Lea Michele Dazzles on Broadway in ‘Chess’: A Captivating Review of Her Triumphant Return

New York – “Chess” remains a complex puzzle. Since its debut in London in 1986, many have attempted to unravel its convoluted story about a Cold War love triangle amidst the high-stakes world of competitive chess. Despite this, the show’s catchy songs draw audiences back time and again, thanks to music from Tim Rice, Benny Andersson, and Björn Ulvaeus, known for their work with ABBA.

The recent revival at the Imperial Theatre, which opened on November 16, takes a fresh approach. It adds humor by poking fun at current politics, claiming the title of “our most entertaining Cold War musical.” This self-aware twist, while cheeky, doesn’t always land well. But it features a powerhouse cast: Lea Michele, Aaron Tveit, and Nicholas Christopher, whose performances might even win over skeptics of the show.

At its core, “Chess” tells the story of arrogant American grandmaster Freddie Trumper (Tveit) and his intense Russian rival, Anatoly Sergievsky (Christopher). Michele plays Florence Vassy, Freddie’s lover and strategist, torn by her past. Though the show uses chess as a metaphor for global tension, many of its deeper plots come off as bland. A new book by Danny Strong tries to streamline things, yet much of the CIA and KGB intrigue lacks excitement. The Arbiter’s role often feels forced, rendering moments of potential poignancy into missed opportunities for genuine connection.

Directed by Michael Mayer, this revival can feel awkward, often shying away from the melodramatic moments that could engage audiences. Instead, it leans towards humor that can get tiring. While some visual elements, like Kevin Adams’ lighting, create striking images, other design choices feel more suited for a concert rather than a Broadway production.

Yet, the cast’s talent shines through. Michele’s performance as Florence showcases her range—part fierce, part vulnerable. Her powerful voice elevates songs like “Someone Else’s Story” and “Nobody’s Side,” reaffirming her status as a top Broadway performer.

Tveit adds flair to the catchy “One Night in Bangkok,” impressing with his charm and staging. Christopher’s rich baritone brings depth to songs like “Where I Want to Be,” marking a significant moment in his career.

Together, this trio brings vibrancy to an otherwise messy revival. Their singing captivates, offering glimmers of what “Chess” could be. Ultimately, the show finds itself in an interesting place—not a total success, but not a complete failure, either.

“Chess” is now playing at the Imperial Theatre, and for those curious about how this blend of music, drama, and politics plays out, it offers a unique experience worth exploring.

If you’re interested in the nuances of this revival, you might want to check out this insightful review that discusses its box office performance.

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