Fantastic is the word !!! 

London- This is the exclamation that everyone uttered at the end of the performance at the New Wimbledon Theatre staging “ The Harder They Come”, adapted from the famous film bearing the same name who made Jimmy Cliff a star all over the world.

And at the opening of this incredible musical the enthusiasm of the cast and of the audience is there from the beginning to the end of the evening. The power of the songs, the passion of the characters in the singing and dancing has been so engaging, that, after a shy start, everyone cheered or sang and few people started dancing in the aisles, even during the first half of the show. On stage an absolutely fabulous cast took the audience to a journey in Jamaica set in the 70’s meanwhile the live band Hilton All Stars played tunes  that are now the symbols of reggae music like “ The Rivers of Babylon”, “ (Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher and Higher”, “ The Harder They Come” or the moving “ Many Rivers To Cross”. An explosion of colours, atmosphere and joy that even in the most dramatic moments hasn’t been tamed.

Matthew J Henry mesmerized the audience as “ Ivan” the country boy in town that turns bad with a heart of gold, his voice, his dancing captured the attention of everyone, followed by the rest of the cast in an unforgettable performance. When the last note has been played the overwhelming applause brought the roof down at the New Wimbledon Theatre, and then  all the cast on stage grace the audience with a medley of their most famous songs, while the whole audience give an enthusiastic ten minute dancing ovation, clapping loudly. 

 It is an impulsive reaction due to the uplifting music and dancing. I highly recommend you all to go and see The Harder They Come! This is one show that cannot be missed! 

"It's a compulsory!!" As Hilton, the record producer, would say!!

photo by Betsy  Stephens

The opening of this event saw the presence of  Plan International, a charity that is committed to rebuilt the lives of children in Haiti struck by the terrible earthquake occurred in January. A percentage of the cost of the tickets and the Gala tickets  has been given to this organization to help them in their humanitarian work.

After the show, the Gala party held at a nearby location saw the presence of old and new cast members,  while DJ Native Wayne, flown especially from Los Angeles  provided the guests with great music from classic reggae to more modern versions.

The show will run until the 19th of June with Thursday and Saturday matinee as well, an occasion to go and see this classic musical and feeling that even if outside it’s raining inside the theatre it’s summer and hot, like Jamaica.

A thanks to everyone organizing this event, a memorable experience. 

The Harder They Come- The Authentic Reggae Musical Sensation Live on UK Tour