‘Breaking the Code’ Play in Northampton Honors Alan Turing’s Legacy

A theatrical production titled ‘Breaking the Code’ is set to premiere at the Royal & Derngate Theatre in Northampton this September, paying homage to Alan Turing, the renowned mathematician and World War II codebreaker. The play, based on Andrew Hodges' biography ‘Alan Turing: The Enigma,’ explores the complexities of Turing's life, particularly the societal attitudes toward his sexuality that significantly impacted his existence.

Scheduled to run from September 11 to September 27, 2023, this revival of Hugh Whitemore's play incorporates new material addressing the changes in legislation surrounding historical convictions for homosexuality, particularly following Turing's royal pardon in 2013. The production will feature Mark Edel-Hunt in the titular role, with direction by Jesse Jones, the artistic director of the theater. Following its Northampton debut, the play will tour various cities, including Barnstaple, Oxford, Peterborough, Liverpool, and Manchester.

Alan Turing played a pivotal role in the Allied victory during World War II, notably through his work at Bletchley Park, where he was instrumental in deciphering German naval communications encrypted with the Enigma machine. Despite his contributions, Turing's legacy was marred by his conviction for gross indecency in 1952, a result of his homosexuality. He underwent chemical castration as a consequence of his conviction, which led to his tragic death in 1954, ruled as a suicide by cyanide poisoning, although some biographers and friends contest this finding, suggesting it may have been accidental.

The significance of Turing's story extends beyond his scientific achievements; it underscores the historical mistreatment of LGBTQ+ individuals. In 2017, ‘Turing’s Law’ was enacted, allowing for posthumous pardons for men convicted under obsolete homophobic laws. Chris Grayling, the then-Justice Minister, remarked on the royal pardon, stating, “Turing deserves to be remembered and recognized for his fantastic contribution to the war effort and his legacy to science.” This legislative amendment allows for automatic pardons for those deceased whose acts are no longer considered criminal, and it provides a pathway for living individuals to receive pardons as well.

As the play prepares to open, discussions surrounding Turing’s legacy continue to gain prominence, reflecting changing societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ rights in the UK. The production is part of the theater's ‘Made in Northampton’ season, aiming to celebrate local talent and important historical narratives.

The upcoming performances are expected to stimulate conversations about Turing's life and the broader implications of his story in the context of contemporary issues regarding sexual orientation and recognition of contributions by marginalized communities. As audiences prepare to engage with this poignant narrative, the play serves not only as a tribute to Turing's genius but also as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by those in the LGBTQ+ community.