The Transports tells the incredible tale of a family destroyed by poverty and crime, but resurrected by exile to the new colony in Australia. With a fresh script and musical arrangement, this famous show re-emerges within the context of modern mass migration. The stellar line-up for this exciting new production includes BBC Folk Award-winners The Young’uns, Faustus, Nancy Kerr, Rachael McShane, Greg Russell and Matthew Crampton.
In 1977, Peter Bellamy released The Transports on record with The Watersons, Martin Carthy, Nic Jones, AL Lloyd, June Tabor, Cyril Tawney, Dave Swarbrick and others. Several times since, further generations of folk musicians have gathered to re-create the piece. This new production features musical arrangements by Paul Sartin of Bellowhead and Faustus, with two-time BBC Folk Award-winners The Young’uns bringing their trademark live dynamism. Further musical excellence comes from Nancy Kerr, Bellowhead’s Rachael McShane, Faustus’ Benji Kirkpatrick and Saul Rose, and Greg Russell. Storyteller Matthew Crampton has created fresh narration for the show, amplifying its central tale into a broader exploration of exile and migration.
Mass migration is a defining dilemma of today. There has seldom been a more vital moment to bring back The Transports – not just a great music experience, but a sharp reminder of folk music’s power in portraying the way the world actually works.
***** “Stunning....truly a transport of delight” - Alfred Hickling, The Guardian
**** “An ensemble success....ten voices uniting in magnificently lusty, rousing chorus.” - Rob Adams, The Herald
“Truly stunning ensemble singing and individual instrumental virtuosity” - Chris Kenny, Songlines
“Superb...the best piece of work I have seen in a very long time” - John Tams
“The Transports is truly magnificent” - Ian Croft, RnR Magazine
“Outstanding” - Nigel Schofield, Living Tradition
“Thought provoking, beautifully performed, hopeful, educational, inspirational - a triumph” - Natalya Catton Wilson, EDS Magazine
“One of the best stage performances in a very long time” - Alex Gallagher, Folk Radio UK
“Moving and compelling” - Keith Savage, Arts Beat
