Donné Ngabo has earned critical acclaim for his portrayal of legendary actor Sidney Poitier in Retrograde, a new production by Melbourne Theatre Company. Written by Ryan Calais Cameron and directed by Bert La Bonté, the play dramatizes a fictionalised meeting in 1950s Hollywood where Poitier faces pressure to sign a controversial loyalty oath during the height of McCarthyism. Critics praised Ngabo’s commanding stage presence, vocal precision and emotional depth, while also highlighting strong supporting performances from Alan Dale and Josh McConville. The production has been described as timely, tense and politically resonant, examining racism, conformity and the personal cost of success in the entertainment industry.