Retrograde by Ryan Calais Cameron ★★★★★

Sidney Poitier, legendary Bahamian American actor, filmmaker, civil rights activist and the inspiration behind Ryan Calais Cameron’s, Retrograde. Based on true events within Poitiers life, and set in 1950s Hollywood, we follow an emerging Sidney Poitier, as he navigates prejudice, racism and typecasting, all while trying to catch his big break.

Retrograde opens in Mr Parks’ office, and with credit to set designer Frankie Bradshaw, we’re immediately transported back to the 1950s. Smoke hangs in the air of the wood-panelled office, and with their half-empty brandy glasses, Mr Parks and Bobby discuss Bobby’s new script that features Poitier - soon to be the first Black lead on television network NBC.

Bobby is small in stature and full of an endearing kind of nervous energy. Mr Parks in contrast is, tall, with a distinct stoop, brash in manner with a heavy New York accent. The two engage in a comedic tennis match of insults, and crass one-liners, as Mr Parks shares his scepticism about the show and casting. With a knock at the door, Poitier arrives to sign his contract for the show.

Despite a deceptive jovial introduction, Mr. Parks’ disdain, and prejudices towards Poitier cannot be hidden for long. He begins with unnecessarily colloquial greetings (what’s buzzin, cuzzin?), moving to assumptions about Poitier's living conditions, to blatant racism - and, reminders that Poitier should never forget where he’s from.

As the play progresses, we watch a meeting for a contract signing turn into something significantly more insidious. Friendships are tested, accusations are made of conspiring with political enemies, and Poitier’s integrity is challenged. Through all of this, we’re privy to many charged, layered, and impassioned dialogues between Poitier, Bobby and Mr Parks.

These lengthy dialogues form the basis of the play, and they are truly impressive. Calais Cameron’s script is authentic, sharp and layered. It provides a thorough insight into Hollywood in the 1950s for Black actors, picking up on the intricacies and complexities of race and identity.

Cameron’s script is powerfully executed by Ivanno Jeremiah, Ian Bonar and Daniel Lapaine. As individuals, and as a trio there is no shortage of talent - they form a mighty cast, and it was a pleasure to watch them command the stage. Ivanno Jeremiah is graceful, delicate, yet full of raw emotion, and steps beautifully into the shoes of Sidney Poitier.

Retrograde is a powerful exploration of Hollywood in the 1950s, playing homepage to the great Sidney Poitier. Hot on the heels of Calais Cameron’s for Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy, Retrograde is one of our favourites this year.

You can watch Retograde at Kiln theatre until 27 May. Sign-up to our newsletter to receive a ticket discount for performances until 06 May.