Chat-bout.net - Harder they Come Returns to UK Stage

Harder they Come Returns to UK Stage

The musical production of the iconic Jamaican film, 'The Harder They Come', returns to the United Kingdom (UK) stage on May 14 for the start of an eight-city tour.

Harder they Come

This follows two sold out performances at the Theatre Royal, Stratford East, in 2006 and 2007, a successful run in London's West End in 2008 and a successful North American tour last year.

The musical is based on the iconic 1970s film starring international reggae star, Jimmy Cliff, which was produced and directed by Perry Henzell and co-written by Trevor Rhone. It tells the story of young Ivan Martin, who heads to Kingston with dreams of becoming a reggae star, but the harsh reality of the Jamaican music scene drives him to a life as an outlaw.

The UK tour, which lasts until July 10, will see performances in Nottingham, Birmingham, Leeds, Northampton, Wimbledon (London), Salford, Greater Manchester, Oxford and Cardiff, Wales.

The largely new cast comprise several performers of Jamaican heritage, including the leads, Matthew Henry as Ivan, Alanna Leslie as Joy, Marlon King as Pedro, Joy Mack as Ivan's Mother and Kirk Patterson who plays the photographer and is the dance captain.

Choreographer for the musical is renowned Jamaican dancer and teacher, Jackie Guy, who has been with the production since 2006.

Mr. Guy said that all indications point to another successful run, as the opening night in Nottingham is sold out.

"I am very pleased to be a part of the UK tour. I have been with the production since 2006 and have seen the growth and development of the production. I am proud to be a part of this re-mount which has been done without compromising the authenticity of the original story and keeping the authenticity of the Jamaican culture alive," he said.

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