Alongside the world première of Retrograde at Kiln Theatre, a duo of Sidney Poitier’s films will be screened in Kiln Cinema to accompany the production on stage. Ryan Calais Cameron’s new play, set in 1950s Hollywood, is based on a true event in the life of the legendary actor.
Romantic comedy Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner – co-starring Katherine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy – is set in the aftermath of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, boldly tackling themes of race and interracial relations at a time where the latter was only recently decriminalised and was still a taboo. Over the course of one day, raw conversations expose the faultlines between thought and deed.
A 1972 American Western, Buck and the Preacher Sidney Poitier made his mark not just as an actor, but also as a filmmaker with this, his directorial debut. Co-starring the magnetic Harry Belafonte, it’s a showcase for Poitier’s talent in front of and behind the camera. A hilarious buddy movie, Buck and the Preacher is also thoughtful about the racial dynamics of the founding of the United States, including its indigenous peoples. In a sparkling new 4K restoration, it is a testament to Sidney Poitier’s risk-taking and ambition in carving a path in Hollywood.
A Q&A with Kiln Associate Director Amit Sharma, who is directing Retrograde, will precede both films. He will be joined by Retrograde playwright, Ryan Calais Cameron on 9th May. Tickets are £10 with discounts available for bookers of Retrograde, Brent & Camden residents and Under 26s.
9 May, 7pm
Q&A with Amit Sharma and Ryan Calais Cameron, followed by Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner
23 May, 7pm
Q&A with Amit Sharma, followed by Buck and the Preacher
From the writer of the award-winning, smash hit For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy, Ryan Calais Cameron, Retrograde will be directed by Kiln Associate Director Amit Sharma, and the cast includes Ian Bonar (Bobby), Ivanno Jeremiah (Sidney), and Daniel Lapaine (Mr Parks).
Retrograde will open at Kiln Theatre on 26 April, with previews from 20 April, and will run until 27 May 2023.
