“Jogging along, singing a song,
What’s round the next bend we’ll know before long,
My hand on the tiller I’ll whistle and sing,
Canals of Old England carry me on.”
Bonnet and Belt presents Canals of Old England – a celebration of the heritage of the English canals in an exciting new small cast show in costume based on traditional 19th Century canal dress, accompanied by melodeon, concertina and fiddle.
“A very well crafted performance with the traditions of the Canal life very much to the fore. Both informative and very entertaining and such enthusiasm for a bygone era of Old England at it’s most productive. ..Musically top class.” Rod Standen, Romford Folk Club
Click Here to be taken to our promotional video
“..capacity audience …stunning and original musical history of England’s canals.” – York House
Traditional and original songs – see Music Page – and poetry are woven together with real canal stories and history to tell the stories of the working people on the early canals and the incredible society they created.
Click Here for our upcoming shows
“Thanks for a great show at York House. I know how much research went into it to get the facts right , eg lanscips not castles. How nice to have us actually sing the choruses, just like the old folk clubs. Very enjoyable.” – Brian and Rose – Boaters
Canals of Old England is suitable for any space – theatres, schools, libraries, canalside venues, music stages, festivals, clubs, parties.
“Outstanding” – Dave Quayle – blogger
Education
We are passionate about helping educate the current and next generation about the history, the heritage and importance of the canals. We run creative learning workshops for schools, where pupils can imaginatively experience life on a working narrow boat. See our Education page for information about our KS2 and KS3 Education packs.
Canals of Old England – the Cast
The show is performed by professional actor/musicians normally as a duo , but may be solo – tailored to your requirements and budget.
Roses and Castles
If you are looking for a slightly larger stage production, please visit our Roses and Castles page for details of our exciting drama with music.
Canals of Old England – Contact Us
Contact us to learn more and/or discuss a booking – we would love to hear from you.