CHESS, the musical, is at Rozsa April 12-15

Chess, the musical, is at the Rozsa Wednesday through Saturday, April 12-15. (Poster courtesy Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts)

HOUGHTON -- Michigan Tech Theatre is proud to present the musical Chess at 7:30 p.m. from Wednesday, April 12, through Saturday, April 15, 2023, at the Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts. A beloved musical that has captivated audiences since its debut in 1986, Chess will captivate audiences with its unique blend of drama, music, and dance. Tickets, general admission seating, are available online or at the Rozsa Box Office: $20 for adults, $5 for youth under 18, and free for Michigan Tech Students with a valid student ID.

In this groundbreaking rock musical, the ancient game becomes a metaphor for romantic rivalries, competitive gamesmanship, super-power politics, and international intrigue.

"Set in the final stages of the Cold War...[the] international competition provides a window of opportunity for players to escape the oppressive regime of the U.S.S.R.," says Director
Trish Helsel. "The musical is an allegory where the players are 'pawns' in a political war between the U.S. and the U.S.S.R." Inset photo: Patricia Helsel (Photo courtesy Michigan Tech University)

The production features a book by Richard Nelson and lyrics by Tim Rice, and an incredible score by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, members of ABBA, and includes the hit songs, "One Night in Bangkok" and "Heaven Help My Heart."

Both entertaining and provocative, the show’s language and content are intended for mature audiences.

The cast and crew -- nearly 100 people from Michigan Tech and the Keweenaw community -- have been hard at work preparing for this production, and audiences can expect to be blown away by the set, costumes, and lighting designed to enhance the show's stunning visuals, driving music, and compelling story.

"The show is more relevant now when we can see the parallels between the Hungarian uprising of 1956 against the U.S.S.R. and the recent invasion of Ukraine by Russia," reflects Helsel.

Director Patricia Helsel is an Associate Professor of Theatre and head of Theatre and Electronic Media Performance at Michigan Tech. Patricia has a Master of Fine Arts degree in Acting and Directing from Minnesota State University - Mankato, and a B.A. degree in Theatre and Music, from Elmira College. Her professional work includes directing and performance (stage, radio, T.V.).

Tickets for the public are available now at mtu.edu/rozsa, 906-487-1906, or at the Rozsa Box Office from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Monday through Friday or for 1 hour before shows. Michigan
Tech Students can reserve free Experience Tech tickets online, and Student Rush will be available at the door.