Ecstacy

These are the kind of ”highs” that audiences crave:  

• When the script, acting and set merge into an absolutely perfect DRAMATIC moment.
• When an ideally-situated work of art leaves us BREATHLESS with its full force impact.
• When we find ourselves PLUNGED into an immersive music experience.
• When we just can’t stop SMILING.
• When a child is CAPTIVATED by an experience that will surely be a cherished lifetime memory. 

Artists, curators, crews and artistic directors devote themselves to the CREATION of such moments (and manymore.)  It seems like the ENTIRE arts and cultural sector exists to support their efforts – for we know how challenging, elusive and truly extraordinary such moments are to achieve. 

So, having just encountered this video of one person’s “exquisite moment” – a hiker encountering a full double rainbow (click the link for the 3-minute video).  It sure gets my vote as the BEST ENDORSEMENT EVER for our National Parks. 

I’m left wondering:   What similar evidence exists that shows any audience member’s genuine, profound and personal joy with the kinds of experiences
they find in arts & cultural experiences?

Can you share an example that doesn’t just TALK about “transformative experiences” but ACTUALLY DEMONSTRATES it as vividly and honestly as this hiker’s video?  Please post your comments/links here:  http://notes.allianceforaudience.org/2010/07/09/ecstacy/