Art can be defined as the producing of works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.  We have all experienced a performance that we know is beautiful but for some reason we do not feel its emotional power.

I went to two celebrated Off-Broadway shows recently.  Both received rave reviews from theater critics and received nominations for best Off-Broadway shows of the year.  “Oratorio for Living Things” has been called “Profoundly Strange and Overwhelmingly Beautiful” by a New York Times critic.  I agree, but did not feel the wonder of the experience. The production is unique and the voices are beautiful.  But, I was not moved emotionally.

“Coal Country” has been called “Deeply Affecting and Gorgeously Authentic” by a Time Out critic. It tells the story of the aftermath of the West Virginia mine explosion on some of the survivors of the 29 who were killed.  The first-person accounts are interspersed with musical numbers by the country and folk legend, Steve Earle.  The impact of the blast on the mining community resonates from beginning to end.  The pain and loss felt by family and friends is done simply, yet is overwhelmingly touching.