The Harder They Come

Stratford East

Playing until 1st November 2025

Book tickets

Photo credit: Danny Kaan

{PR Gifted ticket}

Based on the 1972 film, The Harder They Come follows the story of Ivan (Natey Jones) and his new life in the city of Kingston. This is a tale of Ivan’s struggles, his pursuit for fame, accusations and punishments, and his love story with Elsa (Madeline Charlemagne).

Suzan-Lori Parks’s book and Matthew Xia’s direction create an immediate impact on the audience, fully exploring the nuances of Ivan’s naivety and the harsh reality in which he finds himself in. Even though he is able to find temporary respite in a local church and even falling in love with the pastor’s ward, Elsa, fate quickly rears its ugly head to crush him again, turning everyone he encounters against him.

Amidst this, Ivan aims to make something of himself through his vocal talents, and Jones performs sensational numbers that includes “You can get it if you really want”, bringing the auditorium to a standstill as we bear witness to his incredible performance. However, even with this star quality, he is reminded time and again that this amounts to nothing if those from his record label and people he interacts with are unwilling to lend a helping hand. Capturing our main character and his love interest’s struggles, this production focuses on Ivan’s aspirational journey as he learns of the reality of the world in which he lives in, and being revered as a hero by the common people almost means nothing when faced with overwhelming life circumstances and corruption.

While Ivan’s aspirations are admirable and he acts with the courage to speak out against authorities and powerful figures, these appear to be predominantly propelled by personal interests and gains. It was the people around Ivan that have created a more noble image for him, but in reality, the narrative paints a man driven by greed and disillusioned by fame. When looked at from this angle, the message becomes more clouded and leaves a sour taste.  

Jones and Charlemagne’s enchanting performances capture the lovers’ struggles, conveying the intensity of their situation and the impact these have on their psyche, how they are elevated by hope and aspirations and crushed under immense pressure and discrimination. Even amidst this incredible cast, Josie Benson is still able to shine in the role of Daisy, Ivan’s mother, conveying her love for her son, her disappointment in him as he starts to travel down a more treacherous path, cumulating in a grievous climax.

The creative elements of this production elevate the overall rhythm and impact of the production. Set design by Simon Kenny transports the audience to 1970s Jamaica. The stage is multilayered, bringing the slum atmosphere to life when required, conveying the economic and social difficulties of that time.

Through a fantastic narrative and immeasurable creativity, this production defies all odds to communicate hope, love and aspirations with ferocious intensity. Forget Hercules, this is the zero to hero story to tell.

Creatives

Book and additional new songs: Suzan-Lori Parks

Songs: Jimmy Cliff

Director: Matthew Xia

Musical Director and Vocal Arrangements: Benjamin Kwasi Burrell

Set Designer: Simon Kenny

Costume Designer: Jessica Cabassa

Lighting Designer: Ciarán Cunningham

Live Sound Designer: Tony Gayle

Sound Designer: Nicola T. Chang

Choreographer and Intimacy Director: Shelley Maxwell

Video Designer: Gino Ricardo Green