‘Chess’: Art imitating life

‘THESE are very dangerous and difficult times.’ As if the arts imitated life, this is a line from one of the many great songs in the musical ‘Chess’, which is being staged by Nenagh Choral Society next week from Tuesday, April 5 to Saturday, April 9 at 8pm in the Scouts Hall.

Set in the Cold War era, it tells the story of chess master Anatoly Sergievsky and his quest to become world chess champion, along with the political games of east/west intrigue.

Due to have been performed initially in March 2020, Chess had to be postponed with the outbreak of Covid-19. Little did the cast and committee think that, when they set out to re-stage it, another crisis would engulf the world again, namely the war in Ukraine.

Nenagh Choral Society is keenly aware of sensitivities at this time and stress that Chess is the story of a personal journey and how the relationships of the principals become entwined with world affairs. While the storyline resonates of present day global politics, it is nevertheless a love story and the sacrifices one man will make for the woman he loves.

A strong line-up of principals has been assembled for this intricate musical, written by the ABBA duo of Benny Anderson and Bjorn Ulvaeus, with lyrics by the legendary Tim Rice. Paul Browne and Kirsty Ryan are no strangers to the stage and both have superb voices. As the central characters, they bring a wealth of experience to their respective roles of Anatoly and Florence.

AIMS Best Actor winner Shane Kelly makes his debut with Nenagh Choral Society but is no stranger to musical theatre and indeed to Chess. He has performed with several societies in numerous roles. Neither Niamh Chadwick nor Paul Shesgreen, playing Svetlana and The Arbiter, need any introductions locally, having played several leading roles over many years. Andrew Whelan makes a welcome return as Molokov while Alan O'Brien steps up to the role of Walter with great aplomb. This is one of the strongest front lines assembled for a local musical and superb singing is guaranteed.

A strong chorus augments the musical experience even further as many seasoned performers with years of experience do justice to a compelling music score. The set for Chess adds to the setting of the musical. The use of projection and a stunning lighting system is sure to enhance the audience experience, while a 15-piece orchestra will undoubtedly make this a show to remember.

Society secretary Greg Browne, who also directs the show, said that Nenagh is very lucky to have such a vibrant society willing to invest hugely in bringing live theatre to local audiences. Paying tribute to his co-production team, he said that choreographer Stephanie Browne and musical director William Cullagh have both put their individual stamps on the production with engaging dance routines and top quality singing.

Society chairperson Margaret McGee acknowledged the contribution of all those not on stage but who are still vital to staging a show, including a hardworking committee, diligent front of house staff and the creative skills of the stage crew and set artists. In all, she continued that almost 80 people would be involved over the week, on and off stage. Amateur dramatics have always been strong in Tipperary and local audiences have consistently shown their appreciation by unfailing attendance. With costs approaching €50,000 to stage Chess, Nenagh Choral Society is earnestly asking all its many loyal supporters to come along to the Scouts Hall and support this ambitious undertaking. Tickets can be booked daily in the Scouts Hall or by phone on 086 3122725. A hugely entertaining night is guaranteed for a musical that the BBC has rated in the top 10 of essential musicals to be seen.