Chess,Waterside Musical Society, Waterside Theatre, Romsey

A BRAVE decision to put on one of the lesser performed musicals is successfully borne out by this production of Chess.

Set in the Cold War period, the plot uses international chess players as pawns in the US/Russia espionage dealings.

Chris Wortley (Frederick) plays the arrogant American chess champion pitted against a relaxed Russian (David Putley) in the first act.

David Putley was in fine voice throughout.

Lisa Phillips (Florence) was the love interest and conveyed the extremes of emotion effectively.

Musical director Lesley Clayton is to be congratulated on the balance achieved between orchestra and singers and the fine choral work of the show.