Buskers are traditional street entertainers who have been around since Roman times. Today, London has many places where the art of the busker is still alive-both in the streets and underground. The sound of music can be exciting or annoying when heard down a corridor in London's underground. Who will be playing around the corner? The echoing music brings some life to the dead tunnels with their endless rush of feet - but it is illegal.
The buskers play a constant cops and robbers' game with London Transport Police, who have to enforce the law, by arresting or moving them on. Professional musicians of skill and virtuosity often mingle and improvise with amateurs.
Above ground fire-eaters, escapologists, magicians, sword-swallowers, jugglers and singers all vie with each other to capture the imagination of the passersby.
The buskers' hazardous and adventurous lives are followed by the cameras along the streets and the underground.
Film editor DAVID GLADWELL Producer JULIA CAVE
(An edited repeat of In the Street and Underground)