Podcast Summary: "Retrograde (Apollo Theatre, West End) - ★★★★ REVIEW" by MickeyJoTheatre
Podcast Information:
- Title: MickeyJoTheatre
- Host: MickeyJoTheatre (Micky Jo)
- Episode: Retrograde (Apollo Theatre, West End) - ★★★★ REVIEW
- Release Date: April 7, 2025
Introduction
In this episode, Micky Jo delves into a comprehensive review of Ryan Kelly Cameron's latest play, Retrograde, which recently transferred to the Apollo Theatre in London's West End after a successful run at the Kiln Theatre. With a four-star rating, Micky Jo articulates the play's exploration of a pivotal moment in Sidney Poitier's early career, blending historical context with compelling theatrical craftsmanship.
Synopsis of Retrograde
Retrograde is set in 1955 and centers on a young Sidney Poitier, portrayed by Ivano Jeremiah, before his rise to fame and subsequent breaking of racial barriers in Hollywood. The narrative unfolds during a critical meeting between Sidney, his writer friend Bobby (played by Oliver Johnston), and Larry Parks, an NBC executive portrayed by Stanley Townsend. The play captures the tension and moral dilemmas faced by Sidney as he navigates racial prejudices and professional integrity within a predominantly white industry.
Notable Quote:
"Just how much of yourself would you be willing to sacrifice if it meant finally getting to do the thing you'd always wanted to?" [00:00]
Themes and Historical Context
Micky Jo highlights the play's deep engagement with themes of integrity, racial discrimination, and the impact of McCarthyism on the entertainment industry. The narrative is set against the backdrop of the civil rights movement and the Red Scare, drawing parallels to contemporary issues within the entertainment world regarding public statements and their repercussions.
Notable Quote:
"As far as Mr. Parks is concerned, that is intrinsically part of his identity and how he ought to be treated by society. It's set as a sort of protection. But we in the audience understand as well as Sidney does that it's really a threat." [Timestamp Not Provided]
Character Analysis
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Sidney Poitier (Ivano Jeremiah): Micky Jo praises Jeremiah's portrayal of Sidney as both charming and sorrowful, capturing the young actor's scrappiness and unwavering commitment to his principles. Sidney's internal conflict and eventual resolute stance showcase his character's depth and the actor's nuanced performance.
Notable Quote:
"Sidney is still walking forwards. And we hear the sound of what it is, the future that he is ultimately walking towards." [Timestamp Not Provided]
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Larry Parks (Stanley Townsend): Parks is depicted not merely as a villain but as a nuanced character who genuinely believes he is assisting Sidney, albeit through a lens of racial prejudice. Micky Jo commends Townsend for infusing humanity into Parks, avoiding a one-dimensional antagonist portrayal.
Notable Quote:
"Mr. Parks is so incapable of understanding that he becomes frustrated with Sidney and it moves to a place of anger." [Timestamp Not Provided]
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Bobby (Oliver Johnston): Bobby represents the differing perspectives within the narrative, embodying the tensions between personal ambition and ethical considerations. Johnston's performance captures Bobby's nervousness and underlying motives, adding complexity to the interactions.
Directorial and Creative Choices
Director Amit Sharma is lauded for his subtle yet impactful creative decisions, such as the use of a ticking clock and sound amplification to heighten tension and emphasize pivotal moments. These elements effectively mirror the urgency Sidney faces in making life-altering decisions.
Notable Quote:
"From director Amit Sharma, we can hear the painful strikes of a ticking clock. We have had this idea introduced in the script by Ryan Calais Cameron, that time is of the essence here." [Timestamp Not Provided]
Writing and Dialogue
Ryan Kelly Cameron's script is praised for its tight structure and potent dialogue, despite the play's confined setting. The interplay between characters is described as rich and multi-layered, with exchanges that reveal deep-seated prejudices and personal conflicts. Micky Jo appreciates the balance between tension and moments of wit, particularly the interactions between Mr. Parks and Bobby.
Notable Quote:
"What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul?" [Timestamp Not Provided]
Performance Highlights
- Ivano Jeremiah as Sidney Poitier: Jeremiah's performance is a standout, effectively conveying Sidney's internal struggle and unwavering integrity.
- Oliver Johnston as Bobby: Johnston brings a visible nervousness and depth to Bobby, especially in his private conversations with Parks.
- Stanley Townsend as Larry Parks: Townsend delivers a nuanced portrayal, capturing both the prejudice and misguided sense of respect inherent in Parks' character.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Micky Jo concludes that Retrograde is a powerful and emotionally charged play that successfully balances historical significance with intimate character studies. Despite its limited scope, the play's exploration of integrity and racial dynamics resonates deeply, making it a must-see production currently running at the Apollo Theatre.
Closing Quote:
"I enjoyed sharing it with you very much." [Timestamp Not Provided]
Recommendations
Micky Jo encourages listeners to attend Retrograde for its compelling narrative and exceptional performances. He also invites those who have seen the play to share their thoughts in the comments and reminds the audience to subscribe to his YouTube channel or follow him on podcast platforms for more theatre reviews.
Notable Quote:
"If this sounds at all interesting to you, please go and check it out and if you have already, as always, let us know what you thought of it in the comments section down below." [Timestamp Not Provided]
This summary encapsulates the key points discussed in Micky Jo’s review of Retrograde, providing insights into the play’s themes, character portrayals, and overall impact, along with notable quotes to highlight significant observations.