Trains, parenthood inspire shows

MUSICIAN, historian, storyteller and train buff Anthonie Tonnon deserves praise for his oneman campaign to encourage greater use of public transport, particularly rail.

For a while he’s walked the talk, convincing audiences attending his shows to leave the car at home, and if they can’t take a train, then catch a bus. He even managed to rustle up a passenger train in Dunedin, where rail is under threat — again.

That was always going to be a nonstarter in Wanaka, where public transport doesn’t exist, but his show was still a tribute to the age of the train in a delightfully nostalgic ramble with some clever, humorous songs, backed by a moody wash of synth sound.

Good stories, meaningful lyrics you could hear, and good intent. Come back any time — just don’t wait for a bus.

Be honest. If you knew what parenting would really be like, would you have signed on for it without reservations?

Emily Writes was honest with her internet blog on parenting for the hopelessly exhausted and found millions of women agreeing with her.

After the blog, the overnight success, the book and the media exposure comes the play.

Rants in the Dark is someone with a wicked sense of humour telling the truth about being a parent, warts and all.

Following Emily’s transition to becoming a parent — particularly a mum — is superb comedy, with all the switches between pleasure and pain that raising kids entails.

It’s superb comedy, hard to watch at times with tears rolling down your cheeks, alternating between laughter and sadness.

Actors Renee Lyons, Amelia ReidMeredith and Bronwyn Turei are astounding in their quick change portrayals of all the characters populating the world of Emily, her husband and children.

Timing is impeccable, direction is brilliant, and there’s not a dull moment. Obligatory watching for anyone contemplating parenthood.