Chess (Musical) Lyrics
Chess Lyrics
- Act 1
- Merano
- The Russian And Molokov Where I Want To Be
- Opening Ceremony
- Quartet
- The American And Florence Nobodys Side
- Chess
- Mountain Duet
- Florence Quits
- Embassy Lament Anthem
- Anthem
- Act 2
- One Night In Bankok
- Heaven Help My Heart
- Argument
- I Know Him So Well
- The Deal (No Deal)
- Pity The Child
- Endgame
- Epilogue: You And I The Story (Reprise)
Chess Musical Description
This musical was originally created for the West End, that is, for an English audience, but after its success there, it was decided to transfer it to Broadway and to re-do completely, leaving only the skeleton of the story, and everything else was modifiable – music, libretto, set of songs, lyrics. The decision was made to adapt a musical to the audience of the United States. Including the nationality of Freddie’s lover and switching the original world chess champion. But these were just minor details, because after changes in the musical, dialogues were about a third of the play, rather than a few minutes, as before.
Despite the fact that the West End has shown good performance, the Broadway version could not make a big miracle, and because of the constant small ticket sales, the musical was closed just after 68 performances (not including 17 previews). The show closed with a negative financial result, as ticket sales brought in almost always less than the minimum required amount for the continuation of its productions. Gerald Schoenfeld, one of the producers, admitted that advances from theater lovers were not enough for the general public to show it lasted on, and it generally worked on 80% of its power.
Despite the financial setback, the show received five Drama Desk Awards and two nominations for a Tony. Also, the director received 1 Theatre World Award, and the recording of the music from the show was nominated for a Grammy in 1988, but the award then went to a much more interesting and exciting musical Into the Woods by Stephen Sondheim.
Later versions of the musical were processed to improve the show and eliminate the defects of the American version, as a version of West End could not play anywhere except the UK, according to the terms of the production contract. After the removal of this condition in 2011, a good version became a frequent visitor to the United States.
Release date: 1997
Review: Chess – A Cold War Opera of Passion and Power.
From Concept Album to Stage Triumph.
Chess emerged in 1984 as a concept album by Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, and Tim Rice. The album featured performances by Elaine Paige, Barbara Dickson, Murray Head, and Tommy Körberg. The standout track, "I Know Him So Well", became a UK chart-topper, holding the number one spot for four weeks in 1985 and remains the best-selling UK chart single ever by a female duo.Stage Adaptations and Global Reach.
Enduring Legacy of "I Know Him So Well".
The duet "I Know Him So Well" has been covered by various artists over the years, including a 2012 rendition by Melanie C and Emma Bunton. Its poignant lyrics continue to resonate with audiences, solidifying its place as a classic in musical theatre.Questions and Answers.
- What is the central theme of Chess?
- The musical explores Cold War tensions through a love triangle involving two chess grandmasters and a woman.
- Who composed the music for Chess?
- Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, with lyrics by Tim Rice.
- When was the original concept album released?
- October 26, 1984.
- Which song from Chess became a UK chart-topping hit?
- "I Know Him So Well" by Elaine Paige and Barbara Dickson.
- Has Chess been adapted internationally?
- Yes, it has seen various productions worldwide, including in Sweden, Denmark, and the U.S.