Michael McKeever’s The Code, now playing at Southwark Playhouse Elephant, offers a compelling and stylish glimpse into the hidden realities of 1950s Hollywood. Directed by Christopher Renshaw, this London premiere brings together a stellar cast to explore the unspoken rules of an industry where image is everything and authenticity comes at a cost.
Set in the glamorous home of former screen idol turned interior designer Billy Haines, the play unfolds over a single evening as four characters collide in a battle of wit, ambition and identity. Haines, played with emotive depth by John Partridge, is contemplating a quiet exit from the spotlight. His guest, the sharp-tongued Tallulah Bankhead, is brought to life with sensational flair by Tracie Bennett, who channels a delicious blend of Bette Davis and Joan Crawford. Bennett’s performance is a masterclass in timing and presence, each line delivered with razor-sharp precision.
The arrival of power agent Henry Willson and his protégé Chad Manford sets the stage for a tense and twist-filled encounter. Nick Blakeley makes Willson thoroughly detestable, leaning into the character’s manipulative nature with chilling ease. Solomon Davy is a surprise standout as Chad, capturing the character’s naïveté and vulnerability with sincerity and charm.
McKeever’s script cleverly weaves historical context with contemporary relevance, highlighting the struggles faced by homosexuals in the industry and drawing parallels to today’s ongoing battles for authenticity and acceptance. While the narrative occasionally leans too heavily on exposition and a late-breaking fourth wall moment feels unnecessary, the play’s message is clear and powerful without needing to be spelled out.
The production design by Ethan Cheek evokes the glamour of the era, with a set that feels both opulent and lived-in, perfectly suited to the world of a celebrated interior designer. Jack Weir’s lighting adds a cinematic sheen, enhancing the mood and drama of each scene.
Though the play struggles slightly to find its natural ending, the journey is rich with intrigue and emotional resonance. The twists and turns keep the audience guessing, and the characters are drawn with enough complexity to sustain interest throughout.
A fascinating and timely piece, The Code is a stylish reminder that behind the glitz of Hollywood lies a world of secrets, sacrifices and survival.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
