Chess

Like many companies, M.A.M.A  had to postpone their production of Chess for over two years. This meant that several changes had to be made but this small cast rose admirably to the challenge of presenting this hugely demanding and powerful musical. The hard work by the ensemble, principal cast and production team resulted in a most slick and enjoyable staging of ‘CHESS.’

An excellent principal cast were most convincing in their roles, each establishing his or her own character from the onset. The Arbiter (Gordon Horne) made an immediate impact opening the show and kept the narrative of the piece moving along purposefully with his excellent, clear and impressive singing voice.

The three main characters involved in the love triangle were strongly portrayed and their angst and intensity totally believable. Anatoly (Paull Lyall) the Russian chess player gave a most convincing performance conveying his struggle and conflict in deciding what he really wanted - to be a chess champion or follow his love for Florence. His ‘Anthem’ closing act one was powerful and captivating. Anatoly’s American opponent, Frederick was strongly played by Craig McKirgan. A ruthless, ill mannered and devious man with a powerful voice yet one who gave an insight into his soul as he showed his vulnerability in an emotional ‘Pity The Child.’

Florence (Alison Henry) was quite superb. There are so many contrasting styles of music in CHESS and Alison had  such variation in her voice from the powerful ‘Nobody’s Child’ to the emotive ‘Heaven Help My Heart’ and the romantic ‘Mountain Duet‘ with Anatoly.

One of the most poignant moments in the show was the arrival of Svetlana (Monty Ray) who immediately gained our sympathy with ‘Someone Else’s Story’. One really felt the pain for her and Florence in the show stopping ‘I Know Him So Well’.

Molokov (Zorbey Turkalp) commanded the stage with his wonderful stage presence and fabulous voice. Alan Paterson gave a fine performance as Walter De Courcey.

These talented main characters were well supported by a chorus who although small in number worked hard adapting to the various scenarios and who were strong vocally making a full sound with harmonies coming across well. Choreography throughout was well thought out to suit the mood and delivered with precision. ’Merano’ and ‘One Night In Bangkok’ were vivacious and energetic and contrasted well with the more balletic ‘Chess Game’.

The simple staging and use of rostra enabled the best use of space on the ‘chess board’ flat area and the varying levels with the high level chess table most effective.

Congratulations also to the orchestra who have no respite in this musical.

This was altogether a thoroughly enjoyable production and was well worth waiting two years to see. Great work M.A.M.A.

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