The Harder They Come (Theatre Royal Stratford East)

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About the Show

A powerful tale of dreams, defiance, and systemic injustice set to Jimmy Cliff’s iconic hits.

Experience the UK premiere of The Harder They Come, a gripping stage adaptation of the cult-classic film that brought reggae to the global stage.

Follow Ivan, an aspiring singer who arrives in 1970s Kingston, Jamaica, determined to make it big on his own terms. But when a manipulative music mogul rigs the system, Ivan’s defiance transforms him into both a chart-topping star and a fugitive.

Featuring Jimmy Cliff’s iconic hits like “You Can Get It If You Really Want” and "Many Rivers to Cross," plus brand-new tracks, this electrifying production explores the cost of fighting systemic injustice.

Brought to life by Pulitzer Prize winner Suzan-Lori Parks and Olivier Award-winning director Matthew Xia, this is a theatrical event you can’t miss!

Critic Reviews (11)

"The Harder They Come is something of a modern fable, in which right and wrong are clearly delineated, music and dance are the lifeblood of a community."
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"The Hero brings the thunder; the whole cast is electrifying!"
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For a previous production

"This unmissable show transports audiences to 1970s Jamaica"
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For a previous production

"Matthew Xia’s production fizzes with so much energy and sly humour that you’re willing to forgive the one-dimensional characterisation. "
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For a previous production

"Ivan’s sudden transformation into the people’s hero feels a little rushed and a tad unbelievable. Still, for the most part, Jones’s Ivan is a presence and personality enough to keep the narrative anchored"
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For a previous production

"The singing, individually and, thrillingly, in harmony, is as impressive as I have seen in years – and what songs! "
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For a previous production

"Xia’s direction finds the humour in many of the scenes, but this playful treatment struggles to coalesce with themes of drug-dealing, gun crime and police corruption."
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For a previous production

"Music is so central to 'The Harder They Come,' so important to its beating heart, that without them there truly would be no show."
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