Review: Codachrome,  A Live DJ Set About The Time I Fell In Love With A [Trigger Warning], Theatre Deli

I didn’t know what I expected from Codachrome: a live DJ set about the time I fell in love with a [trigger warning]. The show promised to mix theatre and a live DJ performance, and I was interested in how well the two would go together.

When I arrived at Theatre Deli, the sense of the unexpected increased, as I found that this is one of London’s oddest theatres. Located inside an office block, past an official-looking reception and next to co-working spaces, the environment feels corporate, in a modern, laid-back tech company way. Even on a Saturday night, there were meetings taking place in a glass-walled room near the performance space where Codachrome took place. However, when I stepped into that space, I was instantly transported to a different place.

Pounding dance music fills the room as Everleigh Brenner DJs. There are lights and projectors, and the audience is invited to dance. When the show begins, the music continues, but two performers – Brenner and Maria Cristina Petitti – either speak to the audience or perform short scenes together; while still DJing.

The narrative follows the chaotic, intense and brief romantic and sexual relationship between the characters of Remy, the DJ, and Robbie, a footballer. The writing and performances are raw and passionate: the scenes scream with intense emotions, and I viscerally experienced this messy and unorthodox relationship.

Codachrome tackles difficult issues head-on, exploring abuse, rape, abortion and dark sexual fantasies. This is not done to shock; rather, it feels honest about how messy and strange relationships can be. All of this is grounded by strong performances that emphasise the humanity of the characters.

There is a tonal clash between the upbeat dance music, and the positive sensation of dancing, and the dark themes explored. The audience defaulted to watching the show rather than participating, and the dancing from the spectators dropped off quickly, seemingly reluctant to break the deeply ingrained social code of silently watching a performance and not doing anything disruptive.

Codachrome is a bold attempt to do something different, to mix mediums and create a production that is more participatory and immersive. Without the DJ elements, the written and spoken portions of Codachrome are similar to many other fringe shows: a simple story about an interpersonal relationship that uses minimal sets and props. Where it excels is in the use of lights to create mood and in the script, which packs a punch. The music throughout further heightens the intense feelings the writing provokes.

The final monologue ends the narrative powerfully, as the story escapes into fantasy and moves the lens wider, with writing that is reminiscent of Kae Tempest; an uplifting note to end on.

Codachrome is a partially successful experiment that comes up against some of the limitations of audiences unsure about mixed mediums. This attempt to do something different, to defy conventions and be experimental, should be applauded. And this show is certainly fresh.

Directed by & starring Everleigh Brenner and Maria Cristina Petitti
Produced by Hoo Hah House

Codachrome has completed its performances at Theatre Deli.