Full casting has been announced for world premiere of Ryan Calais Cameron’s new play Retrograde
Based on a true event in the life of actor Sidney Poitier in 1950s Hollywood, Retrograde will start at the Kiln Theatre on 20 April, playing to 27 May 2023.
Ivanno Jeremiah (Constellations Donmar West End; The Convert, Measure for Measure, Young Vic) will play Sidney, Ian Bonar (Death of a Salesman,Young Vic and West End;, Ma Vie en Rose, Young Vic) will play Bobby and Daniel Lapaine (The Merchant of Venice, Shakespeare’s Globe; Other Desert Cities, Hedda Gabler, The Old Vic) will play Mr Parks.
Billed as an explosive new play that explores identity, resilience and integrity, Retrograde examines a true event in 1950’s Hollywood: Behind closed doors, aspiring actor Sidney Poitier is offered a lucrative contract that could make him a superstar. But what is he willing to sacrifice?
The play examines the reality of a Black actor’s journey to stardom, and explores a moment in a career which paved ways and changed perceptions, cementing the legacy of a Hollywood icon.
Retrograde will be directed by Kiln Associate Director Amit Sharma.
Amit Sharma said today: “Just when I thought I couldn’t be more energised about working on Retrogradealong come the stellar talents that are Ivanno, Daniel and Ian. I cannot wait to get started!”
Ryan Calais Cameron is the writer of hit play For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy, which is set to transfer from the Royal Court Theatre into the West End, playing the Apollo Theatre from 25 March 2023.
The show’s design will be by Frankie Bradshaw, with Lighting Design by Amy Mae, Sound Design by Beth Duke, Casting Direction by Juliet Horsley CDG, and the Kiln-Mackintosh Resident Assistant Director will be Jessica Mensah.
More about tickets to Retrograde at the Kiln Theatre London
