Coal Country

See it if you're interested in a theatrical docudrama of a preventable coal mining explosion, based on first person accounts of families and survivors

Don't see it if you are triggered by harrowing performances focusing on the power of unions, the explosion and the aftermath of grief and politics.

Also The country music along with the intimacy of the Public Theater enhanced the play, and all the actors were terrific. Although the play shows the role that politics played in the disaster, it is also well worth learning of the day to day horrors facing coal miners. Don't be scared off by the term docudrama.... Read more Read less

See it if You enjoy documentary and love Steve Earle. I knew he wrote the music, didn't know I'd practically be sitting on his lap!

Don't see it if you're not up for a downer (like country music story-telling kind of downer). You're the owner of a non-union mine.

See it if You enjoy unnecessary bench choreography

Don't see it if You hate bad theatre that relies on the subject matter to get applause.

See it if an incredible story about a mining accident told in a style reminiscent of Come from Away

Don't see it if Do not want to hear about a real life tragedy

See it if You know nothing about the mining disaster that the show is about or if you want a small Steve Earle concert (he plays live the whole show).

Don't see it if You've seen virtually any play or film about the lives of coal miners. It's just so bland and generic a show.

Also The play is exactly what you think it will be: stories told by individuals, woven around songs. There is nothing surprising or challenging in the entire thing. West Virginia and the miners are so sanctified in the play that you long for someone to be a jerk or a racist. As a piece of documentary theatre, it's fine. But I wanted more.... Read more Read less

See it if you like long-form podcasts about true events with a personal touch - and - with good music accompaniment.

Don't see it if you're looking for something you didn't know or any surprising twists. There are the usual good guys and heinous villains. No surprise.