current struggles in our profession when both the art and science of medicine are being questioned, it may be that one way to maintain our sanity is to exchange, at least for an evening, the stage on which we practice for the stage on which other artists perform.