Pantomime by Derek Walcott is a two-act play that examines the complex relationship between Harry Trewe, an English hotel owner, and Jackson Phillip, his Creole servant, in Tobago. Through their evolving dynamic, which includes rehearsals of a play adaptation of Robinson Crusoe, Walcott uses clever dialogue and humor to explore themes of colonialism and racial inequality. The play contains sensitive topics, including racial slurs and discussions of colonialism.

A reader who enjoys Pantomime by Derek Walcott is likely to appreciate complex explorations of postcolonial themes, rich dialogue, and layered character dynamics. This reader might also enjoy works like Athol Fugard’s Master Harold...and the Boys or Wole Soyinka’s A Dance of the Forests.

Derek Walcott’s Pantomime masterfully explores post-colonial themes through a complex interplay of humor and tension between its characters. Critics praise its sharp dialogue and thought-provoking narrative but note that the play's deep cultural references may challenge some readers. Overall, it is regarded as both insightful and entertaining.

Gritty / Humorous / Contemplative / Challenging

- Pantomime by Derek Walcott was first performed in 1978 and combines elements of comedy and social commentary, exploring themes of post-colonial identity and cultural exchange.
- The play is set in Tobago and revolves around the interactions between a retired English actor and his Creole servant, using the plot device of Robinson Crusoe as a stage play-within-a-play to explore power dynamics.
- Walcott, a Nobel Laureate in Literature, often infuses his works with rich Caribbean culture and history, which is vividly depicted in the dialog and setting of Pantomime.

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