By Mohammed Usman
A LIVE stage version of The Harder They Come, the 1972 movie which introduced Reggae to the world, is to appear at The Lowry in June.
Originally written by Perry Henzell the show is the respected version of the landmark movie representing seventies Jamaica.
The musical was added as part of the Lowry’s tenthanniversary celebrations and will run for five days between the June 22 and June 26 following a successful run in London’s West End.
Show producer Jan Ryan, of UK Arts International, said : “Though the songs were all written in the early seventies they’re still as fresh today.
“Not just with an audience that remembers them from their youth, but with a young audience – black and white – that identifies with these timeless popular classics.”
The Harder They Come is the first authentic black Caribbean musical to be showcased in Britain.
It features classic songs such as You Can Get It If You Really Want It, Rivers of Babylon, and the title track, The Harder They Come.
The film’s soundtrack is one of reggae’s best selling records ever. The songs were first written in the upshot of Jamaica’s early years of Independence.
“What’s really special is the total integrity with which the show has been mounted,” said Mrs Ryan.
“Through Perry Henzell’s creative vision and supported by a top production team, the live show has an authenticity and truthfulness which energises audiences as much as the performers.”
To buy tickets for the show visit www.thelowry.com or ring The Lowry box office on 0843 208 6000.
