Chess

What's Chess Like?

The Game and the Stakes

Chess centers on a high-stakes international chess championship during the Cold War, where the game becomes a metaphor for global tensions. American champion Freddie Trumper and Soviet grandmaster Anatoly Sergievsky face off not just on the board, but as symbolic rivals in a larger geopolitical conflict.

Love and Betrayal

Florence Vassy, Freddie’s brilliant and emotionally complex second, finds herself torn between loyalty to Freddie and her deepening feelings for Anatoly. As Anatoly defects to the West, their personal and romantic entanglements are exploited by manipulative political operatives, threatening both relationships and reputations.

Power, Politics, and Sacrifice

With a dynamic score by ABBA’s Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, and lyrics by Tim Rice, Chess explores how individuals become pawns in political games. Its iconic songs—like “One Night in Bangkok” and “I Know Him So Well”—underscore the show’s themes of love, ambition, and moral compromise.

Is Chess Good for Kids?

Chess is not generally recommended for young children. Here's why:

Themes

The show deals with mature topics including Cold War politics, defection, emotional manipulation, infidelity, and political exploitation. The love triangle and psychological complexity of the characters are more suited to older teens and adults.

Language and Content

Some productions of Chess may include strong language, references to sexual relationships, and emotionally intense scenes. While it’s not overtly graphic, the tone and themes are more adult-oriented than family-friendly.

Music and Style

The music is sophisticated and dramatic, with songs like "Nobody's Side" and "Anthem" requiring emotional context to fully appreciate. Kids may find the story difficult to follow, especially without a grounding in the Cold War backdrop.

Recommended Age

Best for ages 13+ with parental guidance. Not ideal for elementary-aged children. Let me know if you'd like suggestions for more kid-friendly Broadway shows.

Chess on Broadway Background