Duration
1 hr 40 mins
Closing Date
Until June 14, 2025
Age limit
Suitable for 14+ yrs
Why Watch Retrograde?
- Retrograde is an all-new, high-impact play that garnered several five-star reviews and standing ovations during its previous run at the Kiln Theatre.
- Watch Ivanno Jeremiah's 'tremendous' (TimeOut) performance in 'the finest new play about a pivotal, still pertinent, moment in civil rights history' (The Telegraph).
- Olivier Award-nominated playwright Ryan Calais Cameron brings this powerful exploration of systemic racism in collaboration with Amit Sharma.
- Follow Sidney, a young black man looking to make it big in Hollywood, as he navigates the pressures of the movie business with tickets for Retrograde play at London's Apollo Theatre.
Written by Ryan Calais Cameron, Retrograde is a fresh explosive drama that delves deeply into identity politics, resiliency, and integrity. Retrograde follows a black actor in the 1950s as he attempts to make it big in Hollywood, revealing the challenges he endures and the dark temptations that test his identity. Cameron was awarded the Black British Theatre Awards 2022 for For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy and continues his winning streak in this critically acclaimed production. The moving play examines a watershed event in the life of an industry legend, one that changed the course of history, influenced public opinion, and set in stone the legend's place in Hollywood. As we see him struggle to claim his rightful place in history, we are forced to ask - how far has civilization truly evolved?
Storyline
In 1955 Hollywood's corridors of power, Sidney Poitier confronts a Faustian bargain that could define generations of artists after him. Before him lies a complicated choice: ink a deeply lucrative contract that requires him to denounce his morals or be banished from the hallowed halls of stardom forever. 10 years before Sidney made history as the first Black actor with an Oscar, he was just a man facing a dilemma. Which path did he take? Find out who wins in a battle between personal ambition and collective liberation with tickets to Retrogade play in London.
Show timings
Mon, Tue, Thu & Fri at 7:30 PM | Wed & Sat at 2:30 PM & 7:30 PM
Cast & Crew
Leading Roles: Ivanno Jeremiah as Sidney Poitier, Stanley Townsend, and Oliver Johnstone
Director: Amit Sharma
Writer: Ryan Calais Cameron
Apollo Theatre
Located in the heart of the West End, Apollo Theatre is one of Shaftesbury Avenue’s historic gems. Named after the Greek god of the arts and music, the Apollo Theatre is a mainstay of musical entertainment in London. The theater has a rich history of showcasing incredible productions, from the 1901 comedy The Belle of Bohemia to recent hits like Rain Man. With its grand Edwardian façade and stylish Art déco interiors, the Apollo offers a uniquely intimate theatre experience in central London. Whether you’re seeing a limited-run political comedy or a big-name musical, it’s a venue that combines vintage charm with excellent sightlines. The Apollo Theatre seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Getting There
- Address: Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 7EZ, UK
- By metro:
The closest tube station is Piccadilly Circus, served by the Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines.
- By train:
The closest train station is London Charing Cross, a 10-minute walk from the theater.
- By bus:
Buses to Piccadilly Circus and Shaftesbury Avenue – 12, 14, 19, and 38; Buses to Regent Street – 6, 13, 15, 23, 88, 94, 139, 159, and 453
Facilities & Accessibility
Amenities: Toilets, Dining outlets, Cloak room, Souvenir shop
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, Service animals allowed, Elevator access
Additional Information
- Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
- Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
- Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show.
Tickets Redemption
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Cancellation & Refunds
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Frequently asked questions
The cost of the tickets starts from £22 and will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
The play does not have a strict age limit. However, it is most suitable for children aged and above.
The show is playing at Apollo Theatre in London.
Retrograde follows the journey of Sidney, an Oscar winning black actor, before he rose to stardom in 1950s Hollywood.
The running time is 90 min with no intermission.
Retrograde opens on 8th March 2025 at Apollo Theatre.
No, outside food is not allowed while attending Retrograde. Most theatres do have a cafeteria or bar inside the premises where you can get snacks and drinks.
