4 out of 5 stars

"Cable Street" somehow combines the grand, rebellious energy of "Les Miserables" and "Newsies" with a touch of "Hamilton"-esque hip-hop, despite its cast of just 13 actors playing multiple roles. Its story of how a 1936 fascist march through London's East End faced challenge from Jewish residents, with neighbors taking both sides, reflects larger conflicts of that time -- and of ours. Telling characters apart can be difficult, but under Adam Lenson's thoughtful direction, they eventually come into focus. Tim Gilvin's soaring rock-inflected score is sung with gorgeous fervor, and Alex Kanefsky's book -- though overlong -- has real substance. — Adam Z. Horvath

At 59E59 Theaters as part of Brits Off Broadway series, through May 24; 59e59.org. (Review date: May 3, 2026)