Review: Chess

Hayley Canham‘s production of ‘Chess’ was, in my friend’s words ‘bloody breath-taking’. With powerful vocal performances and dynamic stage work, it’s no wonder that tickets have almost sold out for this CUMTS performance this week.

(Image credits: Paul Ashley)

‘Chess’ is about a politically-driven international chess tournament. On one side is the American Freddie Trumper (Ben Mulley), and on the other is the Russian Anatoly Sergievsky (Jude Ashcroft). Outside of the chess board, they’re also fighting over the Hungarian Florence Vassy (Neve Kennedy), who manages one and falls in love with the other.

But the thing is, it’s not actually about chess. Well, it is, but it isn’t. ‘Chess’ is a satirical allegory for the events of the Cold War. Instead of tense geopolitics, we’re given chess tournaments – which are underpinned by tense geopolitics. This somewhat explains why everyone’s being so dramatic about chess (and why the musical is infamously divisive).

The admittedly complicated plot was brought to life by the cast members. All three of the main characters shone in their roles, with ample tension created throughout. It was easy to sense Trumper’s struggle, and yet to simultaneously empathise with his opponent, Sergievsky.

Meanwhile, Florence Vassy was outright enchanting. Everyone in that room tonight was invested in her performance, with her belting vocals and tearful backstory.

Of course, this only exemplifies the heart-wrenching ending. No spoilers.

Ben Mulley in rehearsal (Image credits: Paul Ashley)

That being said, the quality of acting was high throughout the cast. The ensemble switched competently between press interviewers to bedazzled dancers, keeping us all on our toes. An honourable mention goes to Jas Ratchford, who played a very engaging Walter de Courcey. Her dynamic and bouncy performance certainly enhanced the more playful aspects of the narrative, especially during the first act.

Perhaps the most famous part of Chess is its musical legacy. The music is undoubtedly brilliant. There is no question. With musicians like Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus (yes, the men from ABBA) creating the music, and Sir Tim Rice writing the lyrics, there is no denying the fantastic score and theatrical quality of the music of ‘Chess’.

Musical director Lily Blundell tackled this musical triumph with much success.

Lively rehearsals (Image credits: Paul Ashley)

A musical highlight was the incredible duet between Florence and Molokov (Jessi Rogers). The powerful vocals and convincing acting accompanying said performance oozed an engaging enmity. Another musical moment to mention was Trumper’s solo. His emotional and powerful display as he sang of his mother, bringing him to his knees on stage, is one that will stay with the audience of tonight’s show for a long time.

The dancing was a delightful addition to the musical numbers. Clearly expertly choreographed, the lively performances added excitement to the musical that juxtaposed the heavy emotional moments and at times overt seriousness of the storyline very effectively.

My only complaint is perhaps that the ballet dancers, although obviously talented, were a little incongruous with the dramatic tournament scenes, and distracted from the actual events taking place.

Rehearsal (Photo credits: Paul Ashley)

After tonight, I am left with the sudden urge to play chess. And research the Cold War. Surely that’s a sign of a great performance?

4/5

Chess is showing on the 1st – 5th of October at 7:45 pm at the ADC Theatre. Book your tickets here.

Feature image credits: Paul Ashley

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• The Cambridge Creepies: A degree told in Halloween costumes
• Nine things to do in Cambridge if you’re chronically single
• A Day in ADC Mainshow Rehearsal: Chess