Chess

‘Chess’ is a ‘sung through’ musical with lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus. The story involves a romantic triangle between two players in a world chess championship, and a woman who manages one and falls in love with the other. With the first performance in the mid 80’s it is probably remembered for two songs... One night in Bangkok & I know him so well. As a musical theatre fanatic I think this is like saying the only thing worth remembering about ‘Fiddler’ is If I were a rich man and no one says that!

 ‘Chess’ is a complex story with complex music and to be a success both have to be handled  with care , talent and expertise... there is no doubt, CLOC did full justice to this show.

An inventive, well designed black and white set allowed the cast to be positioned with ease and interest. Podiums, circular staircases, multi coloured light boxes (superbly effective)  Russian and US flags and cleverly engineered  projection to portray change of  scenes, political intrigue and the chess game, were all used with ease and skill....the complete package in one set with the addition of stage props, very well done.

The lighting was adventurous, slick and demonstrated understanding of emotions, love, anger political intrigue and sadness, well done lighting team, that took talent! The sound was excellent well balanced and very clear.

The music was divine… the MD took the orchestra  on a wonderful  tour, from lilting melodies to harsh chords, all building atmosphere time and time again, and just when you had been wrung out with Anthem, Someone Else’s Story and Heaven Help My Heart, we were strung out again with You and I…… so so good!

On the first night there was a little insecurity from the company, occasional hesitation, waiting for someone else  to begin, but nerves and adrenaline were obviously on board!  The company singing was tuneful, harmonious and the diction and sound was excellent.  Diction needs to be good in a ‘sung through’ show as it tells the story, here there were no problems.  Among the company were many cameo roles which were all performed extremely well.

The principals were each outstandingly good, what a lot of talent in one place.  It would be difficult to find fault with any of them.  Very well done principal team, you brought enormous pleasure to this Noda Rep!

Good direction was clear, everyone was well rehearsed, in the right place at the right time and interesting pictures were created. Characterisations were understandable and the story came across clearly. Pace was very good.

Knowing the difficulties and sad time that CLOC encountered during the rehearsal period, this whole team created a very special production, dedicated to a very special man, and I congratulate you all

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