“A dramatic stage performance with illuminated spotlights and actors in a theatrical musical setting, representing a scene from the Broadway revival of ‘Chess.’”

Lea Michele Shines in Broadway’s New ‘Chess’ Revival

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Lea Michele Leads Bold New Revival of ‘Chess’ on Broadway

The long-awaited Broadway revival of Chess has finally arrived — and with it comes massive buzz, strong voices, and plenty of debate. Starring Lea Michele, Aaron Tveit, and Nicholas Christopher, the new production attempts to fix one of Broadway’s most famously “broken” musicals. But does it succeed?

Here’s a clear, easy-to-read breakdown of what this new version gets right, what still doesn’t work, and why Chess continues to fascinate fans nearly 40 years after its debut.

What Is Chess About?

Chess is a Cold War–era musical created by:

  • Tim Rice (lyricist for The Lion King and Evita)
  • Benny Andersson & Björn Ulvaeus of ABBA

The story follows:

  • Anatoly – A Russian chess champion
  • Freddie – His American rival
  • Florence – The woman between them

It’s a mix of politics, intense rivalries, and an emotional love triangle — all set against a global chess championship.

Why the Musical Is So Hard to Get Right

Although the songs are iconic — “One Night in Bangkok,” “I Know Him So Well,” “Nobody’s Side” — the musical has always struggled with:

  • Confusing storytelling
  • Too many versions of the script
  • A plot that jumps between politics and romance

Even lyricist Tim Rice admitted Chess is a “wayward child” that nobody has been able to fully fix… until now?

Broadway’s 2025 Revival: What’s New?

This revival is directed by:

  • Michael Mayer (Spring Awakening)
  • Danny Strong (creator of Empire & Dopesick)

Their version tries to do three main things:

1. Put the spotlight on the music

Most reviews agree the score is the strongest part — and now it gets the attention it deserves.

2. Add a narrator (The Arbiter)

Bryce Pinkham plays an over-the-top, comedic guide who explains the political chaos and chess battles.

Some viewers love it. Others think it breaks the mood.

3. Clean up the love triangle

Lea Michele’s Florence is given more emotional weight and clearer motivation than previous versions.

The Performances: The Show’s Biggest Strength

Lea Michele as Florence Vassy

Lea Michele delivers one of her strongest Broadway performances to date. Her powerhouse vocals soar in:

  • “Nobody’s Side”
  • “Heaven Help My Heart”
  • “Someone Else’s Story”

Even critics who disliked the show agree she sounds incredible.

Nicholas Christopher as Anatoly

His rendition of “Anthem” brings the house down — one reviewer said it was “the best version ever performed.”

Aaron Tveit as Freddie

Wild, chaotic, brilliant — everything Freddie should be.
He nails the impossible high notes in “Pity the Child.”

The Production: Stunning Visuals

Reviewers praised:

  • Bold red vs. blue lighting (Russia vs. USA)
  • A sleek modern set
  • A 16-member ensemble mirroring chess pieces
  • Energetic choreography, especially in “One Night in Bangkok”

The production looks expensive, polished, and cinematic.

What Critics Didn’t Like

Not everything is perfect. Critics pointed out:

Some modern jokes feel forced

References to Biden, RFK Jr., and brain worms didn’t land well.

The Arbiter’s narration is divisive

Fun, but sometimes too “wink-wink.”

Plot still feels messy

Even after 40 years, no one can fully fix the storytelling.

“Someone Else’s Story” placement feels random

Lea Michele sings it beautifully, but it doesn’t naturally fit the scene.

Audience Reaction vs. Critic Reviews

Critics:

Mixed. Some call it chaotic but fun; others think it still can’t be saved.

Audiences:

Overwhelmingly positive — especially about the performances and the energy.

Fans of ABBA / musical theatre:

LOVE this revival because the music finally gets the spotlight it deserves.

Is the New Chess Worth Seeing?

If you love:

  • Huge vocals
  • High drama
  • Big Broadway staging
  • Lea Michele belting her face off

YES. It’s absolutely worth it.

If you want a perfectly structured story?

Chess has never been that show — and still isn’t.

But the revival embraces its flaws, much like the Japanese art of kintsugi, where broken pottery is repaired with gold. This Chess may not be perfect, but its imperfections are part of its charm.

Summary

  • The 2025 Broadway revival of Chess is bold, messy, and deeply entertaining.
  • Lea Michele, Aaron Tveit, and Nicholas Christopher deliver outstanding performances.
  • Visual design and choreography are standout elements.
  • The story remains complicated, but the music shines brighter than ever.


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