Chess in Concert

I know that chess sounds like it would be the worst possible subject for musical, but you have to trust me. So Chess is basically about the World Chess Tournament during the Cold War. And here's what's crazy about it, the match is between an American, and a Soviet. So pretty much a really big deal.

Also if you love Idina Menzel, Adam Pascal, or JOSH GROBAN, you will love Chess because they are all in it. Win. But of course, I should give you more proof.

They are all so beautiful.

Here's a basic rundown of the characters.

Anatoly, played by Josh Groban, is the Russian opponent in the chess match, wins against the American (Freddie, played by Adam Pascal), and leaves Russia and becomes a British citizen so he can be with his opponent's second (Florence, played by Idina Menzel). In doing this, Anatoly is leaving behind a wife and children in Russia. 

Btw, I'm going to skip most of the songs from act one because there are a lot of them and my favorite one's are in the second act.

The reason Florence leaves Freddie is expressed in her song Nobody's Side.

Never take a stranger's advice
Never let a friend fool you twice
Nobody's on nobody's side

Get it Idina. Now a song with Mr. Groban. This is when Anatoly decides to leave Russia after becoming world champion in chess and his response to the situation. Soooo beautiful. Yes, Josh Groban is beautiful, but this time I'm talking about the song. I love it. Anthem. Also the conductor is adorable.

How can I leave her?
Where would I start?
Let man's petty nations tear themselves apart
My land's only borders lie around my heart

End of Act 1

In the second act, Anatoly as world champion has to play a Russian, Viigand, to defend his title. The Soviets want Viigand to win because Anatoly is no longer a citizen. The recruit Freddie from the first match and convince him to trick Anatoly into purposefully losing the match. Let's take a glimpse into Freddie's life story shall we? Pity the Child.

I took the road of least resistance
I had my game to play
I had the skill, and more -- the hunger
Easy to get away

Apparently, this song is also referred to as "Pity the Singer" because it's an extremely difficult song to sing. In my opinion, Pascal's performance is flawless.

Now that I've posted songs of Groban, Menzel, and Pascal, it's time I posted my favorite song. This is the song where Anatoly is playing the last game against Viigand, while also arguing (in song!) with his lover, Florence, and his wife. All at once! AAHHH it's so amazing. Very intense. If you want to skip all the instrumental stuff start at the one minute mark. Endgame.

Anyone can be
A husband, lover--
Sooner them than me,
When they discover
Their domestic bliss is
Shelter for their failing

Super cool. I just watched that like five times. 


So yeah, I'm kind of tired of writing now, so just go watch it. All of it is on youtube, but you should buy the dvd, it is TOTALLY worth it. Go now. Go.


Here Be Dragons