Street Theatre Company Presents CHESS in Concert, 2/24-27

In May of 2008 at the Royal Albert Hall, London, there were two spectacular, standing room only, performances of Chess in Concert, with story and lyrics by Tim Rice (Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita, The Lion King) and music by Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson (Mamma Mia!), formerly of ABBA.  Chess in Concert received its TV premiere in June 2009 and was subsequently shown in mainstream cinemas throughout the UK.  Street Theatre Company is thrilled to announce that they are the first company in the U.S. to secure rights to this spectacular "in concert" production that Tim Rice says he hopes "will be the model of future productions."   The musical has a long history with multiple versions from concept album to British and finally American productions.

Chess in Concert is a complex rock opera in which the ancient game becomes a metaphor for romantic rivalries, competitive gamesmanship, super power politics and international intrigue. The loutish American chess star, the earnest Russian champion and a Hungarian American female assistant form an international love triangle in which lovers, politicians, and spies manipulate and are manipulated to the pulse of a monumental rock score.  Although the protagonists were not intended to represent any specific individuals, the characters' personalities are loosely based on those of Victor Korchnoi and Bobby Fischer who died earlier in 2008.

This spectacular concert features Michael Kitts, Jeffrey Williams, Laura Matula along with other local favorite performers in the lead roles, as well as a unique Chess choir of over 30 voices, directed by Lauren Shouse and musical directed by Rollie Mains.  Performances are one weekend only, February 24-27, with performances Thursday and Friday at 8:00 p.m., Saturday at 2:00 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 5 p.m.  Tickets are $16 and $14 and are available online at www.streettheatrecompany.org.  Performances are at Street Theatre, 1933 Elm Hill Pike, just off the Briley Parkway.  For more information, call 615-554-7414.

Street Theatre Company is a non-profit arts organization dedicated to fostering professional, affordable and accessible theatre, music and arts education in Nashville.  Founded in 2004, the organization produces high quality performances and educational workshops, and provides artistic opportunities for young people.  For more information, visit www.streettheatrecompany.org.

Photo Credit: HATCHER AND FELL PHOTOGRAPHY