Full casting has been revealed for the return of the critically acclaimed reggae musical The Harder They Come, which comes back to Stratford East from 16 May to 4 July 2026.
The production, directed by Olivier Award winner Matthew Xia, returns following a sell-out run last year, with tickets now on sale.
Based on the cult Jamaican film produced and directed by Perry Henzell and co-written with Trevor Rhone, The Harder They Come tells the story of Ivan, an aspiring singer who arrives in Kingston determined to make his mark on the music world.
As previously announced, Natey Jones reprises his role as Ivan, with Madeline Charlemagne returning as Elsa until 6 June.
The role of Elsa will be shared with Chanice Alexander-Burnett, who takes over from 8 June.
Also returning to the cast are Danny Bailey, Ashh Blackwood, Craig Blake, Aisha Davis, Kage Douglas, Robert Grose, Jack Matthew, Simon-Anthony Rhoden and Thomas Vernal.
New company members include Llewellyn Jamal, Rachel John, Grace Kanyamibwa, Sophia Mackay, Nathaniel Morrison and Ashley Samuels.
The stage adaptation is by Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winner Suzan-Lori Parks, whose version features brand new songs alongside classic reggae tracks.
The soundtrack includes music by Desmond Dekker, Toots and the Maytals, and Jimmy Cliff, including iconic songs such as You Can Get It If You Really Want and Many Rivers to Cross.
The creative team includes set designer Simon Kenny, costume designer Jessica Cabassa, choreographer and intimacy director Shelley Maxwell, lighting designer Ciarán Cunningham and music supervisor Ashton Moore.
The Harder They Come transports audiences to 1970s Jamaica and explores ambition, resistance and the cost of fighting systemic injustice.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
