Monday, March 14, 2022

review - CHESS - Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre

(foreground) Alice Johnson, Zac Bushman, Jeremy Yampolsky,
Nick Hambruch, and Josh Hengst
Photo by Jason K. Walz

highlights from local critics reviews - (click link at bottom of each review to read complete review)

Click here for more information on this production that runs through March 20

"...While there are about a half dozen great songs in the show, and the leads and some of the supporting cast in this production are all excellent, it's just a shame that the musical is somewhat a mess, underwhelming, and a major misfire from its well-known creators....Alice Johnson perfectly projects the determination of the strong-willed Florence...As Anatoly, Nick Hambruch's beautiful, clear voice sounds gorgeous on his solos, and he and Johnson's duets are lovely....Zac Bushman is brooding, brash, bold, and perfectly pompous as Freddie. His solo, "Pity the Child," is infused with anger and hurt, and is incredibly powerful...Chess is one of several beloved musicals that have impressive scores but very weak books. Because of the familiarity with the various concert and cast recordings of the show, I'm sure theatres will continue to put it on, even as they struggle to make sense of it. While Desert Stages' production has great leads and a talented director, even they aren't able to secure a checkmate for this production."   -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)

No comments:

Post a Comment

In order to avoid spam, comments will be moderated. Anonymous comments no longer will be allowed. If your comment is from an actual person it will be approved and posted in a timely manner.