A brand-new London production of The Code by acclaimed playwright Michael McKeever will open at Southwark Playhouse Elephant this autumn.
Running from 12 September to 11 October 2025, with an official opening night on 17 September, The Code will be directed by Drama Desk Award-winner and Tony nominee Christopher Renshaw.
Two-time Olivier Award winner Tracie Bennett will lead the cast as Tallulah Bankhead, alongside stage and screen favourite John Partridge as Billy Haines.
Joining them are Solomon Davy as Chad Manford and Nick Blakeley as Henry Willson.
The Code explores the hidden rules of Hollywood, both past and present, in a world where image is everything and identity is carefully curated.
Playwright Michael McKeever said: “I am thrilled to bring this show to London. I look forward to seeing what this splendid team will do with it. It’s fascinating to me how relevant the issues in the play have become in these strange times in which we live.”
Director Christopher Renshaw added: “I am genuinely excited to be at Southwark Playhouse Elephant, directing this wonderful quartet of actors in this equally wonderful play.”
Producer Jim Kierstead commented: “It gives me great pleasure to bring this brilliantly inspiring and timely show to London with our incredible producing team. Working with Chris and Michael and this talented group of actors and creatives is a dream come true.”
Set in 1950s Hollywood, The Code follows a fading star, a rising one, an ambitious agent, and a legendary actress as they navigate a world where survival means playing by the rules—or breaking them.
“This entire town is a cesspool, darling. Beautifully lit. Well appointed. But a cesspool nonetheless.”
The creative team includes set and costume design by Ethan Cheek, lighting design by Jack Weir, and casting by Nicholas Hockaday. The full creative team will be announced soon.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
