What is the 'Chess' musical about?

The 'Chess' musical tells the story of the Cold War chess rivalry between American player Freddie Trumper and Soviet player Anatoly Sergievsky, with Florence Vassy caught in the middle.

How did Lea Michele's performance in the 'Chess' revival compare to her previous Broadway roles?

Lea Michele's performance as Florence Vassy in the 'Chess' revival was praised for her vocal prowess and commanding presence on stage, solidifying her return to Broadway after her previous role in 'Funny Girl'.

What were the main challenges faced by the 'Chess' revival production?

The 'Chess' revival production struggled with a convoluted plot and underdeveloped characters, as the revised book by Danny Strong aimed to provide wider historical context but ultimately fell short.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Lea Michele Dazzles in Uneven 'Chess' Revival on Broadway

Lea Michele Dazzles in Uneven 'Chess' Revival on Broadway

17 Nov

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Summary

'Chess' musical has long history of revisions, with new book by Danny Strong
Lea Michele delivers powerful performance, solidifying her return to Broadway
Production struggles with convoluted plot and underdeveloped characters

Lea Michele Dazzles in Uneven 'Chess' Revival on Broadway

Seven months ago, a revival of the musical 'Chess' opened on Broadway, featuring music and lyrics by ABBA's Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, and Tim Rice. The production, directed by Michael Mayer and with a new book by Danny Strong, aimed to breathe new life into the famously messy and reworked musical.

At the center of the revival was a standout performance by Lea Michele as Florence Vassy, the woman caught in the middle of the Cold War chess rivalry between American player Freddie Trumper (Aaron Tveit) and Soviet player Anatoly Sergievsky (Nicholas Christopher). Michele's vocal prowess and commanding presence on stage solidified her return to Broadway, as she shared the stage with her co-stars without ever overpowering or scene-stealing.