Solomon Davy joins a stellar cast in The Code, a gripping new play by Michael McKeever, playing at Southwark Playhouse Elephant.
Set in 1950s Hollywood, The Code explores the politics of identity and image in a world where authenticity comes at a cost.
Performances run until 11 October 2025. Tickets are available here
You’re starring in The Code at Southwark Playhouse Elephant – what can you tell us about the show?
The show explores 1950s Hollywood. The good, the bad, the ugly and everything in between.
The Code explores the hidden rules of Hollywood, what drew you to the role of Chad Manford?
When I first read the script, I was drawn to both the piece as a whole and Chad as a character. I knew it was a role that would push me as an actor within a show very different to anything I’ve worked on so far. This really excited me, so when I was offered the opportunity, it was a big fat yes.
Right now, I’m hungry to be stretched as an actor, and I knew this would do exactly that.
What has it been like working alongside Tracie Bennett, John Partridge, and Nick Blakeley in this production?
Working alongside this team has been a dream. I feel so lucky to be surrounded by such inspiring actors.
They have been extremely welcoming to me as the youngest in the room, and playing with such pros is truly inspiring.
The play is set in 1950s Hollywood, how does that era influence the story and your character?
It’s hard to explain without giving too much away. As some will know, Hollywood was not—and is not—the pretty, perfect paradise it’s presented to be.
A lot of this comes from the mixing pot of extreme personalities it glorifies: sometimes good, sometimes bad, and sometimes (in the case of Chad) yet to be decided…
What has the rehearsal process been like under the direction of Christopher Renshaw?
Chris is very freeing as a director. He trusts his actors in a way that makes for the best kind of chemistry and flow on stage.
When it’s over-complicated and there’s no room to play, it can feel forced and result in a piece that has the essence of something that could have been great but just isn’t.
Chris understands this and purposefully avoids it, giving each member of the team room to follow instincts. The result is a show whose foundation is a natural mix of everyone’s unique creative input.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see The Code?
Ace cast. Iconic period. Gripping story. Drink, drugs and drama.
Surely you don’t wanna miss that?
