CHESS

Jason Seperic wrote:

"Overall; some nice ideas. But executionally disappointing, nonetheless... I think they would have been better off presenting this 'concert' version as a traditional Oratorio, with chorus, soloists, and orchestra all sharing the stage (black tie formal) -- at least then, the 'austerity' the director was shooting for would have worked."

I've always thought that Chess is flawed as a theatre piece- it's essentially a concept album adapted for the stage. A "recital" version would still work (and better), and probably focus the audience's attention to the often excruciatingly witty libretto.

The version of Chess I was involved in ten-or-so years ago suffered in its staging as essentially every time Freddie or Florence (or Molokov and the Russian et al) had a scene together there was nothing for them to do onstage except stand at either end of the stage singing at each other. Just like a recording studio. Not really the director's fault- the "show" doesn't lend itself to action in the traditional musical sense.

I mean, really; how exciting and theatrical CAN you make a plot about the world's most static sport where the lyrics are essentially dialogue about the Cold War? Without technology, pyrotechnics, extreme choreography and a budget for all of this, it's a hard ask. I can just see the sequel; "Smiley's People- The Musical" Music by Elton John, lyrics by Tim Rice- adapted from the insomnia cure by John Le Carre...

El