We are thrilled to unveil the full cast and creative team for the highly anticipated UK premiere of THE HARDER THEY COME. This powerful new adaptation of the iconic Jamaican cult film promises to be an electrifying reggae musical event for all to see. 

Adapted for the stage by the incomparable Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Suzan-Lori Parks (Topdog/Underdog, The Gershwins' Porgy and Bess) and directed by the Olivier Award-winner Matthew Xia (Tambo & Bones, Skeleton Crew), this production marks a significant return to Stratford East, where the original stage version first captivated our audiences in 2006. 

Prepare to be transported to the vibrant streets of 1970s Kingston by a phenomenal company of actors. Natey Jones steps into the lead role of Ivan. Danny Bailey plays José, Josie Benson takes on the role of Daisy, Craig Blake is Ray, Madeline Charlemagne plays Elsa, Jason Pennycooke is Preacher, Simon-Anthony Rhoden plays Pedro, and Thomas Vernal is Hilton. The dynamic ensemble bringing the world of THE HARDER THEY COME to life includes Chanice Alexander-Burnett (who also serves as cover for Elsa), Lori Barker (On Stage Swing), Ashh Blackwood, Aisha Davis (covering Daisy), Kage Douglas (On Stage Swing), Robert Grose (covering Ray & José), Lauren Azania, Jack Matthew (covering Pedro), Newtion Matthews (covering Preacher & Hilton), and Marcellus Whyte (covering Ivan). 

Behind the production is a team of extraordinary creatives shaping its every detail. The visual world is crafted by Simon Kenny (Set Designer), Jessica Cabassa (Costume Designer), and Gino Ricardo Green (Video Designer). The atmosphere of 1970’s Kingston will be lit by Ciarán Cunningham (Lighting Designer), with a unique soundscape designed by Tony Gayle (Live Sound Designer) and Nicola T. Chang (Sound Designer – Sound Effects & Soundscape). 

Movement and intimacy are guided by Shelley Maxwell (Choreographer & Intimacy Director). The heart of the music comes from Ashton Moore (Musical Director & Vocal Arrangements), Benjamin Kwasi Burrell (Orchestrator and Music Arrangements), and Luke Bacchus (Assistant Musical Director & Keys 2). The talent on stage was brought together by Heather Basten (Casting Director). Other key team members include Dominique Hamilton (WHAM Designer & Supervisor), Claire Llewellyn for RC Annie (Fight Director), Aundrea Fudge (Voice and Dialect Coach), and Emily Aboud (Assistant Director). The intricate production is supported by Claire Nicholas (Costume Supervisor), Andy Reader (Production Manager), Marie-Angelique St. Hill (Company Stage Manager), Emily Davis (Deputy Stage Manager), and Emily Mei-Ling Pearce and Dynzell Muguti (Assistant Stage Managers) with Justine Henzell as Creative and Cultural Consultant. 

Director Matthew Xia shared his excitement about the team assembled: "This new production of THE HARDER THEY COME is brought to life by a company with deep connections to Caribbean culture and a shared love of reggae. Natey Jones returns to the role of Ivan with power and charisma. We’re joined by Stratford East superstars Jason Pennycooke, Danny Bailey, and Craig Blake, alongside some West End heavyweights: Madeline Charlemagne, Josie Benson, Simon-Anthony Rhoden, and Thomas Vernal - all bringing some serious heat to Stratford. Our phenomenal ensemble adds precision, vitality, and unmistakable flair in every moment." 

Our Artistic Director, Lisa Spirling, expressed the profound significance of this production: “To walk into Stratford East is to know how important the 1972 film and the 2006 production of THE HARDER THEY COME are to this theatre and our audience. So it feels very special that in our 140th year we are able to celebrate this with a brand-new production written by the virtuoso playwright Suzan-Lori Parks and directed by Stratford East alum, the brilliant Matthew Xia." 

She concluded, "They have assembled an extraordinary team of cast and creatives to bring this toe-tapping, reggae musical masterpiece to life and we can’t wait to share it with you.” 

THE HARDER THEY COME promises to be an unmissable theatrical event, celebrating a legacy of powerful storytelling and groundbreaking music. Don't miss your chance to be part of this vibrant UK premiere. 

Book now by clicking here.