“You can get it if you really want. “Based on the cult classic film that brought reggae to the world, THE HARDER THEY COME directed by Matthew Xia, tells the story of Ivan, an aspiring singer who arrives in Kingston, Jamaica, determined to live out his dreams on his own terms and make it as a music superstar. Runs SAT 16 MAY – SAT 04 JUL 2026.
After cutting a record deal with a manipulative music mogul, Ivan learns that the game is rigged and becomes increasingly defiant. As his star rises, he finds himself topping the charts and the most-wanted list of criminals. This unmissable show transports audiences to 1970s Jamaica and asks us the question: “What is the personal cost of fighting against systemic injustice?”
This staging of the seminal film features a sensational soundtrack with brand new songs plus many of Jimmy Cliff’s hits including “You Can Get It If You Really Want” and “Many Rivers to Cross”.
The UK premiere adapted for the stage by Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize winner Suzan-Lori Parks(Topdog/Underdog, The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess) and directed by Olivier Award-winner Matthew Xia(Tambo & Bones, Skeleton Crew) sold out last year. Based upon the film, produced and directed by Perry Henzell and co-written with Trevor Rhone. Presented by Stratford East in association with Washington Square Films, Joshua Blum& Bruce Miller.
CREATIVE
Book and Additional New Songs: Suzan-Lori Parks
Songs by Jimmy Cliff
Directed by Matthew Xia
Set Designer: Simon Kenny
Costume Designer: Jessica Cabassa
Lighting Designer: Ciarán Cunningham
Live Sound Designer: Tony Gayle
Sound Designer (Sound Effects & Soundscape): Nicola T. Chang
Choreographer & Intimacy Director: Shelley Maxwell
Video Designer: Gino Ricardo Green
Vocal Arrangements and Original Musical Director: Ashton Moore
Orchestrator & Music Arrangements: Benjamin Kwasi Burrell
Casting Director: Heather Basten
Fight Director: Claire Llewellyn for RC Annie
Voice and Dialect Coach: Aundrea Fudge
Assistant Director: Emily Aboud
Costume Supervisor: Claire Llewellyn
Creative and Cultural Consultant: Justine Henzell
Based upon the film, produced and directed by Perry Henzell and co-written with Trevor Rhone
Tickets are selling fast!!
Tickets are selling out but we have partnered with Stratford East to give away two pairs of tickets to WIN share this post on your Instagram page and tag and follow @alt_africa_ by 15 April. Winners will be selected at random.
