When Chevrolet Court passers-by at the New York State Fair catch the sound of gorgeous harmonies emanating from the stage on Aug. 30, they may recognize covers of classic country songs like Loretta Lynn’s “Don’t Come Home A’drinkin’ “or Alabama’s “Dixieland Delight.” 
If those songs cause music fans to turn their heads toward the stage, they may be surprised to see three young, African-American women doing the singing. The Mississippi ladies performing will be two sisters and their cousin who call their act Chapel Hart.
The trio gained notice in 2022 on the TV talent show America’s Got Talent. While their emergence will no doubt be seen as breaking cultural barriers, they seem to have a bright future beautifully blending their voices with old-fashioned country spirit.
These country cousins respect tradition by covering ground that had been almost exclusively for white artists. Once you’ve heard them, it’s their sound that makes them special, not their appearance. Hall of Fame country singer Charley Pride was something of a novelty as an African American when he began, but he wouldn’t have become the legendary performer he surely was unless he flawlessly sang the notes while pouring his heart into the stories and emotions they captured.
Thus Chapel Hart seeks to follow the tradition of such country family acts as the Judds, the Sweethearts of the Rodeo, the Whites, the Forrester Sisters and even the Carter Family, acts carried by multiple women who were family. It isn’t often that you can say that a Chevy Court act features something we haven’t seen before, so Chapel Hart is a not-to-be-missed concert. Show time is 6 p.m.
The timing of this concert is perfect as Wednesday is Women’s Day at the New York State Fair. 
Home base for some of the observances is logically the Harriet May Mills Art and Home Center which will host various activities throughout the day. The classically-designed, pillar-enhanced structure, long known as the Women’s Building, hosts traditionally female-centric homemaking skills with artistic handicrafts, dresses, quilts, rugs and artworks prominently exhibited, while culinary masterpieces compete for ribbons.
This year marks the third New York State Fair under the administration of a woman governor, which boosts the significance of Women’s Day at the Fair.
While you’re in the Art and Home Center you can take a break at the Empire Theatre, located a few stairs above the ground floor, for a performance of magician Steve Trash. The dimly-lit auditorium offers comfortable chairs and air conditioning where you can relax and enjoy entertainment from local music, dance or acting troupes. Stage shows, often presented with youthful enthusiasm, are generally free of charge. The schedule of performances is listed on the Fair’s website and may be posted outside the building entrance nearest the Pan African Village.
Go upstairs to the musical instrument museum to enjoy some vintage pieces including several keyboard instruments. Follow the sound of music to the classic organs and a player piano. 
Downstairs, authentic model circuses and carnivals bring back historical memories of fairs past with colorful posters lining the surrounding walls.
If attending the New York State Fair means missing your favorite television cooking show, you can get a live chef lesson in the high-tech demonstration kitchen. The schedule is on the Fair website and posted outside the northern entrance to the building.
Leave a Reply