The score is the argument: I Know Him So Well, Anthem, and the improbable pop anomaly of One Night in Bangkok, all written by the two men who wrote ABBA's catalog and arranged for voices that can fill a Broadway house without apology. The book has been rewritten more times than almost any musical in the repertoire, which is part of the sport of seeing a new production. If you like a score you can hear from the sidewalk, take this one.
What to expect
A sung-heavy production running roughly two and a half hours with intermission, staged around the geometry of a championship chess match. Expect belted showstoppers and a design that leans on projection and grid. The Imperial's orchestra is deep, so the rear mezzanine still hears everything.
Good to know
- The Imperial is on West 45th between Broadway and 8th — the A/C/E to 42nd St-Port Authority is the closest train
- Roughly two and a half hours including one intermission
- You do not need to know how chess works; the game is a frame, not a plot mechanic
- The score is loud and vocally enormous — sit further back if that is a lot for you
- Weeknight performances are the easiest to get into
- Cold War politics and adult relationships drive the story; fine for teens, not aimed at small children
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Common questions
Who wrote the music?
Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus of ABBA, with lyrics by Tim Rice — the same partnership behind the original 1984 concept album.
Is One Night in Bangkok in it?
Yes. It is the show's most famous number and remains a genuine chart hit that most people do not realize came from a musical.
Do I need to understand chess?
No. The match is a backdrop for a Cold War love triangle; no rules knowledge is required.
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