Raise the Banner from Grand Union Orchestra

‘Raise the Banner’ 100 years of dissent, protest and resistance in East London

The people of East London have a glorious tradition of standing up for justice and equality, which continues right through to the present day, stronger than ever as the population has grown and diversified.

Grand Union Orchestra stands in solidarity with this indomitable East End spirit, presenting an evening of ‘riotous’ music – ‘Raise the Banner – dissent, protest and resistance’ – to commemorate the important timely anniversaries of three historic examples from the 20th Century, the:

– 100th anniversary of the Poplar Rates Rebellion
– 85th anniversary of The Battle of Cable Street
– 50th anniversary of the publication of Stepney Words

…each a significant display of defiance and a courageous stand for equality.

Far from being gloomy or tub-thumping ‘Raise the Banner’ is a joyous celebration in music of all those who have helped make our country a better society, performed by the astonishing migrant musicians and international singers of the Grand Union Orchestra, and local communities of all generations in a 30 strong World Choir.

Come and join Grand Union Orchestra for what promises to be a rousing and moving musical evening!