By Patrick Hedlund
DNAinfo News Editor
EAST VILLAGE — A comedy troupe opening a new theater on Avenue A has decided to remove its "Hot Chicks Room" sign after residents complained that the babe-inspired billboard was a blight on the neighborhood.
"We'll be changing the sign," said Upright Citizens Brigade managing director Alex Sidtis, who said he was "shocked" by the response from residents upset over the sign outside its forthcoming theater space near East 3rd Street.
"The goal is to present the best comedy in the city and not to fight over a sign. We're all about co-operation and not confrontation."
Community Board 3 district manager Susan Stetzer, who lives nearby and said the piece would only serve to encourage rowdy bar-goers on the block, confirmed that the troupe agreed Wednesday to take the sign down to avoid future fights.
"I know this will be very appreciated by the residents," she said. "Regardless of whether the sign bothered you or not, the responsiveness to the community is great to see and very valued."
One neighbor who planned to start a petition against the theater happily — if warily — welcomed the news.
"I'm so happy," said Felicia Caggiano, 66, whose window looks out onto the theater, "but now I'm a little scared what's going to replace it."
Sidtis said UCB hasn't decided yet what will take the sign's place.
