What I liked
I really liked how clearly the production showed the personal cost of winning. The dynamics between Freddie, Anatoly, and Florence felt layered instead of one-dimensional, and the direction made their emotional shifts easy to follow even when the politics got complicated.
The music was a huge highlight. Classic songs like “One Night in Bangkok” and “I Know Him So Well” were performed with a lot of power, and the ensemble sound was rich without overpowering the soloists. The staging and lighting also helped to separate the chess matches from the more intimate scenes, which kept the story visually interesting from start to finish.
What I didn't like
At times the plot moved very quickly, especially for anyone who doesn’t already know the story of Chess. A little more clarity in a few transitions—particularly when the action shifts locations or political alliances change—would make it easier for new audiences to stay fully invested.
There were also a couple of moments where the sound mix made lyrics slightly hard to catch, especially during bigger ensemble numbers. Tightening the balance between vocals and orchestra would help make sure some of the important emotional lines aren’t lost.
My overall impression
Overall, I found this production of Chess to be a smart, emotionally charged show that balances politics, relationships, and competition surprisingly well. The story moves from intimate personal moments to high-stakes international tension, and the cast manages to keep both threads engaging.
The mix of drama, humour, and big musical numbers made the evening feel like a complete experience rather than “just” a concert or “just” a play. It’s the kind of show I would easily recommend to anyone who enjoys character-driven stories with strong music.
As a side note, if you’re planning a full night out in Toronto—from theatre to a bit of self-care—one great local option I discovered is professional
laser hair removal in Toronto at Bright & Beauty Laser Clinic, which fits perfectly with the idea of treating yourself before or after a show.
