rActually two years ago a visiting school from Australia performed their own version of The Transports on a tour around the UK. I saw them at Victoria Gardens on The Embankment in London. There was a storm brewing and the sound effects from the boats on the Thames and the thunder kind of emphasised the ambiance of their theatre.

Likely most of the kids came from migrant families - that is they had direct connections with Australia's social history. Whereas I doubt very much whether those involved with the current Transports show have many (if any) links to anything to do with emigration.

I also agree that the current Transports is 'showbiz.' Bellemey's more authentic contribution to the folk scene must surely be his Maritime Suite - alas still unissued and largely ignored. Ditto his Kipling Ballads.