"Hard Times: An Artistic Expression of Poverty in Eau Claire" was a unique show staged in the Pablo Center at the Confluence's Jamf Theatre on Wednesday, Oct. 10. The show used a group of Eau Claire-area authors with a passion for thoughtful storytelling. Their stories were mixed with live music from local musicians and the movement of modern dancers. The combined result offered different perspectives on poverty. 

Writers included Bruce Taylor, Nickolas Butler, Max Garland, Patti See, Jeanne Roberts, Elan McCallum, Dan Lyksett, and Julian Emerson. Musicians included Jeremy Boettcher, Sue Orfield, Greg Gilbertson, Billy Krause, Shane Leonard, Josh Gallagher and Tiit Raid. Dancers were from Emily Emerson's Eau Claire Dance Festival performers.