The Harder They Come

Synopsis

Country-boy Ivan leaves home in the Jamaican countryside and travels to Kingston, his head full of songs that he hopes will earn him fame and fortune. But fortune is hard to find as Ivan is ripped off by shady record producers and corrupt cops. He does find the fame he craves - but for all the wrong reasons.

Our Review:

16 June 2010

Budding musician Ivan leaves the countryside for the buzz of Kingston, in this exuberant stage adaptation of Perry Henzell’s 1972 film. After a lukewarm reception from his mother and local music mogul Hilton, Ivan seeks employment in the church, and later, the marijuana trade, while struggling to get his music heard. Resorting to increasingly criminal measures, he's hunted by both fans and police.

The space is owned so confidently by the cast of this welcome revival that breaking into song never feels unnatural, and the onstage band is sensational. There is a genuine sense that song is the only way to really express the plight of the characters. Special mention must go to Marlon King, playing Ivanhoe’s partner in crime, Pedro. An incredibly evocative singing voice coupled with the most soothing Patois brings his character to the forefront.

The real appeal of Kerry Michael and Dawn Reid’s direction is to have cast members loitering on stage throughou...

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Latest User Review

Vanda - 23 June 2010:

Yes what a night! Amazing performance! Everybody was dancing at the end! Thank you to all the artists for the great night!...

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