The Harder They Come

Brand new musical

A much-anticipated premiere from the Public's Writer-In-Residence Suzan Lori Parks, The Harder They Come is based on Perry Henzell and Trevor D. Rhone's seminal 1972 film of the same name and follows the trials of a young man trying to make it as a singer in Kingston, Jamaica during a highly turbulent time in the country's history. 

Set to a soundtrack by Jimmy Cliff (who starred in the movie), this brand-new musical adaptation tells Ivan's story through Cliff's cherished songs like 'You Can Get It if You Really Want', 'Many Rivers to Cross' and more, painting a vibrant picture of the time and the challenges of following your dreams in the face of corruption and exploitation. Direction comes from Tony Tacconi and Sergio Trujillo, with choreography by Edgar Godineaux.

What is the story?

The Harder They Come tells the story of Ivan who leaves his home in the Jamaican countryside and travels to Kingston with dreams of becoming a reggae star. But even though the young musician is bursting with talent and songs, making it big in the music scene is not easy, especially when dealing with shady record producers and corrupt cops. Gradually Ivan is driven into the dangerous, other side of the law.