Chess | Musical Theatre Dunedin

Musical Theatre Dunedin presents

The

Season of

From the legendary songwriters of ABBA and the genius behind Jesus Christ Superstar comes a powerhouse musical of love, politics, and betrayal—set against the high-stakes world of international chess.

Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, Chess the Musical is a gripping tale of love, rivalry, and political intrigue. The story follows two chess grandmasters—one American, one Soviet—who face off in a high-stakes world championship match. But the real battle isn’t just on the chessboard.

As tensions rise between the superpowers, personal conflicts take centre stage. The American champion, Freddie Trumper, is a brash, unpredictable genius, while his Soviet rival, Anatoly Sergievsky, is calm and strategic—but deeply conflicted. Caught between them is Florence Vassy, Freddie’s second and lover, who soon finds herself torn between loyalty and love. When Anatoly defects to the West, the stakes become even higher, leading to a heart-wrenching showdown where no one truly wins.

Featuring iconic songs like "One Night in Bangkok", "I Know Him So Well", and "Anthem", Chess the Musical delivers a thrilling mix of rock, pop, and theatrical grandeur. As rival chess masters battle for glory and the woman they both love, the game becomes more than just strategy—it’s a fight for power, loyalty, and survival.

Don’t miss your chance to witness this electrifying masterpiece live on stage! Checkmate has never been so dramatic.

By arrangement with Three Knights Limited, The Shubert Organisation Inc

and Robert Fox Limited

BENNY ANDERSSON TIM RICE BJORN ULVAEUS

Licensed exclusively by Music Theatre International (Australasia).

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