Picture: Pamela Raith
The Harder They Come continues at Stratford East, London until 4 July 2026.
Star rating: five stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
The scene is set pre-show as the audience is treated to an incredible playlist showcasing Jamaican artists of the 1970s.
The original soundtrack of the cult classic film on which this musical is based is celebrated for bringing reggae music to the world. This beautiful production of The Harder They Come has captured that revolutionary spirit. Far from a standard jukebox musical, the songs are woven seamlessly into the narrative, uniting story, performers and audience in a shared emotional experience.
The 1972 movie, written by Perry Henzell and Trevor D Rhone, was a darker telling of the story. Librettist and songwriter Suzan-Lori Parks’ stage adaptation, with new compositions added to the Jimmy Cliff score, provides a heart-affirming, exciting and layered version.
The Harder They Come tells the story of Ivan (Natey Jones), 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.
After cutting a record deal with a manipulative music mogul, Ivan learns that the game is rigged and becomes increasingly defiant, resisting the system. As his star rises, he finds himself topping the charts and the most-wanted list of criminals.
Under the direction of Matthew Xia, the cast members expertly weave their magic. From the very opening bars of ‘Funky Kingston’ you are witness to a new day in Kingston – crates, a hammer and a switch broom brandished by someone cleaning their doorstep provide the percussion as the audience is transported to the dusty Kingston neighbourhood.
The set design by Simon Kenny is realistic and fluid. The stage is seamlessly transformed from Kingston streets, to church, to recording studio using multi-level staging that supports the storytelling and allows for a more immersive feel.
Each cast member brings 100% energy and commitment to their roles, with friendships and relationships developing through beautifully believable story arcs. The blossoming romance between the optimistic country boy Ivan and the devout Christian Elsa (Madeline Charlemagne) builds into a wild crescendo as a church scene morphs into a dance hall. Choir robes are discarded as congregation members whine and grind to the dancehall beats. Memorable choreography in this scene and throughout is the work of Shelley Maxwell.
The quality of each song in this production is phenomenal. Jones singing the title track for the first time is stunning and Charlemagne’s solo ‘Hymn’ is wonderfully tender. ‘Many Rivers to Cross’, the duet between Charlemagne and Daisy (Rachel John), was deservedly rewarded with a mid-show standing ovation. It is raw, painful and passionate.
This production is a fitting tribute to the late Jimmy Cliff, I can completely understand why Stratford East decided to bring the show back after the sell-out run in 2025. Judging by the audience reaction and the compelling performances, this production is headed for another successful run.
A cultural celebration for our times.
Janet Morgan-Smith
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