Jimmy Cliff, in a scene from the movie 'The Harder They Come'. Producers in London are seeking a young Jamaican to reprise the role of Ivan, played by Cliff in the movie. - FILE
THE SEARCH is on in the United Kingdom for a Jamaican to capture the persona of Jimmy Cliff's 'Ivan Martin' in The Harder They Come.
"We are searching all over the country for a young, raw and talented Jamaican actor capable of bringing Ivan Martin to life on stage. We know he is out there and we are determined to find him," said Dawn Reid, Associate Director, Theatre Royal in London, United Kingdom.
The Harder They Come, written by Perry Henzell and Trevor Rhone, was released in 1972. Auditions, organised by the Theatre Royal Stratford East and U.K. Arts Production, begin in London on Saturday, December 17.
The lead role of 'Ivan Martin' can only be played by a Jamaican man from age of 18 to 25 years. In addition, the individual must have outstanding acting, singing and dancing skills, as well as the ability to speak patois fluently. The successful actor must be available from February 13 to May 6, 2006.
The stage adaptation of the 70's iconic Jamaican film is scheduled to open at the Theatre Royal Stratford East in March 2006. The Harder They Come is set in Jamaica, and tells the story of the young Ivan Martin and his journey from country to town. He goes to Kingston looking for fame and fortune as a singer and eventually becomes corrupt.
