A consideration of a century of Jewish history in London's East End. Beginning with the Troxy Cinema, at the upper end of the Commercial Road, near the Blackwall Tunnel this video explores the streets and buildings that tell a story of the Jewish population in east London. Still photographs and illustrations form the visual record of the past with more recent shots showing how things have changed over time. Many of the contemporary photographs reveal how the area has now become the home to a Bangladeshi community. Amongst the places visited and discussed are Fieldgate Street, Stepney Causeway, Arbour Square, the Congregation of Jacob Synagogue, the Commercial Road Great Synagogue, the Fenton Street Synagogue, Watney Market, The Yiddish People's Theatre, Frumkins Stores (on the corner of Cannon Street Road), Langdale Mansions, Hessel Street, the Grand Palais, Henriques House, the Adler Assembly Hall and Bonn's Hotel. The images are supported by recollections from members of the area's Jewish community: Phil Hyams, Jack Wallkind, Aaron Frumkins, Chaim Lipshitz, Lily Rose, Morris Box, Issy Gold, Anna Zelniker, Victor Lucas, Jack Miller . As well as the built environment, some of the interviewees speak about political issues including the Habonim youth Zionist movement, the battle of Cable Street and the formation of the Jewish Lad's Brigade.
Credits: Director, Aumie Shapiro; writer, Aumie Shapiro; narrator, Aumie Shapiro; editor, Michael Shapiro; photography, Henry Jacobs; sound, Warren Recordings; sponsor, Doron Foundation for Education and Welfare.
Copyright: Springboard Education Trust, 1989.
Tower Hamlets Local History and Archives reference number: LC15073.