Human Cargo is an epic night of story and song, featuring two masters of the craft. Storyteller and singer Matthew Crampton’s recent show The Transports was awarded five stars from the Guardian. Now he returns with a new adaptation of his acclaimed book Human Cargo: Stories & Songs of Emigration, Slavery and Transportation. An inspired collaboration unites Matthew with American traditional music legend Jeff Warner.

Together, they cast fresh light on human migration, giving voice to those actually aboard the slave ships and emigrant boats and, crucially, framing today’s important issue with history and humanity. Expect a rich and entertaining evening.

This performance also features stories researched locally, as part of the Parallel Lives project. The Refugee Council, the local Parallel Lives partner, will be in the foyer to talk about their work. Human Cargo is also delighted to be linked with UK Refugee Week 2018 (18 – 24 June).

‘An elegant, vital insight into human suffering and survival’ Cerys Matthews
‘Matthew Crampton is an accomplished folk singer and live performer; if you get a chance to see his story-and-song Human Cargo show, do not miss it.’ Songlines
‘A compelling storyteller’ ★★★★★ Guardian

In 2017 Matthew Crampton stirred the folk scene with his adaptation of Peter Bellamy’s The Transports, securing full houses and standing ovations in venues across Britain. His previous production of Human Cargo gathered crowds to stages such as the Manor Pavilion at Sidmouth, the Canopy Stage at Greenbelt and London’s Cutty Sark.

Jeff Warner is one of America’s foremost interpreters of traditional music. A founding officer of Folk Alliance International, and past president of the Country Dance and Song Society, Jeff’s pedigree is matched by his remarkable ability to entertain people from both within and outside the world of folk music.