Fireworks Halt ‘romans’ Play (Press, 10 November 1980)
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Summary: Fireworks Halt ‘romans’ Play (Press, 10 November 1980)
On 10 November 1980, a demonstration disrupted a performance of "The Romans in Britain" at London’s National Theatre. This play has been described as one of the most controversial productions staged in the city in years, as it draws parallels between the Roman conquest of Britain and contemporary actions of the British Army in Northern Ireland. The incident began 25 minutes into the second act when five demonstrators launched an attack using firecrackers, stink-bombs, eggs, and flour, which filled the stage with smoke and alarmed the audience of 1,200 people. Despite the chaos, no actors were injured, and the small fire caused by a bale of straw used in the play was quickly extinguished. However, two audience members sustained minor injuries from the thrown eggs and flour. The theatre's manager, Tim Flood, reported the disturbance and confirmed that the police arrived too late to apprehend the demonstrators, who managed to escape through the same emergency exit they had used to enter. In connection with the protest, a man reportedly contacted the British Press Association stating that the demonstrators were a part of a newly formed group called the South London Action Group, asserting that their actions were in defence of moral standards. Prior to the incident inside the theatre, around 20 members of the ultra-right National Front Party had assembled outside to protest against the play, which is known for its volatilities in demonstrating against racial issues in Britain. The interplay of political activism and art in this incident showcases the deep societal tensions of the time, reflecting broader debates on morality, representation, and colonial history. After a brief pause, the performance of "The Romans in Britain" resumed following the chaotic disruption.
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