Power play and passion: The musical Chess conquers Stetten!

Power play and passion: The musical Chess conquers Stetten!

Stuttgart, June 9, 2025 - The musical “Chess”, the game about power and money, is causing a stir in Stetten auf den Fildern. The production promises a captivating mix of gripping action and impressive music. The focus is on the character of Anatoly Sergievsky, a Russian chess grandmaster who is dissatisfied with the political conditions in his homeland and strives for love and freedom in the West. Anatoly's story reflects the complex political tensions of the Cold War and prompts viewers to reflect on loyalty and identity. GEA reports that ...

In “Chess” a passionate love story develops between Anatoly and Florence, which intensifies the personal conflicts against the backdrop of geopolitical conflicts. Anatoly, also known as Tolya, is a main character who ties his fate not only to chess, but also to his pursuit of personal freedom. His life is shaped by the traumatic memories of the Soviet past and the Hungarian uprising, which affected his father as a mathematics professor at the University of Leningrad. These profound aspects are particularly evident in the dialogues between Anatoly and Florence, when he discusses his guilt over his country's actions towards Hungary. Additional information about Anatoly can be found on Chess the Musical.

The production in Stetten

The performance in Stetten auf den Filder brings the emotional tensions of the musical to life. With impressive stage design and talented actors, the complex interplay of power, money and the personal decisions of the characters is impressively staged. The challenge of depicting the profound conflicts between East and West while shedding light on the human side of the protagonists represents a central challenge for the director.

The musical background, which comes from the well-known composers Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, contributes significantly to the atmosphere of the production. Attraction and melancholy, hope and despair - all these emotions are enhanced by the musical's haunting melodies, creating a unique connection between the characters and the audience.

A look at Anatoly

Anatoly, whose patronymic varies depending on the version of the musical - from Valeriovich in the US tour to Evgenevich in the Russian version - shows the variety of interpretations the musical can take. The glimpse into Anatoly's childhood, where he was 12 when the Russians invaded Hungary, gives viewers a deeper understanding of the internal conflicts that guide his decisions. “Chess” not only offers entertainment, but also a reflection on the effects of living in politically charged times.

The entire production, which is presented in Stetten auf den Filder, is carried by a strong ensemble. It is an invitation to the audience to engage with questions that are still relevant today - questions about identity, home and the power of love in the midst of conflict. The portrayals of the characters and the music invite you to question your own beliefs and feelings and to have a dialogue about the complex relationship between people and society. Further details can be found on GEA.