THEATR Mwldan in Cardigan will host an epic night of story and song on the themes of slavery and emigration on Wednesday, May 16 (7.30pm)

Human Cargo features two masters of their craft; storyteller and singer Matthew Crampton and music legend Jeff Warner.

Matthew’s recent show The Transports won 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 heated issue with history and humanity.

Matthew says: “Folk songs give voice to the silent.

“Only the rich or lettered leave record of their lives. But what of the masses? To hear their voices, Human Cargo turns to traditional folk songs - the anonymous and authentic record of popular feeling.

“The lyrics of 25 folk songs appear within the book; some well-known, many obscure. Each song is a survivor, because people kept choosing to sing it. Together, they provide distinct windows into collective experience.

“Alongside the old story and songs, the book features snapshots of human cargo in the 21st century - words from people trafficked, transported, enslaved or impressed in modern times. In their similarity to the past, for cruelty remains constant, they help bring that past alive.”

Each performance also features stories researched locally, as part of the Parallel Lives project. Expect a rich and entertaining evening.

Cerys Matthews says: “Matthew Crampton has taken a fresh look at the worlds of slavery and emigration. He’s unearthed some fascinating stories and, crucially, added folk song to let us hear from those whose voices are usually silenced.

“Songs give such a distinct perspective on history - and this book gives us an elegant, vital insight into human suffering and survival.’

Tickets to see Human Cargo are £14 (£12), £3 mates rates and are available from Theatr Mwldan’s box office on 01239 621200, online at www.mwldan.co.uk or via the Mwldan app.