The Harder They Come

Start date: 25th May 2026
End date: 20th June 2026
Time: 7:30 pm
Location: Stratford East
June | May

Dates:

  • Captioned: THU 18 JUN, 7.30PM
  • BSL Interpreted: FRI 19 JUN, 7.30PM
  • Audio Described: SAT 20 JUN, 2.30PM
  • Relaxed Environment: MON 25 MAY, 7.30PM

Venue: Stratford East
Price: From £10
More info and booking: bit.ly/SE_THTC

“You can get it if you really want.” 

Based on the cult classic film that brought reggae to the world, THE HARDER THEY COME 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.  

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/UnderdogThe Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess) and directed by Olivier Award-winner Matthew Xia (Tambo & BonesSkeleton 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.