They Shall Not Pass: The Battle of Cable Street

October, 1936. Three thousand fascists, led by Oswald Mosley, march on Cable Street in the heart of the Jewish East End. Six thousand Metropolitan Police officers are on hand to defend them. But London’s socialists, trade unionists, immigrants and dock workers are ready to meet the fascists – and their message is clear and united: “They shall not pass.”

Returning to Arcola after two sold-out performances in October 2019, Steven Berkoff performs his new verse work, with live music from long-time collaborator Mark Glentworth. Then he discusses the colossal impact of the Battle of Cable Street, and its lasting significance at a time of creeping threats from the far-right.