Sydney Script Post for Mandy PART 1
This is the Chess Sydney script of Chess. Just Copy Pasta. Nothing to see unless you want the script.
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Chess
Music: Benny Andersson + Björn Ulvaeus
Lyrics: Tim Rice
Book: Tim Rice
Premiere: Wednesday, May 14, 1986
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CHESS A MUSICAL BY
BENNY ANDERSSON - TIM RICE - BJORN ULVAEUS
AUSTRALIAN PRODUCTION SCRIPT
© TIM RICE 1990
REVISED SCRIPT, FEBRUARY 1990
"CHESS"
CAST
THE ARBITER International Chess Federation
FREDDIE TRUMPER American Chess Champion
ANATOLY SERGIEVSKY Soviet Chess Champion
FLORENCE VASSY Anglo/American, born Czech
SVETLANA SERGIEVSKA Married to Anatoly
WALTER de COURCEY American Official
2 EMBASSY OFFICIALS British Diplomats
VOCAL ENSEMBLE (20)
DANCE ENSEMBLE (8)
CHILDREN (2)
ORCHESTRA
STRING QUARTET (2 VIOLINS, VIOLA, CELLO)
FLUTE/PICCOLO/TENOR SAX
OBOE/COR ANGLAIS
CLARINET/ALTO SAX/BARITONE SAX/BASS CLARINET
FRENCH HORN
1ST TRUMPET
2ND TRUMPET
TENOR TROMBONE/BASS TROMBONE
KAT/PERCUSSION
ELECTRIC GUITAR
ELECTRIC BASS
DRUMS
ACCOUSTIC GRAND PIANO/KORG M1
ELECTRONIC KEYBOARD (KORG M1)
Yje Australian Production of CHESS
premiered at the Theatre Royal, Sydney
on the 3rd of February, 1990
THEATRE ROYAL-MLC CENTRE, KING STREET, SYDNEY, 2000
TEL: 224 8444 FAX: 223-3994
"CHESS"
This is the script for the Australian production of CHESS - Tim Rice's full text (book &
lyrics). While it includes some stage directions specific to this production, they have
been kept to a minimum.
Some points about the characters:
It is important to understand the equation between the two Chess-players. At the
beginning FREDDIE is the brash, passionate, single-minded Champion. ANATOLY is a
more reasonable and sophisticated player. By the end, though not so neatly, their roles
have reversed.
FLORENCE, who is the emotional centre of the drama, begins by announcing herself as
"a citizen of the world," but will find that freedom has a price and history a pivotal role
in people's lives. Her conflict between emotional allegiance and personal liberty, locates
the central theme of CHESS.
The loyal SVETLANA finds her sense of security under siege and departs a worldlier
figure.
Of Course, BANGKOK is the perfect city to play host and catalyst to these emotional
upheavals.
Representing the International Chess Federation, THE ARBITER views all these antics
with a wry, almost spiritual detachment, until they start to intrude on his world - the
world of CHESS.
WALTER and MOLOKOV, behind their entertaining masks of conviviality, are practised
opportunists. They believe passionately in their differing systems and genuinely regard
the game as more important that its players.
The HOTEL GUESTS, TOURISTS, CITIZENS, etc. represent the vox populi, as they
might in a Greek tragedy.
CHESS is virtually unique among modern musicals, in being neither nostalgic nor a
period costume drama. It extends the tradition of the popular, romantic musical by
turning its clear gaze on the world around us. The entire show also perfectly illustrates
Dorothy Parker's legendary Hollywood maxim: "It may come as a surprise to you, Mr.
Goldwyn, but noone's life has a happy ending."
Jim Sharman [director]
Sydney, 1990
The Australian production of CHESS is set
in and around an international hotel in the
city of Bangkok at a time when the cold war
years were giving way to a new age of openness
ACT ONE
Scene One: THE CHESSBOARD
PRELUDE ("You and I" theme). The curtain rises to reveal a gauze cloth depicting The
Emerald Buddha. As the drums introduce the "BANGKOK" theme, silhouettes are
glimpsed through the cloth. The gauze flies out to reveal the soaring atrium of an
internation hotel in Bangkok. Glittering guests and hotel staff are gathered for a Thai
Dance performance, illustrating the origins of the game of Chess. Two warriors battle
on a chessboard stage, around a globe of the world. The battle intensifies to a struggle
for global supremacy climaxing in an explosion. From the smoke, a figure emerges. It is
the ARBITER, dressed as a contemporary nightclub compere. With the assembled
guests and staff, he sings:
THE STORY OF CHESS
ARBITER/GUESTS/STAFF
Each game of chess means there's one less
Variation left to be played
Each day got through means one or two
Less mistakes remain to be made
(The following fable is delicately illustrated by a series of mythical tableaux - the brothers
fighting, the mother weeping, etc.)
ARBITER
Not much is known
Of early days of chess beyond a fairly vague report
That fifteen hundred years ago two princes fought
Though brothers, for a Hindu throne
Their mother cried
For no-one really likes their offspring
fighting to the death
She begged them stop the slaughter
with her every breath
But sure enough one brother died
ARBITER/GUESTS/STAFF
Sad beyond belief
She told her winning son
You have caused such grief
I can't forgive this evil thing you've done
He tried to explain
How things had really been
But he tried in vain
No words of his could mollify the queen
ARBITER
And so he asked the wisest men he knew
The way to lessen her distress
They told him he'd be pretty certain to impress
By using model soldiers on
A chequered board to show it was his brother's
fault
They thus invented ...
(The Two Small Children are revealed, concentrating intently on a game of chess.)
ALL
(mysteriously)
... chess
(The Arbiter formally bows)
Scene transition:
Scene Two: THE ARRIVAL
Guests disperse. Atrium elevators descend. Fanfare. The ARBITER snaps us into the
present with the following announcement:
ARBITER
Our game plan commences with the arrival of two chess warriors at the International
Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand.
From PS elevator step FREDDIE/FLORENCE/WALTER. From OP elevator,
ANATOLY/SVETLANA/MOLOKOV.Bangkok music. "Welcome" banner. The
Arbiter steps into the action at a bank of press microphones:
ARBITER
(very formal)
On behalf of the king and the people of Thailand, and the International Chess Federation,
I am proud to welcome you to the ancient culture of Thailand and the magnificent city of
Bangkok, the world's two greatest players of the ancient and magnificent game of chess.
Frederick Trumper of the United States, the world champion. And the new challenger
for his title, champion of the Soviet Union, Anatoly Sergievsky.
FREDDIE
(to Anatoly)
Mr. Sergievsky, may I present my second, Miss Florence Vassy.
ANATOLY
My pleasure, Miss Vassy.
(he kisses her hand. They exchange smiles)
FLORENCE
Mr. Sergievsky. May I present Mr. Walter de Courcey, the member of our delegation
responsible for the commercial aspects of this enterprise -
WALTER
A necessary evil, I'm afraid, Mr. Sergievsky, when there is so much media attention -
ANATOLY
(dismissively)
Yes, of course.
(turns to Florence)
Miss Vassy, I'm delighted the days of chess being an all-male preserve are over.
(Florence smiles, Molokov intervenes)
MOLOKOV
I am Mr. Sergievsky's second, Miss Vassy.
FLORENCE
Mr. Molokov - I know you by reputation.
MOLOKOV
And we know you, Miss Vassy.
FLORENCE
Thank you.
MOLOKOV
Yes we take a great interest in Czechoslovak citizens who have made a success of life in
the West -
FLORENCE
Oh, I'm a citizen of the world, now, Mr. Molokov.
MOLOKOV
(to Freddie)
Mr. Trumper.
(to Walter)
We have no equivalent delegate with your particular talents, Mr. de Courcey - whatever
they may be.
WALTER
Mr. Molokov -
MOLOKOV
Our champion is , however, blessed with the support of his wife. Mr. Trumper, Miss
Vassy, Mr. de Courcey - Svetlana Sergievska.
FLORENCE crosses to SVETLANA.
FLORENCE
Have you traveled abroad with your husband before, Mrs. Sergievsky?
SVETLANA
Nyet. I'm looking forward to discovering your sophisticated world, Miss Vassy.
(They each step down in turn to sing, though still addressing their respective opposite
numbers)
FLORENCE
(to Svetlana)
WHEN YOU MAKE GOOD IN ANY CALLING (MUSIC: ENDGAME/
SUDDENLY HALF THE WORLD IS FALLING MODEL OF DECORUM)
OVER ITSELF TO BE YOUR FRIEND.
SVETLANA
THAT'S OKAY BY ME.
ANATOLY
(to Freddie)
"TOUGH AT THE TOP," IS THAT THE CLICHE?
I HAVE TO LEARN AS NOUVEAU RICHE -
FREDDIE
- A
NEW KID IN TOWN. YOU MIGHT NOT LIKE
WHAT YOU WANT TO BE.
MOLOKOV & WALTER
A JOB TO DO WELL, AN EMPTY CANVAS
A GAME THAT'S MORE IMPORTANT THAN ITS PLAYERS.
ALL
(except Arbiter)
THE UNBRIDLED JOY
ANTICIPATING ALL THE
COMPLICATIONS OF A SIMPLE BOARD GAME
FLORENCE & SVETLANA ANATOLY/FREDDIE/
MOLOKOV/WALTER
ALL THE COMPLICATIONS
OF A SIMPLE BOARD GAME ALL THE
THE MANY COMPLICATIONS COMPLICATIONS
OF A SIMPLE BOARD GAME. OF A SIMPLE BOARD GAME.
Svetlana departs with Molokov and Florence with Walter.
ARBITER
(to audience)
For kings of chess to be at their best, it's important for them to assimilate the local
atmosphere - thus, we see the world champion and his challenger head downtown.
Scene Three: THE CITY
Freddie and Anatoly plus Tourists and Citizens. The reaction of each player to the
blandishments of the Tourists and Citizens illustrates some basic differences in their
personalities - Anatoly much more polite in refusing.
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK
FREDDIE
BANGKOK! ORIENTAL SETTING
AND THE CITY DON'T KNOW WHAT THE CITY IS GETTING
THE CREME DE LA CREME OF THE CHESS WORLD IN A
SHOW WITH EVERYTHING BUT YUL BRYNNER.
(Monks with shopping bags hurry by)
ANATOLY
BANGKOK! JUST ANOTHER STOP IN
THE CHESS WORLD CIRCUS - MASTERS DROP IN,
PLAY, CHECKMATE, CHECK OUT AND THEN YOU
MOVE ON TO ANOTHER VENUE.
LIKE REYKJAVIK -
FREDDIE
OR THE PHILIPPINES -
ANATOLY
OR MOSCOW -
BOTH
OR ... THIS PLACE!
(Crowd of tourists appear with tour guide)
TOURISTS
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK AND THE WORLD'S YOUR OYSTER
THE BARS ARE TEMPLES BUT THE PEARLS AIN'T FREE
YOU'LL FIND A GOD IN EVERY GOLDEN CLOISTER
AND IF YOU'RE LUCKY THEN THE GOD'S A SHE
I CAN FEEL AN ANGEL SLIDING UP TO ME
ANATOLY
ONE TOWN'S VERY LIKE ANOTHER
FREDDIE
WHEN YOUR HEAD'S DOWN OVER YOUR PIECES, BROTHER
(A tout accosts Freddie)
TOUT #1
IT'S A DRAG -
TOUT #2
IT'S A BORE -
TOUTS
IT'S REALLY SUCH A PITY
TO BE LOOKING AT THE BOARD, NOT LOOKING AT THE CITY
FREDDIE
WHADDAYA MEAN? YOU'VE SEEN ONE CROWDED, POLLUTED, STINKING
TOWN, YOU'VE SEEN 'EM ALL!
BAR-MADAM
(as her Bar-girls solicit Freddie's attention)
TEA, GIRLS, WARM, SWEET
SOME ARE SET UP IN THE SOMERSET MAUGHAM SUITE.
FREDDIE
GET THAI'D! I AIN'T A TOURIST
MY EVERY MOVE'S AMONG THE PUREST.
(at a clap from the Madam, the girls transfer their attentions to Anatoly)
ANATOLY
I GET MY KICKS ABOVE THE WAISTLINE, COMRADES!
(Another tour group appears)
ALL
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK MAKES A HARD MAN HUMBLE
NOT MUCH BETWEEN DESPAIR AND ECSTASY
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK AND THE TOUGH GUYS TUMBLE
CAN'T BE TOO CAREFUL WITH YOUR COMPANY
I CAN FEEL THE DEVIL WALKING NEXT TO ME.
(Buddhist shrine revealed. Monks attend with garlands - photographed by tourists)
ANATOLY
BANGKOK! ORIENTAL LEAVEN
OF THE BEST OF HELL AND THE WORST OF HEAVEN
A WINNING SMILE - A FALSE IMPRESSION
A RUSH OF BLOOD - AN INDISCRETION.
BANGKOK! THE LIGHTS CONCEALING
SILKY THIEVES OF REASON, STEALING
OUT BEFORE ITS VICTIM'S WAKEN
THIS IS HOW THE WEST WAS TAKEN.
ALL
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK MAKES A HARD MAN HUMBLE
NOT MUCH BETWEEN DESPAIR AND ECSTASY
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK AND THE TOUGH GUYS TUMBLE
CAN'T BE TOO CAREFUL WITH YOUR COMPANY
I CAN FEEL THE DEVIL WALKING NEXT TO ME.
FREDDIE
SIAM'S GONNA BE THE WITNESS
TO THE ULTIMATE TEST IN CEREBRAL FITNESS
THIS GRIPS ME MORE THAN WOULD A
MUDDY OLD RIVER OR RECLINING BUDDAH.
(to Anatoly)
I DON'T SEE THESE GUYS RATING
THE KIND OF MATE WE'RE CONTEMPLATING
WE'D LET 'EM WATCH, WE WOULD INVITE 'EM
BUT THE QUEENS WE USE WOULD NOT EXCITE 'EM
So they'd better go back to their bars, their temples, their massage parlors....
(Shrine transforms into nightclub with Bar-girls, Go-Go dancers, drunken tourists, etc.)
ALL
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK AND THE WORLD'S YOUR OYSTER
THE BARS ARE TEMPLES BUT THE PEARLS AIN'T FREE
YOU'LL FIND A GOD IN EVERY GOLDEN CLOISTER
A LITTLE FLESH, A LITTLE HISTORY
I CAN FEEL AN ANGEL SLIDING UP TO ME.
(Dance break)
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK MAKES A HARD MAN HUMBLE
NOT MUCH BETWEEN DESPAIR AND ECSTASY
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK AND THE TOUGH GUYS TUMBLE
CAN'T BE TOO CAREFUL WITH YOUR COMPANY
I CAN FEEL THE DEVIL WALKING NEXT TO ME.
Scene Four: THE TOURNAMENT
TOURNAMENT SONG
CHILDREN
IN A WORLD OF CHANGING VALUES, SHIFTING VIEWS
WHERE ALL WE WIN - WE WIN TO LOSE
WHAT A JOY TO BE AROUND EVENTS LIKE THIS -
CONSTANT, CERTAIN, CALM, A WORLD OF ORDERED BLISS.
(brief formal dance)
WE ARE ONE BIG HAPPY FAMILY, BLACK AND WHITE
THE GAME OUR ONE TRUE GUIDING LIGHT
SWEEPING THROUGH THE DARKEST CORNERS TO EXPRESS
COUNTRIES, CLASSES, CREEDS AS ONE IN LOVE OF CHESS.
(Tournament area is revealed as observers and U.S./U.S.S.R. delegates assemble. Also
hotel staff, the Arbiter and his assistants.)
U.S. v U.S.S.R.
OBSERVERS
NO ONE CAN DENY THESE ARE ENCOURAGING TIMES
THESE ARE OPTIMISTIC AND ENCOURAGING TIMES
(Florence and Molokov approach each other warily.)
MOLOKOV
Miss Vassy -
FLORENCE
Mr. Molokov -
DELEGATES
(led by Walter and Molokov but Florence's top position should be clear. However she
should not be involved in the more bitchy lines. She and Molokov prepare their
objections for the Arbiter)
IT'S THE US VERSUS USSR
YET WE MORE OR LESS ARE -
OBSERVERS
NO ONE CAN DENY THESE ARE ENCOURAGING TIMES
DELEGATES
- TO OUR CREDIT PUTTING ALL THAT ASIDE
WE HAVE SWALLOWED OUR PRIDE
OBSERVERS
THESE ARE OPTIMISTIC AND ENCOURAGING TIMES
MOLOKOV
IT REALLY DOESN'T MATTER WHO COMES OUT ON TOP
DELEGATES
WHO GETS THE CHOP
MOLOKOV
THOUGH IT COULD MEAN FOREIGN TRAVEL HAS TO STOP
DELEGATES
BUT WE'RE GONNA SMASH THEIR BASTARD!
MAKE HIM WANNA CHANGE HIS NAME
TAKE HIM TO THE CLEANERS AND DEVASTATE HIM
WIPE HIM OUT HUMILIATE HIM
WE DON'T WANT THE WHOLE WORLD SAYING
THEY CAN'T EVEN WIN A GAME
WE HAVE NEVER RECKONED
ON COMING SECOND
THERE'S NO USE IN LOSING.
ARBITER
(entering)
Delegates! Mr. Molokov, Mr. de Courcey...and Miss Vassy. As you can see, the arena
has been prepared for the competition, exactly in accordance with the specifications laid
down in the match contracts; we are now ready to consider last-minute pre-match
applications, representations or objections.
FLORENCE
The American delegation wishes to protest the size of the Soviet delegation which far
exceeds the permitted number -
MOLOKOV
Our delegation consists of only three people; our tactician, myself, of course, and our
champion. His doctor, psychologist, PT expert, security agents and chef cannot be
considered delegates!
ARBITER
Objection overruled.
MOLOKOV
The Soviet delegation has reasons [sic] to believe that the American player's chair
contains communications devices, and therefore objects to the constitution of that chair -
FLORENCE
That's impossible! Both chairs were made in
(she examines them)
Sweden - therefore, they are neutral chairs.
ARBITER
Objection overruled.
FLORENCE
The American delegation wishes to object to the fact that each player is only allowed one
rest day per -
MOLOKOV
Oh! So you will be needing plenty of rest, eh? Heh-heh -
(the Soviet delegation joins in the laughter)
ARBITER
Objection overruled.
MOLOKOV
The Soviet delegation objects to the wearing of reflective dark glasses -
ARBITER
Objection overruled.
(Florence and her delegation whip our dark glasses in revenge for Molokov's rest day
jibe)
FLORENCE/MOLOKOV (together)
The American/Soviet delegation -
ARBITER
Objection overruled! I do not feel we're making meaningful progress. I'll entertain no
further proposals or objections. This is a great sporting occasion between
representatives of two great nations. Let us grace this event with the decorum it
deserves -
WALTER
Just one last point, Mr. Arbiter : -
(The Arbiter stares at Walter but says nothing)
I heartily concur with every sentiment of those stirring words, Mr. Arbiter. But may I
just make an application on behalf of the television and other companies making such a
major financial contribution to this event, that your permission be given to a few
commercial supporters of chess to set up a discreet display of wares in the arena -
FLORENCE/MOLOKOV
(together)
Objection!
ARBITER
Mr. de Courcey! I see no reason why such an imaginative proposal should not be
pursued. Take this card, call the number after ten tomorrow.
FLORENCE/MOLOKOV
(together)
Objection!
ARBITER
(extremely quickly)
Overruled!
DELEGATES
IT'S THE RED FLAG UP AGAINST STARS AND STRIPES
BUT WE'RE PEACE-LOVING TYPES
OBSERVERS
NO ONE CAN DENY THESE ARE ENCOURAGING TIMES
WALTER
IT'S A SWEET HAIL-FELLOW-WELL-MET AFFAIR
FOR BOTH EAGLE AND BEAR.
OBSERVERS
THESE ARE OPTIMISTIC AND ENCOURAGING TIMES.
MOLOKOV
TO THOSE WHO SAY THAT THIS IS NOT A FRIENDLY CLASH
DELEGATES
DON'T BE SO RASH!
MOLOKOV
I ASSURE YOU COMRADES THAT IS BALDERDASH
AMERICANS
WHAT A LOAD OF WHINGEING PEASANTS!
THINKING THEY CAN WIN - THEY CAN'T!
WHAT AN EXHIBITION OF SELF-DELUSION
THIS ONE'S A FOREGONE CONCLUSION
WE DON'T WANT THE WHOLE WORLD SAYING
THEY CAN'T EVEN WIN A GAME
WE HAVE NEVER RECKONED
ON COMING SECOND
THERE'S NO USE IN LOSING
WALTER/MOLOKOV
HOW GOOD TO FEEL THAT AS THIS GREAT EVENT BEGINS
IT UNDERPINS
OUR QUEST FOR PEACE, THE BONDS OF COMMON INTEREST
OF EAST AND WEST
AMERICANS
AS LONG AS OUR MAN WINS.
RUSSIANS
AS LONG AS OUR MAN -
ALL
--WINS!!
The champions enter and shake hands warily before the Arbiter lays down the law with:)
THE ARBITER'S SONG
ARBITER
I'VE A DUTY AS THE REFEREE
AT THE START OF THE MATCH
ON BEHALF OF ALL OUR SPONSORS
I MUST WELCOME YOU
WHICH I DO - THERE'S A CATCH.
I DON'T CARE IF YOU'RE A CHAMPION
NO ONE MESSES WITH ME
I AM RUTHLESS IN UPHOLDING
WHAT I KNOW IS RIGHT
BLACK OR WHITE - AS YOU'LL SEE
ARBITER DELEGATES/OBSERVERS
I'M ON THE CASE HE'S ON THE CASE
CAN'T BE FOOLED CAN'T BE FOOLED
ANY OBJECTION ANY OBJECTION
IS OVERRULED IS OVERRULED
YES HE'S THE ARBITER AND HE KNOWS BEST
HE'S IMPARTIAL
DON'T PUSH HIM
HE'S UNIMPRESSED
ARBITER
YOU GOT YOUR TRICKS?
GOOD FOR YOU!
BUT THERE'S NO GAMBIT
I DON'T SEE THROUGH
ARBITER DELEGATES/OBSERVERS
(spoken) HE'S THE ARBITER
I know the score HE KNOWS THE SCORE
From square one FROM SQUARE ONE
I'll be watching all - 64! HE'LL BE WATCHING ALL - 64!
(Dance break)
ARBITER
(to players)
IF YOU'RE THINKING OF THE KIND OF THING
THAT WE'VE SEEN IN THE PAST
CHANTING GURUS, WALKIE-TALKIES,
WALKOUTS, HYPNOTISTS,
TEMPERS, FISTS - NOT SO FAST
(then to Walter and Molokov)
THIS IS NOT THE START OF WORLD WAR THREE
NO POLITICAL PLOYS
I THINK BOTH YOUR CONSTITUTIONS ARE TERRIFIC SO
NOW YOU KNOW - BE GOOD BOYS
ARBITER DELEGATES/OBSERVERS
I'M ON THE CASE HE'S ON THE CASE
CAN'T BE FOOLED CAN'T BE FOOLED
ANY OBJECTION ANY OBJECTION
IS OVERRULED IS OVERRULED
HE'S THE ARBITER AND HE KNOWS BEST
HE'S IMPARTIAL
DON'T PUSH HIM
HE'S UNIMPRESSED
ARBITER
YOU GOT YOUR TRICKS?
GOOD FOR YOU!
BUT THERE'S NO GAMBIT
I DON'T SEE THROUGH
ARBITER DELEGATES/OBSERVERS
OH I'M THE ARBITER HE'S THE ARBITER
I KNOW THE SCORE HE KNOWS THE SCORE
FROM SQUARE ONE FROM SQUARE ONE
I'LL BE WATCHING ALL - HE'LL BE WATCHING ALL
ARBITER/DELEGATES/OBSERVERS
- SIXTY-FOUR!
(Freddie and Anatoly are now in position. Fanfare. The Arbiter stars the clock for play
to begin. The CHESS instrumental music begins and it appears that decorum and sanity
are now the order of the day. Freddie plays a confident opening sequence. However,
the focus shifts from the players as Walter ushers on a party of Merchandisers and
sponsors' logo-emblazoned banners unfurl from above)
MERCHANDISERS' SONG
MERCHANDISERS
WHETHER YOU ARE PRO OR ANTI
OR COULD NOT CARE LESS
WE ARE HERE TO TELL YOU
WE ARE HERE TO SELL YOU CHESS
NOT A CHANCE OF YOU ESCAPING FROM OUR WILES
WE'VE LOCKED THE DOORS, WE'VE BLOCKED THE AISLES
WE'VE A FRANCHISE WORTH EXPLOITING
AND WE WILL - YES WE WILL!
WHEN IT COMES TO MERCHANDISING
WE COULD KILL.
(We leave this high-kicking distraction briefly to rejoin the game of chess just as Anatoly
resigns. The Arbiter gives a match update.)
ARBITER
Mr. Trumper has won the first game. Mr. Sergievsky will play white in the second
game, starting tomorrow.
MERCHANDISERS
WE'VE DONE ALL OUR MARKET RESEARCH
AND OUR FINDINGS SHOW
THAT THIS GAME OF CHESS COULD BE AROUND
A MONTH OR SO
MAYBE IT'S A BIT CONFUSING
FOR A GAME
BUT RUBIK'S CUBES WERE MUCH THE SAME
IN THE END THE WHOLE WORLD BOUGHT ONE
- SIGHT UNSEEN
WE WILL DO THE SAME WITH BISHOP
ROOK AND QUEEN.
ARBITER
(This time Freddie is handing the Arbiter an envelope)
The second game is ajourned. Play will resume with Mr. Trumper's sealed move
tomorrow.
MERCHANDISERS
WHEN YOU GET UP -
WHEN YOU GET UP IN THE MORNING
TILL YOU GO TO BED
YOU WILL FIND OUR FRIENDLY MESSAGE
ROLLING 'ROUND YOUR HEAD.
CLEAN YOUR TEETH WITH CHEQUERED TOOTHPASTE
WEAR OUR VESTS
OUR KINGS AND QUEENS ON BOUNCING BREASTS
YOU COULD EVEN BUY A SET
AND LEARN TO PLAY
WE DON'T MIND WE'LL SELL YOU SOMETHING ANYWAY!
WE'LL SELL YOU SOMETHING ANYWAY!
(At the conclusion of the Merchandisers song we return to the apparent calm of the
match but notice that physical tension is building. A Soviet delegate (the Chef) is
presenting Amatoly a cup of yogurt and a napkin. Freddie stares in incredulity. As
Anatoly begins to eat, Freddie's patience fails)
FREDDIE
Hold it! Stop the clock!
(He bangs down the timer on top of the clock)
(Anatoly looks bewildered, holding his spoon a few inches from his mouth)
FREDDIE
What is that?
ANATOLY
What is what?
FREDDIE
(points)
That.
ANATOLY
This is yogurt. Would you like some?
MOLOKOV
We are entitled under the match rules to provide our player with refreshments -
FREDDIE
(jumping to his feet)
You are not entitled to assist your player by delivering him messages -
MOLOKOV
Messages?
ANATOLY
(in Russian to Molokov)
What is he doing?
[phonetically: Shtoe on dzyeh-lai-yet]
FREDDIE
I'm not stupid! I've been watching. Yesterday, 20th move, strawberry; 35th move,
honey. Today, 20th move, banana. Each time just before he changes tack. You're
giving him signals! Strawberry means do this, banana means do that - it's cheating!
MOLOKOV
This is absolutely insane! You are deliberately attempting to sabotage this game because
you are losing -
FREDDIE
(to the Arbiter, who has been maintaining a calm objectivity)
Are you gonna do anything about this?
ARBITER
Mr. Trumper, you are dangerously close to being penalized -
FREDDIE
C'mon you said you were on the case -
(awkward pause)
or are you in on this too?
FLORENCE
Freddie -
FREDDIE
You tell him, Florence!
MOLOKOV
(thumping table as Florence tries to calm Freddie)
I tell him! Unless this ridiculous interruption is penalized -
FREDDIE
(shouting them both down)
Mr. Arbiter! Florence! Take note that unless I receive a full and formal written apology
from the Soviets for their player's unsportsmanlike behavior, and dishonest behavior, I
shall be on the next plane out of this dump and will be taking legal action to have this
match awarded to me by default!
(he turns on several Press Photographers who have rushed in at the end of this outburst
and chases them out, yelling:)
Beat it you jerk-off!
ANATOLY
(in Russian to Molokov)
Keep calm! Let me handle this!
[phonetically: Spakoina! Ya sam raz-byeh-rooss]
(then in English to the Arbiter as the stage is cleared)
So what happens now? You will of course disqualify him -
FLORENCE
For God's sake! This is a matter that can be resolved by rational discussion -
ANATOLY/MOLOKOV
Rational discussion!
(The delegates and observers leave. The chessboard is again indicated as the Quartet
undertake their negotiations. An almost ritual flirtation develops between Florence and
Anatoly)
QUARTET: DECORUM & TRANQUILITY
MOLOKOV
(to Arbiter)
WE WISH, NO MUST, MAKE OUR DISGUST
FOR THIS ABUSE PERFECTLY CLEAR
WE'RE HERE FOR CHESS - ARE THE US?
IF SO WHY FOUL THE ATMOSPHERE?
FLORENCE
I MUST PROTEST - OUR DELEGATION
HAS A HOST OF VALID POINTS TO RAISE
ARBITER
IT'S NOT JUST BLACK AND WHITE
IF I MAY COIN A PHRASE
AS ANY NEUTRAL WOULD ATTEST
FLORENCE
THOUGH WE CONCEDE
(She now sings to Anatoly)
THE FACT YOUR MASTERS BEND THE RULES IS MAYBE NOT YOUR FAULT
IF THEY WITHDRAW THEIR PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSAULT
THEN UNDER PROTEST HE'LL PROCEED.
MOLOKOV
IF YOUR MAN'S SO SWEET
THEN WHY HIS FIGHTING TALK?
IF HE SAYS WE CHEAT
THEN WHY ON EARTH DID HE GO TAKE A WALK?
FLORENCE
I AM NOT SURPRISED HE WANTED FRESHER AIR
ONCE HE REALIZED THERE WAS NO HOPE
OF YOUR GUYS PLAYING FAIR.
FLORENCE/ANATOLY MOLOKOV/ARBITER
HOW SAD IT'S VERY SAD TO SEE
THE ANCIENT AND
TO SEE DISTINGUISHED GAME
THAT USED TO BE
ALL
A MODEL OF DECORUM AND TRANQUILITY
BECOME LIKE ANY OTHER SPORT
A BATTLEGROUND FOR RIVAL IDEOLOGIES
TO SLUG IT OUT WITH GLEE
ANATOLY
(attacking)
I WOULD SAY WITH REGARD TO
HIM IT IS HARD TO
DISPEL
EVER GROWING SUSPICIONS
MY OPPOSITION'S
NOT WELL.
FLORENCE
(defending)
I WOULD HAVE SAID
YOU'D UNDERSTAND THE STRAIN
AND PRESSURE GETTING WHERE HE'S GOT
OR THAT YOU'D SIMPLY CALL HIM HIGHLY-STRUNG AND NOT
IMPLY THAT HE WAS OFF HIS HEAD.
ANATOLY
(flirting)
BUT HOW ON EARTH
CAN SOMEONE HALF AS NICE AND CIVILIZED AS YOU
BE PART OF SUCH A SELF-DESTRUCTIVE POINT OF VIEW
I HOPE HE PAYS YOU WHAT YOU'RE WORTH.
ARBITER
(attacking)
I CALL THIS TUNE
NO ONE'S IMMUNE TO MY POWER
ONCE IN THAT HALL.
MOLOKOV
(blocking)
IN THAT CASE
I MUST ASK YOU
WHY YOU NOW
PRESIDE OVER A BRAWL.
FLORENCE
(to Anatoly)
I'M NOT GETTING RICH
MY ONLY INTEREST
IS IN SOMETHING WHICH
GIVES ME THE CHANCE
OF WORKING WITH THE BEST.
ANATOLY
(to Florence)
I CAN ONLY SAY
I HOPE YOUR DREAM COMES TRUE
TILL THAT FAR OFF DAY
I HOPE YOU COPE
WITH HELPING NUMBER TWO.
FLORENCE/ANATOLY MOLOKOV/ARBITER
HOW SAD IT'S VERY SAD TO SEE
THE ANCIENT AND
TO SEE DISTINGUISHED GAME
THAT USED TO BE
ALL
A MODEL OF DECORUM AND TRANQUILITY
BECOME LIKE ANY OTHER SPORT
A BATTLEGROUND FOR RIVAL IDEOLOGIES
TO SLUG IT OUT WITH GLEE.
(Tempers by now are rising to a pitch)
FLORENCE ARBITER ANATOLY MOLOKOV
IT IS VERY SAD TO IT'S SO SAD TO SAD HOW SAD
SEE SEE A GAME THAT IT IS VERY SAD TO TO SEE
SAD TO SEE A REALLY SHOULD SEE A DIS-
GAME THAT ONCE BE THIS DISTING- TINGUISHED
USED TO GUISHED AND
BE A MODEL LIKE A MODEL OLD GAME THAT GAME THAT
OF DE-
OF CALM AND TRAN- CORUM USED TO, THAT ALWAYS
QUILITY BECOME USED TO BE TRAN- USED TO BE
SAD WHEN IT BE- JUST LIKE ANY QUILITY LIKE A
OTHER
COMES LIKE SPORT A BATTLE- HAS BECOME MODEL
ANY GROUND FOR
OTHER SPORT RIVAL IDE- BATTLEGROUND TO OF DE-
JUST OLOGIES SLUG IT OUT CORUM
A BATTLE- TO SLUG WITH GLEE
GROUND, A BATTLE- SLUG IT OUT ANY OTHER SPORT AND OF
GROUND, FOR IDE- SLUG IT OUT LIKE A BATTLE- PURE TRAN-
GROUND
OLOGIES IT IS VERY SAD TO SEE QUILITY
IT'S VERY SAD SAD SO SAD HOW IT IS VERY
TO SEE THE TO SEE SAD SAD TO SEETHE
ANCIENT AND DIS- OLD DISTIN-
TINGUISHED IT'S A GUISHED
GAME THAT GAME THAT
USED TO BE A BATTLEGROUND FOR SEE A USED TO BE A
MODEL OF DECORUM RIVAL IDE- MODEL OF DECORUM MODELOF
TRAN-
AND TRANQUIL- OLOGIES AND TRANQUIL- QUILITY
ITY BE- ITY BE
COMES LIKE ANY IT BECOMES JUST LIKE ANY WHEN IT BE-
OTHER A OTHER
SPORT BATTLEGROUND FOR SPORT HOW SAD COMES
ABATTLE
LIKE A IDEOLOGIES TO SEE GROUND THENIT
BATTLEGROUND A BATTLE- HOW THE GAME IS VE-
FOR RIVAL GROUND THAT RY
IDEOLOGIES IT'S VERY SAD USED TO BE SAD,IT'S VERY
SAD
IT'S VERY SAD TO SEE A GAME TRANWUILITY WHEN THIS
ANCIENT GAME
BE-
SO SAD TO SEE A BATTLEGROUND A BATTLEGROUND COMES A
BATTLEGROUND
ALL
TO SLUG IT OUT WITH GLEE
ARBITER
This crisis is the fault of both parties. If both players are not back at the board within 36
hours, the match will be cancelled and the title put into abeyance!
(disgruntled delegates depart)
TOURNAMENT SONG - reprise (Optional)
THE TWO CHILDREN
DON'T YOU FIND IT RATHER TOUCHING TO BEHOLD
THE GAME THAT CAME IN FROM THE COLD
SEEN FOR WHAT IT IS, RELIGION PLUS FINESSE
COUNTRIES, CLASSES, CREEDS AS ONE, IN LOVE OF CHESS
ARGUMENT 1
ARBITER
ISN'T IT STRANGE THE COMPLICATIONS
PEOPLE CREATE IN SITUATIONS
WHEN THERE'S NO NEED FOR ANY KIND OF
IMBROGLIO
BUT IN THE END THEY ALL SEE REASON
I DIDN'T WANT TO PUT THE SQUEEZE ON
BUT THERE ARE TIMES WHEN SOMEONE FORCEFUL
HAS TO SAY NO
(to the Children)
They all think they're part of some sophisticated international battle of wills and
personality
I SEE NOTHING OTHER THAN A SIMPLE BOARD GAME...
(exit the Arbiter with Children)
Scene Five: The American Suite
(Freddie is calmly playing computer chess as Florence storms in. Hotel maids discreetly
tidy the room and the bed.)
ARGUMENT 2
FLORENCE
YOU WANT TO LOSE YOUR ONLY FRIEND?
WELL, KEEP IT UP YOU'RE DOING FINE
WHY THIS HUMILIATION?
WHY TREAT ME LIKE A FOOL?
I'VE TAKEN SHIT FOR MONTHS, FOR YEARS
AND I WON'T TAKE IT ANYMORE!
(Florence dismissed the maids. Freddie plays on regardless)
HOW MANY WOMEN WOULD DRIVE THEMSELVES CRAZY
BY ARGUING OVER A GAME OF CHESS?
NOT VERY MANY BUT THE WAY THINGS ARE GOING
THERE'LL SOON BE ONE LESS!
FREDDIE
DON'T BELIEVE YOU, SWEETIE PIE -
FLORENCE
LISTEN, FREDDIE, I TOO HAD AMBITIONS.
HOW DID I GET WAYLAID?
HOW CAN SUCH A FLOWER
A SENSITIVE SOUL, A DELICATE CHILD
WIND UP AS A NURSEMAID, RESPECTABLY SET
FOR THE GLITTERING PRIZES?
INSTEAD OF WHICH I LANDED YOU -
FREDDIE
YOU'LL GET YOUR PRIZES!
I'M NINETY PERCENT OF THE WAY TO THE TOP OF THE HEAP
FLORENCE
THANKS - 10% - YOU GOT ME CHEAP
FREDDIE
(speaking)
No, no Florence. I meant we are ninety percent of the way.
FLORENCE
HOW MANY WOMEN - ARTICULATE WOMEN
WITH SOMETHING TO SHOUT ABOUT - SPEND THEIR TIME
PLAYING A GAME IN WHICH SILENCE IS GOLDEN
AND SPEAKING A CRIME?
FREDDIE
MAYBE IF HE MOVED HIS KING...?
FLORENCE
ALL OF MY STRUGGLES FOR QUALIFICATION -
MY NIGHTS WITH GOETHE AND PROUST
RECKLESSLY ABANDONED
FOR YOU! WHO THINKS CHEKHOV IS KING TO G3
AND JOYCE MY COLLEGE ROOMMATE!
THEN WHEN I SHOW YOU A MOVE YOU CAN'T FATHOM
I HAVE TO ADMIT IT FEELS GREAT -
(She makes a move on Freddie's board: the very move he'd been searching for)
FREDDIE
GREAT NEWS FOR CHESS FANCIERS
HEY, THAT'S HOW HE DID IT
YEAH, THAT'S HOW THAT COMMIE JERK PLAYS!
FLORENCE
MAYBE I DESERVE A RAISE!
FREDDIE
I'M ONLY TEASING SOVIETS
WITH GENTLE BONHOMIE
AND YOU'VE A BETTER REASON TO BE ANTI-THEM THAN ME
FLORENCE
THERE'S A TIME AND THERE'S A PLACE
FREDDIE
WELL HOW ABOUT HERE AND NOW? ARE YOU FOR ME OR FOR THEM?
FLORENCE
THERE'S A TIME AND THERE'S A PLACE.
FREDDIE
1956 - BUDAPEST IS RISING
1968 - PRAGUE AND MR. DUBCEK
1968 - SOME OF US REMEMBER.
I'D HAVE THOUGHT YOU'D SUPPORT
ANY ATTACK ON THESE PEOPLE
ON THE PEOPLE WHO RAN
MINDLESSLY OVER YOUR CHILDHOOD
APPEARANCES ALTERED
BUT MOST OF THE NAMES ARE THE SAME
FLORENCE
(agitated, but controlled)
1968 - HISTORY AND BLACKMAIL
TRY ANOTHER LINE - THAT'S ALL IN THE PAST NOW
FREDDIE
THEY SEE CHESS AS A WAR
PLAYING WITH PAWNS LIKE YOUR FATHER.
IF YOU WALK OUT ON ME
YOU'RE REALLY BETRAYING HIS HONOR
WERE HE ALIVE NOW
HE'D SURELY BE DYING OF SHAME
FLORENCE
YOU KNOW THAT THERE'S NOTHING I'VE DONE
THAT HE'D BE ASHAMED OF IN MY WHOLE LIFE!
WHY'D YOU HAVE TO DO THIS TO ME?
(Freddie walks out, slamming the door in her face)
NOBODY'S SIDE
FLORENCE
WHAT'S GOING ON AROUND ME
IS BARELY MAKING SENSE
I NEED SOME EXPLANATIONS FAST
I SEE MY PRESENT PARTNER
IN THE IMPERFECT TENSE
AND I DON'T SEE HOW WE CAN LAST
I FEEL I NEED A CHANGE OF CAST
MAYBE I'M ON NOBODY'S SIDE
AND WHEN HE GIVES ME REASONS
TO JUSTIFY EACH MOVE
THEY'RE GETTING HARDER TO BELIEVE
I KNOW THIS CAN'T CONTINUE
I'VE STILL A LOT TO PROVE
THERE MUST BE MORE I COULD ACHIEVE
BUT I DON'T HAVE THE NERVE TO LEAVE
(Various career women emerge from their hotel rooms)
FLORENCE & WOMEN
EVERYBODY'S PLAYING THE GAME
BUT NOBODY'S RULES ARE THE SAME
NOBODY'S ON NOBODY'S SIDE
BETTER LEARN TO GO IT ALONE
RECOGNIZE YOU'RE OUT ON YOUR OWN
NOBODY'S ON NOBODY'S SIDE
FLORENCE
THE ONE I SHOULD NOT THINK OF
KEEPS ROLLING THROUGH MY MIND
AND I DON'T WANT TO LET THAT GO
NO LOVER'S EVER FAITHFUL
NO CONTRACT TRULY SIGNED
THERE'S NOTHING CERTAIN LEFT TO KNOW
AND HOW THE CRACKS BEGIN TO SHOW!
FLORENCE & WOMEN
NEVER MAKE A PROMISE OR PLAN
TAKE A LITTLE LOVE WHERE YOU CAN
NOBODY'S ON NOBODY'S SIDE
NEVER STAY TOO LONG IN YOUR BED
NEVER LOSE YOUR HEART, USE YOUR HEAD
NOBODY'S ON NOBODY'S SIDE
NEVER TAKE A STRANGER'S ADVICE
NEVER LET A FRIEND FOOL YOU TWICE
NOBODY'S ON NOBODY'S SIDE
NEVER BE THE FIRST TO BELIEVE
NEVER BE THE LAST TO DECEIVE
NOBODY'S ON NOBODY'S SIDE
NEVER LEAVE A MOMENT TOO SOON
NEVER WASTE A HOT AFTERNOON
NOBODY'S ON NOBODY'S SIDE
NEVER STAY A MINUTE TOO LONG
DON'T FORGET THE BEST WILL GO WRONG
NOBODY'S ON NOBODY'S SIDE
BETTER LEARN TO GO IT ALONE
RECOGNIZE YOU'RE OUT ON YOUR OWN
NOBODY'S ON NOBODY'S SIDE
Scene transition:
Scene Six: THE RUSSIAN SUITE
(Chess board set up as per American suite. Anatoly attempting to relax. Svetlana
surrounded by duty-free shopping. Molokov partaking of room service)
SVETLANA
The man is utterly mad, Anatoly - you're playing a lunatic!
ANATOLY
That's the problem. He's a brilliant lunatic. You can't tell which way he'll jump or why.
When he's playing chess or when he throws a fit - he's impossible to analyse; you can't
dissect him, you can't predict him - which of course means he's not a lunatic at all.
MOLOKOV
WHAT WE'VE JUST SEEN'S A PATHETIC DISPLAY
FROM A MAN WHO'S BEGINNING TO CRACK
HE'S AFRAID - I'VE SEEN AMERICANS DO THIS BEFORE
WE'RE ON THE RIGHT TRACK!
ANATOLY
NONSENSE!
WHY DO MY SECONDS ALWAYS WANT TO BELIEVE
THIRD-RATE PROPAGANDA?
MOLOKOV
MY FRIEND - PLEASE RELAX; WE'RE ALL ON YOUR SIDE
YOU KNOW HOW YOU NEED US
ANATOLY
I DON'T NEED MY ARMY OF SO-CALLED "ADVISORS"
AND HELPERS TO TELL ME
THE MAN WHO'S REVITALISED CHESS SINGLE-HANDED
IS MORE OR LESS OUT OF HIS BRAIN
WHEN IT'S VERY CLEAR HE'S SANE
MOLOKOV
LISTEN, WE DON'T UNDERESTIMATE TRUMPER
WE WON'T GET CAUGHT IN THAT TRAP
AFTER ALL, WINNING OR LOSING REFLECTS ON US ALL -
ANATOLY
OH DON'T GIVE ME THAT CRAP!
I WIN - NO ONE ELSE DOES
AND I TAKE THE RAP IF I LOSE
MOLOKOV
IT'S NOT QUITE THAT SIMPLE
THE WHOLE WORLD'S TUNED IN
WE'RE ON DISPLAY
WE'RE NOT MERELY SPORTSMEN -
ANATOLY
OH PLEASE DON'T START SPOUTING THAT OLD PARTY LINE
YES I KNOW IT'S YOUR JOB BUT
YOU BETTER STOP PULLING SUCH GAMES PRETTY QUICK
OR YOU'RE SAVING THIS MATCH AND YOUR SKIN
THAT IS IF YOU WANT TO WIN!
SVETLANA
I don't want to win. Not if it does this to you - to us.
ANATOLY
(almost shouting)
Does what to me - to us?
SVETLANA
You can't see?
ANATOLY
I'm sorry. But it would be madness to let twenty years of work be destroyed at the final
hurdle because of this megalomaniac's antics.
SVETLANA
And five years marriage -
ANATOLY
It will all be fine once this match is over. I promise.
SVETLANA
If we still have a marriage?
MOLOKOV
If we still have a match!
ANATOLY
(to Molokov)
Well, make sure we do! What the hell else do you have to do?
(pause)
Silly question -
MOLOKOV
You're becoming as crazy as Trumper. Anatoly, relax. Do your job - I'll do mine.
Svetlana -
(Molokov and Svetlana leave)
WHERE I WANT TO BE
ANATOLY
WHO NEEDS A DREAM?
WHO NEEDS AMBITION?
WHO'D BE THE FOOL
IN MY POSITION?
ONCE I HAD DREAMS
NOW THEY'RE OBSESSIONS
HOPES BECOME NEEDS
LOVERS POSSESSIONS
THEN THEY MOVE IN
OH SO DISCREETLY
SLOWLY AT FIRST
SMILING TOO SWEETLY
I OPENED DOORS
THEY WALKED RIGHT THROUGH THEM
CALLED ME THEIR FRIEND
I HARDLY KNEW THEM
NOW I'M WHERE I WANT TO BE AND WHO I WANT TO BE
AND DOING WHAT I ALWAYS SAID I WOULD
AND YET I FEEL I HAVEN'T WON AT ALL
RUNNING FOR MY LIFE AND NEVER LOOKING BACK
IN CASE THERE'S SOMEONE RIGHT BEHIND
TO SHOOT ME DOWN AND SAY HE ALWAYS KNEW I'D FALL
WHEN THE CRAZY WHEEL SLOWS DOWN
WHERE WILL I BE? BACK WHERE I STARTED
DON'T GET ME WRONG
I'M NOT COMPLAINING
TIMES HAVE BEEN GOOD
FAST, ENTERTAINING
BUT WHAT'S THE POINT?
IF I'M CONCEALING
MOST OF MY THOUGHTS
ALL OF MY FEELINGS
NOW I'M...
(Various well-attired male guests emerge from their hotel rooms)
ANATOLY & MEN
..WHERE I WANT TO BE AND WHO I WANT TO BE
AND DOING WHAT I ALWAYS SAID I WOULD
AND YET I FEEL I HAVEN'T WON AT ALL
RUNNING FOR MY LIFE AND NEVER LOOKING BACK
IN CASE THERE'S SOMEONE RIGHT BEHIND
TO SHOOT ME DOWN AND SAY HE ALWAYS KNEW I'D FALL
ANATOLY
WHEN THE CRAZY WHEEL SLOWS DOWN
WHERE WILL I BE?
BACK WHERE I STARTED.
Scene Seven: THE TERRACE BAR
(Cocktail Hour. Arbiter at the piano, various nationalities assembled. The Children play
chess)
COCKTAIL CHORUS
CHORUS
(Music: slow foxtrot arrangement of "One Night in Bangkok")
ASK ANY CONOISSEURS OF HUMAN NATURE
THIS IS A MELTING POT YOU CAN'T IGNORE
WITH NO DISTURBANCE FROM THE LEGISLATURE
THE PLAYERS MOVE AS THOUSANDS HAVE BEFORE
AS WAS, IS NOW, AND SHALL BE, EVERMORE
THIS IS A TERRACE OF A THOUSAND STORIES
EACH ONE SO TYPICAL OF HUMANKIND
A BAR WHERE ONE IN EVERY THREE OR FOUR IS
YOURS FOR THE ASKING IF YOU'RE SO INCLINED
ONE IN A HUNDRED COULD BE QUITE A FIND
(Walter and Molokov emerge from the crowd)
WALTER
So everybody's friends again, are we, Mr. Molokov? Do we owe this to your charm or
to your brutality?
MOLOKOV
Let us say that I am at least quietly confident of a little diplomatic triumph. We must not
count our chickens, however. I have arranged with Miss Vassy for a private meeting
between the two antagonists. I think they will all see sense. Not that Anatoly has ever
done anything else. But he is not going to give Trumper the satisfaction of rising to his
bait. We are civilised.
WALTER
Well my television boys will be relieved. They weren't looking forward to explaining to
their sponsors that, unless they're in the yogurt business, their products were off the
screen.
MOLOKOV
What exactly is your business here, Mr. de Coursey?
WALTER
Really, Alexander! I'm here to insure that the commercial benefits of this circus are
maximized on behalf of various - er - clients.
MOLOKOV
(chuckles)
Yes. And I am the Pope. Tell me about Florence Vassy.
WALTER
You know all about Florence Vassy, your holiness.
MOLOKOV
I know that her father disappeared after that incident in Prague in 1968...
WALTER
Incident!
MOLOKOV
So I know she was smuggled out of Czechoslovakia when she was five, back when you
and I knew exactly where we stood, eh, Mr. de Courcey?
(chuckles)
I'm already nostalgic for the old cold war days. This new "openness" is such a strain.
WALTER
A rather cynical attitude, comrade.
MOLOKOV
It's much easier to deal with opposite numbers when you know you can't trust them.
WALTER
So that's all you know about Florence? Fled Prague in '68?
MOLOKOV
Of course not. I know she was brought up in England, and I know she met Trumper
when she was at University in America. But is she with him because she likes chess? A
woman liking chess that much?
(laughs)
Does she sleep with him?
WALTER
(as Florence enters)
Why don't you ask her yourself?
FLORENCE
How refreshing to see East and West in such harmony. Where is Anatoly, Mr.
Molokov? I didn't agree to this meeting out of the goodness of my heart.
MOLOKOV
Well where's Freddie, Miss Vassy?
WALTER
Do I detect a less than promising start to your diplomatic triumph, Alexander? Two no-
shows?
MOLOKOV
Not at all, - er - Walter.
(Anatoly enters - Molokov seems aware of this without even looking at him.)
We may have to wait a while for the tardy Mr. Trumper, however.
(He notices Florence's locket)
Ah, this is very pretty. Perhaps some of him is with us already. A lock of his hair,
perhaps?
(A concierge approaches Molokov and hands him a note. He reads it. Walter greeets
Anatoly.)
Excuse me, I have to make a telephone call.
(Molokov exits. Walter hands Anatoly an envelope.)
WALTER
(to Anatoly)
Your interview details. It's all there.
ANATOLY
(carefully)
Yes, of course.
WALTER
(to both Anatoly and Florence)
Well, will you excuse me? I hope the discussions with Freddie go well.
FLORENCE
(too late)
Just a moment....
(But she and Anatoly are now alone. The cocktail crowd have moved upstage to admire
the evening sky. The Arbiter reprises the chorus, accompanying himself at the piano)
COCKTAIL CHORUS - reprise
ARBITER
THIS IS A TERRACE OF A THOUSAND STORIES
EACH ONE SO TYPICAL OF HUMANKIND
A BAR WHERE ONE IN EVERY THREE OR FOUR IS
THERE FOR THE ASKING IF YOU'RE SO INCLINED
ONE IN A HUNDRED COULD BE QUITE A FIND
(The Arbiter and pianist exit. Anatoly is engrossed in Walter's document.)
TERRACE DUET
FLORENCE
(to herself)
THIS IS THE ONE SITUATION
I WANTED MOST TO AVOID
NOTHING I SAY WILL CONVINCE HIM THIS ISN'T A TRICK.
ANATOLY
A DRINK ON A CLEAR MOONLIT NIGHT - I RELAX, SHE SMILES
THERE'S SOMETHING PECULIAR GOING ON.
FLORENCE
SO, THROUGH NO FAULT OF MY OWN, I'M IN IT
WAY OVER MY HEAD
EMBARRASSED, OUTNUMBERED, MAROONED.
ANATOLY
NOW SHE CAN'T BE WORKING FOR THEM - I MEAN US -
SHE SEEMS SO VERY STRAIGHTFORWARD - BUT WHERE IS HE?
FLORENCE
HE HAS TO SHOW UP
IT CAN'T COME TO NOTHING -
PERHAPS IT CAN.
ANATOLY
MAYBE HE'S SCARED
BUT HE DIDN'T SEEM SCARED IN THE GAME.
FLORENCE
OH, I JUST COULDN'T CARE LESS
HE CAN GO RIGHT AHEAD GO AND WRECK HIS CAREER
I KNOW I'VE DONE MY BEST.
ANATOLY
WELL AT LEAST SHE'S A GOOD-LOOKING SPY
FLORENCE
WHAT IF MY RUSSIAN FRIEND THINKS THAT MY PLANS
HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH THE CHESS?
IF I DON'T SAY SOMETHING AND SOON
HE'LL GO - MAYBE I'M ON NOBODY'S SIDE!
(st last he approaches her and takes her hand for a dance)
ANATOLY
LISTEN, I HATE TO BREAK UP THE MOOD
HOW DO YOU SAY, BEGIN THE BEGUINE
HAVEN'T YOU NOTICED WE ARE ONE CHARACTER SHORT
IN THIS IDYLLIC, WELL-PRODUCED SCENE?
FLORENCE
(dancing with Anatoly)
HOW COULD I NOT, MISS VASSY REGRETS
ANYTHING GOES WITH YOUR OPPONENT.
ANATOLY
NEVER MIND HIM - I HAVEN'T MISSED HIM SO FAR
MAYBE IT WON'T DO ANY HARM
TO STRUGGLE ON WITHOUT HIS CHARM.
BOTH
(More seriously as Walter enters, unseen, and hovers US)
FUNNY HOW ALL AT ONCE I FEEL
NOTHING ABOUT THIS MEETING MATTERS ANYMORE
(The light-hearted dancing turns into a long passionate embrace)
COCKTAIL CHORUS
THIS IS A TERRACE OF A THOUSAND STORIES
EACH ONE SO TYPICAL OF HUMANKIND
THEIRS IS NO DIFFERENT, BUT THEY DON'T MIND!
(The couple emerge from their embrace. Florence almost in shock. Anatoly obviously
entranced. During the following the Chorus disperse to their rooms or each others'.)
FLORENCE
THIS IS THE ONE SITUATION
I WANTED MOST TO AVOID
ANATOLY
MY DEAR OPPONENT -
I REALLY CAN'T IMAGINE WHY
FLORENCE
YOU THINK I'M THE DANGEROUS KIND --
WELL, I AM!
ANATOLY
YOU -- YOU'RE NOT DANGEROUS --
WHO COULD THINK THAT OF YOU?
FLORENCE
YOU -- YOU ARE SO STRANGE --
WHY CAN'T YOU BE WHAT YOU OUGHT TO BE?
FLORENCE & ANATOLY
YOU SHOULD BE SCHEMING, INTRIGUING,
TOO CLEVER BY HALF
ANATOLY
I HAVE TO HAND IT TO YOU --
FOR YOU'VE MANAGED TO MAKE ME
FORGET WHY I EVER AGREED TO THIS FARCE
FLORENCE & ANATOLY
I DON'T KNOW WHY I CAN'T THINK OF ANYTHING
I WOULD RATHER DO
THAN BE WASTING MY TIME WITH SOMEONE LIKE YOU.
(As song ends, Molokov and Freddie enter. Molokov is checking some papers but
Freddie witnesses the extended kiss between Florence and Anatoly. Leaving Molokov,
he confronts the duo.)
FREDDIE
WHO'D EVER THINK IT?
SUCH A VERY PRETTY SETTING!
TELL ME WHAT'S THE BETTING
VERY PRETTY PLOTTING TOO?
NO MATTER -
(indicating Molokov)
WE'VE DONE ALL YOUR WORK FOR YOU
(He approaches Florence)
WHO'D EVER GUESS IT?
DAUGHTER IN COLLABORATION
WITH THE VERY NATION
GAVE HER FATHER THIRD DEGREE!
WHERE'S DADDY? DEAD OR IN THE KGB?
(Molokov reacts to Freddie's final words. Florence storms off. Freddie descends on
Anatoly, intercepted by Walter. Molokov takes Anatoly aside)
Scene transition.
PART 2 Link here.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chess
Music: Benny Andersson + Björn Ulvaeus
Lyrics: Tim Rice
Book: Tim Rice
Premiere: Wednesday, May 14, 1986
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHESS A MUSICAL BY
BENNY ANDERSSON - TIM RICE - BJORN ULVAEUS
AUSTRALIAN PRODUCTION SCRIPT
© TIM RICE 1990
REVISED SCRIPT, FEBRUARY 1990
"CHESS"
CAST
THE ARBITER International Chess Federation
FREDDIE TRUMPER American Chess Champion
ANATOLY SERGIEVSKY Soviet Chess Champion
FLORENCE VASSY Anglo/American, born Czech
SVETLANA SERGIEVSKA Married to Anatoly
WALTER de COURCEY American Official
2 EMBASSY OFFICIALS British Diplomats
VOCAL ENSEMBLE (20)
DANCE ENSEMBLE (8)
CHILDREN (2)
ORCHESTRA
STRING QUARTET (2 VIOLINS, VIOLA, CELLO)
FLUTE/PICCOLO/TENOR SAX
OBOE/COR ANGLAIS
CLARINET/ALTO SAX/BARITONE SAX/BASS CLARINET
FRENCH HORN
1ST TRUMPET
2ND TRUMPET
TENOR TROMBONE/BASS TROMBONE
KAT/PERCUSSION
ELECTRIC GUITAR
ELECTRIC BASS
DRUMS
ACCOUSTIC GRAND PIANO/KORG M1
ELECTRONIC KEYBOARD (KORG M1)
Yje Australian Production of CHESS
premiered at the Theatre Royal, Sydney
on the 3rd of February, 1990
THEATRE ROYAL-MLC CENTRE, KING STREET, SYDNEY, 2000
TEL: 224 8444 FAX: 223-3994
"CHESS"
This is the script for the Australian production of CHESS - Tim Rice's full text (book &
lyrics). While it includes some stage directions specific to this production, they have
been kept to a minimum.
Some points about the characters:
It is important to understand the equation between the two Chess-players. At the
beginning FREDDIE is the brash, passionate, single-minded Champion. ANATOLY is a
more reasonable and sophisticated player. By the end, though not so neatly, their roles
have reversed.
FLORENCE, who is the emotional centre of the drama, begins by announcing herself as
"a citizen of the world," but will find that freedom has a price and history a pivotal role
in people's lives. Her conflict between emotional allegiance and personal liberty, locates
the central theme of CHESS.
The loyal SVETLANA finds her sense of security under siege and departs a worldlier
figure.
Of Course, BANGKOK is the perfect city to play host and catalyst to these emotional
upheavals.
Representing the International Chess Federation, THE ARBITER views all these antics
with a wry, almost spiritual detachment, until they start to intrude on his world - the
world of CHESS.
WALTER and MOLOKOV, behind their entertaining masks of conviviality, are practised
opportunists. They believe passionately in their differing systems and genuinely regard
the game as more important that its players.
The HOTEL GUESTS, TOURISTS, CITIZENS, etc. represent the vox populi, as they
might in a Greek tragedy.
CHESS is virtually unique among modern musicals, in being neither nostalgic nor a
period costume drama. It extends the tradition of the popular, romantic musical by
turning its clear gaze on the world around us. The entire show also perfectly illustrates
Dorothy Parker's legendary Hollywood maxim: "It may come as a surprise to you, Mr.
Goldwyn, but noone's life has a happy ending."
Jim Sharman [director]
Sydney, 1990
The Australian production of CHESS is set
in and around an international hotel in the
city of Bangkok at a time when the cold war
years were giving way to a new age of openness
ACT ONE
Scene One: THE CHESSBOARD
PRELUDE ("You and I" theme). The curtain rises to reveal a gauze cloth depicting The
Emerald Buddha. As the drums introduce the "BANGKOK" theme, silhouettes are
glimpsed through the cloth. The gauze flies out to reveal the soaring atrium of an
internation hotel in Bangkok. Glittering guests and hotel staff are gathered for a Thai
Dance performance, illustrating the origins of the game of Chess. Two warriors battle
on a chessboard stage, around a globe of the world. The battle intensifies to a struggle
for global supremacy climaxing in an explosion. From the smoke, a figure emerges. It is
the ARBITER, dressed as a contemporary nightclub compere. With the assembled
guests and staff, he sings:
THE STORY OF CHESS
ARBITER/GUESTS/STAFF
Each game of chess means there's one less
Variation left to be played
Each day got through means one or two
Less mistakes remain to be made
(The following fable is delicately illustrated by a series of mythical tableaux - the brothers
fighting, the mother weeping, etc.)
ARBITER
Not much is known
Of early days of chess beyond a fairly vague report
That fifteen hundred years ago two princes fought
Though brothers, for a Hindu throne
Their mother cried
For no-one really likes their offspring
fighting to the death
She begged them stop the slaughter
with her every breath
But sure enough one brother died
ARBITER/GUESTS/STAFF
Sad beyond belief
She told her winning son
You have caused such grief
I can't forgive this evil thing you've done
He tried to explain
How things had really been
But he tried in vain
No words of his could mollify the queen
ARBITER
And so he asked the wisest men he knew
The way to lessen her distress
They told him he'd be pretty certain to impress
By using model soldiers on
A chequered board to show it was his brother's
fault
They thus invented ...
(The Two Small Children are revealed, concentrating intently on a game of chess.)
ALL
(mysteriously)
... chess
(The Arbiter formally bows)
Scene transition:
Scene Two: THE ARRIVAL
Guests disperse. Atrium elevators descend. Fanfare. The ARBITER snaps us into the
present with the following announcement:
ARBITER
Our game plan commences with the arrival of two chess warriors at the International
Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand.
From PS elevator step FREDDIE/FLORENCE/WALTER. From OP elevator,
ANATOLY/SVETLANA/MOLOKOV.Bangkok music. "Welcome" banner. The
Arbiter steps into the action at a bank of press microphones:
ARBITER
(very formal)
On behalf of the king and the people of Thailand, and the International Chess Federation,
I am proud to welcome you to the ancient culture of Thailand and the magnificent city of
Bangkok, the world's two greatest players of the ancient and magnificent game of chess.
Frederick Trumper of the United States, the world champion. And the new challenger
for his title, champion of the Soviet Union, Anatoly Sergievsky.
FREDDIE
(to Anatoly)
Mr. Sergievsky, may I present my second, Miss Florence Vassy.
ANATOLY
My pleasure, Miss Vassy.
(he kisses her hand. They exchange smiles)
FLORENCE
Mr. Sergievsky. May I present Mr. Walter de Courcey, the member of our delegation
responsible for the commercial aspects of this enterprise -
WALTER
A necessary evil, I'm afraid, Mr. Sergievsky, when there is so much media attention -
ANATOLY
(dismissively)
Yes, of course.
(turns to Florence)
Miss Vassy, I'm delighted the days of chess being an all-male preserve are over.
(Florence smiles, Molokov intervenes)
MOLOKOV
I am Mr. Sergievsky's second, Miss Vassy.
FLORENCE
Mr. Molokov - I know you by reputation.
MOLOKOV
And we know you, Miss Vassy.
FLORENCE
Thank you.
MOLOKOV
Yes we take a great interest in Czechoslovak citizens who have made a success of life in
the West -
FLORENCE
Oh, I'm a citizen of the world, now, Mr. Molokov.
MOLOKOV
(to Freddie)
Mr. Trumper.
(to Walter)
We have no equivalent delegate with your particular talents, Mr. de Courcey - whatever
they may be.
WALTER
Mr. Molokov -
MOLOKOV
Our champion is , however, blessed with the support of his wife. Mr. Trumper, Miss
Vassy, Mr. de Courcey - Svetlana Sergievska.
FLORENCE crosses to SVETLANA.
FLORENCE
Have you traveled abroad with your husband before, Mrs. Sergievsky?
SVETLANA
Nyet. I'm looking forward to discovering your sophisticated world, Miss Vassy.
(They each step down in turn to sing, though still addressing their respective opposite
numbers)
FLORENCE
(to Svetlana)
WHEN YOU MAKE GOOD IN ANY CALLING (MUSIC: ENDGAME/
SUDDENLY HALF THE WORLD IS FALLING MODEL OF DECORUM)
OVER ITSELF TO BE YOUR FRIEND.
SVETLANA
THAT'S OKAY BY ME.
ANATOLY
(to Freddie)
"TOUGH AT THE TOP," IS THAT THE CLICHE?
I HAVE TO LEARN AS NOUVEAU RICHE -
FREDDIE
- A
NEW KID IN TOWN. YOU MIGHT NOT LIKE
WHAT YOU WANT TO BE.
MOLOKOV & WALTER
A JOB TO DO WELL, AN EMPTY CANVAS
A GAME THAT'S MORE IMPORTANT THAN ITS PLAYERS.
ALL
(except Arbiter)
THE UNBRIDLED JOY
ANTICIPATING ALL THE
COMPLICATIONS OF A SIMPLE BOARD GAME
FLORENCE & SVETLANA ANATOLY/FREDDIE/
MOLOKOV/WALTER
ALL THE COMPLICATIONS
OF A SIMPLE BOARD GAME ALL THE
THE MANY COMPLICATIONS COMPLICATIONS
OF A SIMPLE BOARD GAME. OF A SIMPLE BOARD GAME.
Svetlana departs with Molokov and Florence with Walter.
ARBITER
(to audience)
For kings of chess to be at their best, it's important for them to assimilate the local
atmosphere - thus, we see the world champion and his challenger head downtown.
Scene Three: THE CITY
Freddie and Anatoly plus Tourists and Citizens. The reaction of each player to the
blandishments of the Tourists and Citizens illustrates some basic differences in their
personalities - Anatoly much more polite in refusing.
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK
FREDDIE
BANGKOK! ORIENTAL SETTING
AND THE CITY DON'T KNOW WHAT THE CITY IS GETTING
THE CREME DE LA CREME OF THE CHESS WORLD IN A
SHOW WITH EVERYTHING BUT YUL BRYNNER.
(Monks with shopping bags hurry by)
ANATOLY
BANGKOK! JUST ANOTHER STOP IN
THE CHESS WORLD CIRCUS - MASTERS DROP IN,
PLAY, CHECKMATE, CHECK OUT AND THEN YOU
MOVE ON TO ANOTHER VENUE.
LIKE REYKJAVIK -
FREDDIE
OR THE PHILIPPINES -
ANATOLY
OR MOSCOW -
BOTH
OR ... THIS PLACE!
(Crowd of tourists appear with tour guide)
TOURISTS
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK AND THE WORLD'S YOUR OYSTER
THE BARS ARE TEMPLES BUT THE PEARLS AIN'T FREE
YOU'LL FIND A GOD IN EVERY GOLDEN CLOISTER
AND IF YOU'RE LUCKY THEN THE GOD'S A SHE
I CAN FEEL AN ANGEL SLIDING UP TO ME
ANATOLY
ONE TOWN'S VERY LIKE ANOTHER
FREDDIE
WHEN YOUR HEAD'S DOWN OVER YOUR PIECES, BROTHER
(A tout accosts Freddie)
TOUT #1
IT'S A DRAG -
TOUT #2
IT'S A BORE -
TOUTS
IT'S REALLY SUCH A PITY
TO BE LOOKING AT THE BOARD, NOT LOOKING AT THE CITY
FREDDIE
WHADDAYA MEAN? YOU'VE SEEN ONE CROWDED, POLLUTED, STINKING
TOWN, YOU'VE SEEN 'EM ALL!
BAR-MADAM
(as her Bar-girls solicit Freddie's attention)
TEA, GIRLS, WARM, SWEET
SOME ARE SET UP IN THE SOMERSET MAUGHAM SUITE.
FREDDIE
GET THAI'D! I AIN'T A TOURIST
MY EVERY MOVE'S AMONG THE PUREST.
(at a clap from the Madam, the girls transfer their attentions to Anatoly)
ANATOLY
I GET MY KICKS ABOVE THE WAISTLINE, COMRADES!
(Another tour group appears)
ALL
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK MAKES A HARD MAN HUMBLE
NOT MUCH BETWEEN DESPAIR AND ECSTASY
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK AND THE TOUGH GUYS TUMBLE
CAN'T BE TOO CAREFUL WITH YOUR COMPANY
I CAN FEEL THE DEVIL WALKING NEXT TO ME.
(Buddhist shrine revealed. Monks attend with garlands - photographed by tourists)
ANATOLY
BANGKOK! ORIENTAL LEAVEN
OF THE BEST OF HELL AND THE WORST OF HEAVEN
A WINNING SMILE - A FALSE IMPRESSION
A RUSH OF BLOOD - AN INDISCRETION.
BANGKOK! THE LIGHTS CONCEALING
SILKY THIEVES OF REASON, STEALING
OUT BEFORE ITS VICTIM'S WAKEN
THIS IS HOW THE WEST WAS TAKEN.
ALL
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK MAKES A HARD MAN HUMBLE
NOT MUCH BETWEEN DESPAIR AND ECSTASY
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK AND THE TOUGH GUYS TUMBLE
CAN'T BE TOO CAREFUL WITH YOUR COMPANY
I CAN FEEL THE DEVIL WALKING NEXT TO ME.
FREDDIE
SIAM'S GONNA BE THE WITNESS
TO THE ULTIMATE TEST IN CEREBRAL FITNESS
THIS GRIPS ME MORE THAN WOULD A
MUDDY OLD RIVER OR RECLINING BUDDAH.
(to Anatoly)
I DON'T SEE THESE GUYS RATING
THE KIND OF MATE WE'RE CONTEMPLATING
WE'D LET 'EM WATCH, WE WOULD INVITE 'EM
BUT THE QUEENS WE USE WOULD NOT EXCITE 'EM
So they'd better go back to their bars, their temples, their massage parlors....
(Shrine transforms into nightclub with Bar-girls, Go-Go dancers, drunken tourists, etc.)
ALL
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK AND THE WORLD'S YOUR OYSTER
THE BARS ARE TEMPLES BUT THE PEARLS AIN'T FREE
YOU'LL FIND A GOD IN EVERY GOLDEN CLOISTER
A LITTLE FLESH, A LITTLE HISTORY
I CAN FEEL AN ANGEL SLIDING UP TO ME.
(Dance break)
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK MAKES A HARD MAN HUMBLE
NOT MUCH BETWEEN DESPAIR AND ECSTASY
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK AND THE TOUGH GUYS TUMBLE
CAN'T BE TOO CAREFUL WITH YOUR COMPANY
I CAN FEEL THE DEVIL WALKING NEXT TO ME.
Scene Four: THE TOURNAMENT
TOURNAMENT SONG
CHILDREN
IN A WORLD OF CHANGING VALUES, SHIFTING VIEWS
WHERE ALL WE WIN - WE WIN TO LOSE
WHAT A JOY TO BE AROUND EVENTS LIKE THIS -
CONSTANT, CERTAIN, CALM, A WORLD OF ORDERED BLISS.
(brief formal dance)
WE ARE ONE BIG HAPPY FAMILY, BLACK AND WHITE
THE GAME OUR ONE TRUE GUIDING LIGHT
SWEEPING THROUGH THE DARKEST CORNERS TO EXPRESS
COUNTRIES, CLASSES, CREEDS AS ONE IN LOVE OF CHESS.
(Tournament area is revealed as observers and U.S./U.S.S.R. delegates assemble. Also
hotel staff, the Arbiter and his assistants.)
U.S. v U.S.S.R.
OBSERVERS
NO ONE CAN DENY THESE ARE ENCOURAGING TIMES
THESE ARE OPTIMISTIC AND ENCOURAGING TIMES
(Florence and Molokov approach each other warily.)
MOLOKOV
Miss Vassy -
FLORENCE
Mr. Molokov -
DELEGATES
(led by Walter and Molokov but Florence's top position should be clear. However she
should not be involved in the more bitchy lines. She and Molokov prepare their
objections for the Arbiter)
IT'S THE US VERSUS USSR
YET WE MORE OR LESS ARE -
OBSERVERS
NO ONE CAN DENY THESE ARE ENCOURAGING TIMES
DELEGATES
- TO OUR CREDIT PUTTING ALL THAT ASIDE
WE HAVE SWALLOWED OUR PRIDE
OBSERVERS
THESE ARE OPTIMISTIC AND ENCOURAGING TIMES
MOLOKOV
IT REALLY DOESN'T MATTER WHO COMES OUT ON TOP
DELEGATES
WHO GETS THE CHOP
MOLOKOV
THOUGH IT COULD MEAN FOREIGN TRAVEL HAS TO STOP
DELEGATES
BUT WE'RE GONNA SMASH THEIR BASTARD!
MAKE HIM WANNA CHANGE HIS NAME
TAKE HIM TO THE CLEANERS AND DEVASTATE HIM
WIPE HIM OUT HUMILIATE HIM
WE DON'T WANT THE WHOLE WORLD SAYING
THEY CAN'T EVEN WIN A GAME
WE HAVE NEVER RECKONED
ON COMING SECOND
THERE'S NO USE IN LOSING.
ARBITER
(entering)
Delegates! Mr. Molokov, Mr. de Courcey...and Miss Vassy. As you can see, the arena
has been prepared for the competition, exactly in accordance with the specifications laid
down in the match contracts; we are now ready to consider last-minute pre-match
applications, representations or objections.
FLORENCE
The American delegation wishes to protest the size of the Soviet delegation which far
exceeds the permitted number -
MOLOKOV
Our delegation consists of only three people; our tactician, myself, of course, and our
champion. His doctor, psychologist, PT expert, security agents and chef cannot be
considered delegates!
ARBITER
Objection overruled.
MOLOKOV
The Soviet delegation has reasons [sic] to believe that the American player's chair
contains communications devices, and therefore objects to the constitution of that chair -
FLORENCE
That's impossible! Both chairs were made in
(she examines them)
Sweden - therefore, they are neutral chairs.
ARBITER
Objection overruled.
FLORENCE
The American delegation wishes to object to the fact that each player is only allowed one
rest day per -
MOLOKOV
Oh! So you will be needing plenty of rest, eh? Heh-heh -
(the Soviet delegation joins in the laughter)
ARBITER
Objection overruled.
MOLOKOV
The Soviet delegation objects to the wearing of reflective dark glasses -
ARBITER
Objection overruled.
(Florence and her delegation whip our dark glasses in revenge for Molokov's rest day
jibe)
FLORENCE/MOLOKOV (together)
The American/Soviet delegation -
ARBITER
Objection overruled! I do not feel we're making meaningful progress. I'll entertain no
further proposals or objections. This is a great sporting occasion between
representatives of two great nations. Let us grace this event with the decorum it
deserves -
WALTER
Just one last point, Mr. Arbiter : -
(The Arbiter stares at Walter but says nothing)
I heartily concur with every sentiment of those stirring words, Mr. Arbiter. But may I
just make an application on behalf of the television and other companies making such a
major financial contribution to this event, that your permission be given to a few
commercial supporters of chess to set up a discreet display of wares in the arena -
FLORENCE/MOLOKOV
(together)
Objection!
ARBITER
Mr. de Courcey! I see no reason why such an imaginative proposal should not be
pursued. Take this card, call the number after ten tomorrow.
FLORENCE/MOLOKOV
(together)
Objection!
ARBITER
(extremely quickly)
Overruled!
DELEGATES
IT'S THE RED FLAG UP AGAINST STARS AND STRIPES
BUT WE'RE PEACE-LOVING TYPES
OBSERVERS
NO ONE CAN DENY THESE ARE ENCOURAGING TIMES
WALTER
IT'S A SWEET HAIL-FELLOW-WELL-MET AFFAIR
FOR BOTH EAGLE AND BEAR.
OBSERVERS
THESE ARE OPTIMISTIC AND ENCOURAGING TIMES.
MOLOKOV
TO THOSE WHO SAY THAT THIS IS NOT A FRIENDLY CLASH
DELEGATES
DON'T BE SO RASH!
MOLOKOV
I ASSURE YOU COMRADES THAT IS BALDERDASH
AMERICANS
WHAT A LOAD OF WHINGEING PEASANTS!
THINKING THEY CAN WIN - THEY CAN'T!
WHAT AN EXHIBITION OF SELF-DELUSION
THIS ONE'S A FOREGONE CONCLUSION
WE DON'T WANT THE WHOLE WORLD SAYING
THEY CAN'T EVEN WIN A GAME
WE HAVE NEVER RECKONED
ON COMING SECOND
THERE'S NO USE IN LOSING
WALTER/MOLOKOV
HOW GOOD TO FEEL THAT AS THIS GREAT EVENT BEGINS
IT UNDERPINS
OUR QUEST FOR PEACE, THE BONDS OF COMMON INTEREST
OF EAST AND WEST
AMERICANS
AS LONG AS OUR MAN WINS.
RUSSIANS
AS LONG AS OUR MAN -
ALL
--WINS!!
The champions enter and shake hands warily before the Arbiter lays down the law with:)
THE ARBITER'S SONG
ARBITER
I'VE A DUTY AS THE REFEREE
AT THE START OF THE MATCH
ON BEHALF OF ALL OUR SPONSORS
I MUST WELCOME YOU
WHICH I DO - THERE'S A CATCH.
I DON'T CARE IF YOU'RE A CHAMPION
NO ONE MESSES WITH ME
I AM RUTHLESS IN UPHOLDING
WHAT I KNOW IS RIGHT
BLACK OR WHITE - AS YOU'LL SEE
ARBITER DELEGATES/OBSERVERS
I'M ON THE CASE HE'S ON THE CASE
CAN'T BE FOOLED CAN'T BE FOOLED
ANY OBJECTION ANY OBJECTION
IS OVERRULED IS OVERRULED
YES HE'S THE ARBITER AND HE KNOWS BEST
HE'S IMPARTIAL
DON'T PUSH HIM
HE'S UNIMPRESSED
ARBITER
YOU GOT YOUR TRICKS?
GOOD FOR YOU!
BUT THERE'S NO GAMBIT
I DON'T SEE THROUGH
ARBITER DELEGATES/OBSERVERS
(spoken) HE'S THE ARBITER
I know the score HE KNOWS THE SCORE
From square one FROM SQUARE ONE
I'll be watching all - 64! HE'LL BE WATCHING ALL - 64!
(Dance break)
ARBITER
(to players)
IF YOU'RE THINKING OF THE KIND OF THING
THAT WE'VE SEEN IN THE PAST
CHANTING GURUS, WALKIE-TALKIES,
WALKOUTS, HYPNOTISTS,
TEMPERS, FISTS - NOT SO FAST
(then to Walter and Molokov)
THIS IS NOT THE START OF WORLD WAR THREE
NO POLITICAL PLOYS
I THINK BOTH YOUR CONSTITUTIONS ARE TERRIFIC SO
NOW YOU KNOW - BE GOOD BOYS
ARBITER DELEGATES/OBSERVERS
I'M ON THE CASE HE'S ON THE CASE
CAN'T BE FOOLED CAN'T BE FOOLED
ANY OBJECTION ANY OBJECTION
IS OVERRULED IS OVERRULED
HE'S THE ARBITER AND HE KNOWS BEST
HE'S IMPARTIAL
DON'T PUSH HIM
HE'S UNIMPRESSED
ARBITER
YOU GOT YOUR TRICKS?
GOOD FOR YOU!
BUT THERE'S NO GAMBIT
I DON'T SEE THROUGH
ARBITER DELEGATES/OBSERVERS
OH I'M THE ARBITER HE'S THE ARBITER
I KNOW THE SCORE HE KNOWS THE SCORE
FROM SQUARE ONE FROM SQUARE ONE
I'LL BE WATCHING ALL - HE'LL BE WATCHING ALL
ARBITER/DELEGATES/OBSERVERS
- SIXTY-FOUR!
(Freddie and Anatoly are now in position. Fanfare. The Arbiter stars the clock for play
to begin. The CHESS instrumental music begins and it appears that decorum and sanity
are now the order of the day. Freddie plays a confident opening sequence. However,
the focus shifts from the players as Walter ushers on a party of Merchandisers and
sponsors' logo-emblazoned banners unfurl from above)
MERCHANDISERS' SONG
MERCHANDISERS
WHETHER YOU ARE PRO OR ANTI
OR COULD NOT CARE LESS
WE ARE HERE TO TELL YOU
WE ARE HERE TO SELL YOU CHESS
NOT A CHANCE OF YOU ESCAPING FROM OUR WILES
WE'VE LOCKED THE DOORS, WE'VE BLOCKED THE AISLES
WE'VE A FRANCHISE WORTH EXPLOITING
AND WE WILL - YES WE WILL!
WHEN IT COMES TO MERCHANDISING
WE COULD KILL.
(We leave this high-kicking distraction briefly to rejoin the game of chess just as Anatoly
resigns. The Arbiter gives a match update.)
ARBITER
Mr. Trumper has won the first game. Mr. Sergievsky will play white in the second
game, starting tomorrow.
MERCHANDISERS
WE'VE DONE ALL OUR MARKET RESEARCH
AND OUR FINDINGS SHOW
THAT THIS GAME OF CHESS COULD BE AROUND
A MONTH OR SO
MAYBE IT'S A BIT CONFUSING
FOR A GAME
BUT RUBIK'S CUBES WERE MUCH THE SAME
IN THE END THE WHOLE WORLD BOUGHT ONE
- SIGHT UNSEEN
WE WILL DO THE SAME WITH BISHOP
ROOK AND QUEEN.
ARBITER
(This time Freddie is handing the Arbiter an envelope)
The second game is ajourned. Play will resume with Mr. Trumper's sealed move
tomorrow.
MERCHANDISERS
WHEN YOU GET UP -
WHEN YOU GET UP IN THE MORNING
TILL YOU GO TO BED
YOU WILL FIND OUR FRIENDLY MESSAGE
ROLLING 'ROUND YOUR HEAD.
CLEAN YOUR TEETH WITH CHEQUERED TOOTHPASTE
WEAR OUR VESTS
OUR KINGS AND QUEENS ON BOUNCING BREASTS
YOU COULD EVEN BUY A SET
AND LEARN TO PLAY
WE DON'T MIND WE'LL SELL YOU SOMETHING ANYWAY!
WE'LL SELL YOU SOMETHING ANYWAY!
(At the conclusion of the Merchandisers song we return to the apparent calm of the
match but notice that physical tension is building. A Soviet delegate (the Chef) is
presenting Amatoly a cup of yogurt and a napkin. Freddie stares in incredulity. As
Anatoly begins to eat, Freddie's patience fails)
FREDDIE
Hold it! Stop the clock!
(He bangs down the timer on top of the clock)
(Anatoly looks bewildered, holding his spoon a few inches from his mouth)
FREDDIE
What is that?
ANATOLY
What is what?
FREDDIE
(points)
That.
ANATOLY
This is yogurt. Would you like some?
MOLOKOV
We are entitled under the match rules to provide our player with refreshments -
FREDDIE
(jumping to his feet)
You are not entitled to assist your player by delivering him messages -
MOLOKOV
Messages?
ANATOLY
(in Russian to Molokov)
What is he doing?
[phonetically: Shtoe on dzyeh-lai-yet]
FREDDIE
I'm not stupid! I've been watching. Yesterday, 20th move, strawberry; 35th move,
honey. Today, 20th move, banana. Each time just before he changes tack. You're
giving him signals! Strawberry means do this, banana means do that - it's cheating!
MOLOKOV
This is absolutely insane! You are deliberately attempting to sabotage this game because
you are losing -
FREDDIE
(to the Arbiter, who has been maintaining a calm objectivity)
Are you gonna do anything about this?
ARBITER
Mr. Trumper, you are dangerously close to being penalized -
FREDDIE
C'mon you said you were on the case -
(awkward pause)
or are you in on this too?
FLORENCE
Freddie -
FREDDIE
You tell him, Florence!
MOLOKOV
(thumping table as Florence tries to calm Freddie)
I tell him! Unless this ridiculous interruption is penalized -
FREDDIE
(shouting them both down)
Mr. Arbiter! Florence! Take note that unless I receive a full and formal written apology
from the Soviets for their player's unsportsmanlike behavior, and dishonest behavior, I
shall be on the next plane out of this dump and will be taking legal action to have this
match awarded to me by default!
(he turns on several Press Photographers who have rushed in at the end of this outburst
and chases them out, yelling:)
Beat it you jerk-off!
ANATOLY
(in Russian to Molokov)
Keep calm! Let me handle this!
[phonetically: Spakoina! Ya sam raz-byeh-rooss]
(then in English to the Arbiter as the stage is cleared)
So what happens now? You will of course disqualify him -
FLORENCE
For God's sake! This is a matter that can be resolved by rational discussion -
ANATOLY/MOLOKOV
Rational discussion!
(The delegates and observers leave. The chessboard is again indicated as the Quartet
undertake their negotiations. An almost ritual flirtation develops between Florence and
Anatoly)
QUARTET: DECORUM & TRANQUILITY
MOLOKOV
(to Arbiter)
WE WISH, NO MUST, MAKE OUR DISGUST
FOR THIS ABUSE PERFECTLY CLEAR
WE'RE HERE FOR CHESS - ARE THE US?
IF SO WHY FOUL THE ATMOSPHERE?
FLORENCE
I MUST PROTEST - OUR DELEGATION
HAS A HOST OF VALID POINTS TO RAISE
ARBITER
IT'S NOT JUST BLACK AND WHITE
IF I MAY COIN A PHRASE
AS ANY NEUTRAL WOULD ATTEST
FLORENCE
THOUGH WE CONCEDE
(She now sings to Anatoly)
THE FACT YOUR MASTERS BEND THE RULES IS MAYBE NOT YOUR FAULT
IF THEY WITHDRAW THEIR PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSAULT
THEN UNDER PROTEST HE'LL PROCEED.
MOLOKOV
IF YOUR MAN'S SO SWEET
THEN WHY HIS FIGHTING TALK?
IF HE SAYS WE CHEAT
THEN WHY ON EARTH DID HE GO TAKE A WALK?
FLORENCE
I AM NOT SURPRISED HE WANTED FRESHER AIR
ONCE HE REALIZED THERE WAS NO HOPE
OF YOUR GUYS PLAYING FAIR.
FLORENCE/ANATOLY MOLOKOV/ARBITER
HOW SAD IT'S VERY SAD TO SEE
THE ANCIENT AND
TO SEE DISTINGUISHED GAME
THAT USED TO BE
ALL
A MODEL OF DECORUM AND TRANQUILITY
BECOME LIKE ANY OTHER SPORT
A BATTLEGROUND FOR RIVAL IDEOLOGIES
TO SLUG IT OUT WITH GLEE
ANATOLY
(attacking)
I WOULD SAY WITH REGARD TO
HIM IT IS HARD TO
DISPEL
EVER GROWING SUSPICIONS
MY OPPOSITION'S
NOT WELL.
FLORENCE
(defending)
I WOULD HAVE SAID
YOU'D UNDERSTAND THE STRAIN
AND PRESSURE GETTING WHERE HE'S GOT
OR THAT YOU'D SIMPLY CALL HIM HIGHLY-STRUNG AND NOT
IMPLY THAT HE WAS OFF HIS HEAD.
ANATOLY
(flirting)
BUT HOW ON EARTH
CAN SOMEONE HALF AS NICE AND CIVILIZED AS YOU
BE PART OF SUCH A SELF-DESTRUCTIVE POINT OF VIEW
I HOPE HE PAYS YOU WHAT YOU'RE WORTH.
ARBITER
(attacking)
I CALL THIS TUNE
NO ONE'S IMMUNE TO MY POWER
ONCE IN THAT HALL.
MOLOKOV
(blocking)
IN THAT CASE
I MUST ASK YOU
WHY YOU NOW
PRESIDE OVER A BRAWL.
FLORENCE
(to Anatoly)
I'M NOT GETTING RICH
MY ONLY INTEREST
IS IN SOMETHING WHICH
GIVES ME THE CHANCE
OF WORKING WITH THE BEST.
ANATOLY
(to Florence)
I CAN ONLY SAY
I HOPE YOUR DREAM COMES TRUE
TILL THAT FAR OFF DAY
I HOPE YOU COPE
WITH HELPING NUMBER TWO.
FLORENCE/ANATOLY MOLOKOV/ARBITER
HOW SAD IT'S VERY SAD TO SEE
THE ANCIENT AND
TO SEE DISTINGUISHED GAME
THAT USED TO BE
ALL
A MODEL OF DECORUM AND TRANQUILITY
BECOME LIKE ANY OTHER SPORT
A BATTLEGROUND FOR RIVAL IDEOLOGIES
TO SLUG IT OUT WITH GLEE.
(Tempers by now are rising to a pitch)
FLORENCE ARBITER ANATOLY MOLOKOV
IT IS VERY SAD TO IT'S SO SAD TO SAD HOW SAD
SEE SEE A GAME THAT IT IS VERY SAD TO TO SEE
SAD TO SEE A REALLY SHOULD SEE A DIS-
GAME THAT ONCE BE THIS DISTING- TINGUISHED
USED TO GUISHED AND
BE A MODEL LIKE A MODEL OLD GAME THAT GAME THAT
OF DE-
OF CALM AND TRAN- CORUM USED TO, THAT ALWAYS
QUILITY BECOME USED TO BE TRAN- USED TO BE
SAD WHEN IT BE- JUST LIKE ANY QUILITY LIKE A
OTHER
COMES LIKE SPORT A BATTLE- HAS BECOME MODEL
ANY GROUND FOR
OTHER SPORT RIVAL IDE- BATTLEGROUND TO OF DE-
JUST OLOGIES SLUG IT OUT CORUM
A BATTLE- TO SLUG WITH GLEE
GROUND, A BATTLE- SLUG IT OUT ANY OTHER SPORT AND OF
GROUND, FOR IDE- SLUG IT OUT LIKE A BATTLE- PURE TRAN-
GROUND
OLOGIES IT IS VERY SAD TO SEE QUILITY
IT'S VERY SAD SAD SO SAD HOW IT IS VERY
TO SEE THE TO SEE SAD SAD TO SEETHE
ANCIENT AND DIS- OLD DISTIN-
TINGUISHED IT'S A GUISHED
GAME THAT GAME THAT
USED TO BE A BATTLEGROUND FOR SEE A USED TO BE A
MODEL OF DECORUM RIVAL IDE- MODEL OF DECORUM MODELOF
TRAN-
AND TRANQUIL- OLOGIES AND TRANQUIL- QUILITY
ITY BE- ITY BE
COMES LIKE ANY IT BECOMES JUST LIKE ANY WHEN IT BE-
OTHER A OTHER
SPORT BATTLEGROUND FOR SPORT HOW SAD COMES
ABATTLE
LIKE A IDEOLOGIES TO SEE GROUND THENIT
BATTLEGROUND A BATTLE- HOW THE GAME IS VE-
FOR RIVAL GROUND THAT RY
IDEOLOGIES IT'S VERY SAD USED TO BE SAD,IT'S VERY
SAD
IT'S VERY SAD TO SEE A GAME TRANWUILITY WHEN THIS
ANCIENT GAME
BE-
SO SAD TO SEE A BATTLEGROUND A BATTLEGROUND COMES A
BATTLEGROUND
ALL
TO SLUG IT OUT WITH GLEE
ARBITER
This crisis is the fault of both parties. If both players are not back at the board within 36
hours, the match will be cancelled and the title put into abeyance!
(disgruntled delegates depart)
TOURNAMENT SONG - reprise (Optional)
THE TWO CHILDREN
DON'T YOU FIND IT RATHER TOUCHING TO BEHOLD
THE GAME THAT CAME IN FROM THE COLD
SEEN FOR WHAT IT IS, RELIGION PLUS FINESSE
COUNTRIES, CLASSES, CREEDS AS ONE, IN LOVE OF CHESS
ARGUMENT 1
ARBITER
ISN'T IT STRANGE THE COMPLICATIONS
PEOPLE CREATE IN SITUATIONS
WHEN THERE'S NO NEED FOR ANY KIND OF
IMBROGLIO
BUT IN THE END THEY ALL SEE REASON
I DIDN'T WANT TO PUT THE SQUEEZE ON
BUT THERE ARE TIMES WHEN SOMEONE FORCEFUL
HAS TO SAY NO
(to the Children)
They all think they're part of some sophisticated international battle of wills and
personality
I SEE NOTHING OTHER THAN A SIMPLE BOARD GAME...
(exit the Arbiter with Children)
Scene Five: The American Suite
(Freddie is calmly playing computer chess as Florence storms in. Hotel maids discreetly
tidy the room and the bed.)
ARGUMENT 2
FLORENCE
YOU WANT TO LOSE YOUR ONLY FRIEND?
WELL, KEEP IT UP YOU'RE DOING FINE
WHY THIS HUMILIATION?
WHY TREAT ME LIKE A FOOL?
I'VE TAKEN SHIT FOR MONTHS, FOR YEARS
AND I WON'T TAKE IT ANYMORE!
(Florence dismissed the maids. Freddie plays on regardless)
HOW MANY WOMEN WOULD DRIVE THEMSELVES CRAZY
BY ARGUING OVER A GAME OF CHESS?
NOT VERY MANY BUT THE WAY THINGS ARE GOING
THERE'LL SOON BE ONE LESS!
FREDDIE
DON'T BELIEVE YOU, SWEETIE PIE -
FLORENCE
LISTEN, FREDDIE, I TOO HAD AMBITIONS.
HOW DID I GET WAYLAID?
HOW CAN SUCH A FLOWER
A SENSITIVE SOUL, A DELICATE CHILD
WIND UP AS A NURSEMAID, RESPECTABLY SET
FOR THE GLITTERING PRIZES?
INSTEAD OF WHICH I LANDED YOU -
FREDDIE
YOU'LL GET YOUR PRIZES!
I'M NINETY PERCENT OF THE WAY TO THE TOP OF THE HEAP
FLORENCE
THANKS - 10% - YOU GOT ME CHEAP
FREDDIE
(speaking)
No, no Florence. I meant we are ninety percent of the way.
FLORENCE
HOW MANY WOMEN - ARTICULATE WOMEN
WITH SOMETHING TO SHOUT ABOUT - SPEND THEIR TIME
PLAYING A GAME IN WHICH SILENCE IS GOLDEN
AND SPEAKING A CRIME?
FREDDIE
MAYBE IF HE MOVED HIS KING...?
FLORENCE
ALL OF MY STRUGGLES FOR QUALIFICATION -
MY NIGHTS WITH GOETHE AND PROUST
RECKLESSLY ABANDONED
FOR YOU! WHO THINKS CHEKHOV IS KING TO G3
AND JOYCE MY COLLEGE ROOMMATE!
THEN WHEN I SHOW YOU A MOVE YOU CAN'T FATHOM
I HAVE TO ADMIT IT FEELS GREAT -
(She makes a move on Freddie's board: the very move he'd been searching for)
FREDDIE
GREAT NEWS FOR CHESS FANCIERS
HEY, THAT'S HOW HE DID IT
YEAH, THAT'S HOW THAT COMMIE JERK PLAYS!
FLORENCE
MAYBE I DESERVE A RAISE!
FREDDIE
I'M ONLY TEASING SOVIETS
WITH GENTLE BONHOMIE
AND YOU'VE A BETTER REASON TO BE ANTI-THEM THAN ME
FLORENCE
THERE'S A TIME AND THERE'S A PLACE
FREDDIE
WELL HOW ABOUT HERE AND NOW? ARE YOU FOR ME OR FOR THEM?
FLORENCE
THERE'S A TIME AND THERE'S A PLACE.
FREDDIE
1956 - BUDAPEST IS RISING
1968 - PRAGUE AND MR. DUBCEK
1968 - SOME OF US REMEMBER.
I'D HAVE THOUGHT YOU'D SUPPORT
ANY ATTACK ON THESE PEOPLE
ON THE PEOPLE WHO RAN
MINDLESSLY OVER YOUR CHILDHOOD
APPEARANCES ALTERED
BUT MOST OF THE NAMES ARE THE SAME
FLORENCE
(agitated, but controlled)
1968 - HISTORY AND BLACKMAIL
TRY ANOTHER LINE - THAT'S ALL IN THE PAST NOW
FREDDIE
THEY SEE CHESS AS A WAR
PLAYING WITH PAWNS LIKE YOUR FATHER.
IF YOU WALK OUT ON ME
YOU'RE REALLY BETRAYING HIS HONOR
WERE HE ALIVE NOW
HE'D SURELY BE DYING OF SHAME
FLORENCE
YOU KNOW THAT THERE'S NOTHING I'VE DONE
THAT HE'D BE ASHAMED OF IN MY WHOLE LIFE!
WHY'D YOU HAVE TO DO THIS TO ME?
(Freddie walks out, slamming the door in her face)
NOBODY'S SIDE
FLORENCE
WHAT'S GOING ON AROUND ME
IS BARELY MAKING SENSE
I NEED SOME EXPLANATIONS FAST
I SEE MY PRESENT PARTNER
IN THE IMPERFECT TENSE
AND I DON'T SEE HOW WE CAN LAST
I FEEL I NEED A CHANGE OF CAST
MAYBE I'M ON NOBODY'S SIDE
AND WHEN HE GIVES ME REASONS
TO JUSTIFY EACH MOVE
THEY'RE GETTING HARDER TO BELIEVE
I KNOW THIS CAN'T CONTINUE
I'VE STILL A LOT TO PROVE
THERE MUST BE MORE I COULD ACHIEVE
BUT I DON'T HAVE THE NERVE TO LEAVE
(Various career women emerge from their hotel rooms)
FLORENCE & WOMEN
EVERYBODY'S PLAYING THE GAME
BUT NOBODY'S RULES ARE THE SAME
NOBODY'S ON NOBODY'S SIDE
BETTER LEARN TO GO IT ALONE
RECOGNIZE YOU'RE OUT ON YOUR OWN
NOBODY'S ON NOBODY'S SIDE
FLORENCE
THE ONE I SHOULD NOT THINK OF
KEEPS ROLLING THROUGH MY MIND
AND I DON'T WANT TO LET THAT GO
NO LOVER'S EVER FAITHFUL
NO CONTRACT TRULY SIGNED
THERE'S NOTHING CERTAIN LEFT TO KNOW
AND HOW THE CRACKS BEGIN TO SHOW!
FLORENCE & WOMEN
NEVER MAKE A PROMISE OR PLAN
TAKE A LITTLE LOVE WHERE YOU CAN
NOBODY'S ON NOBODY'S SIDE
NEVER STAY TOO LONG IN YOUR BED
NEVER LOSE YOUR HEART, USE YOUR HEAD
NOBODY'S ON NOBODY'S SIDE
NEVER TAKE A STRANGER'S ADVICE
NEVER LET A FRIEND FOOL YOU TWICE
NOBODY'S ON NOBODY'S SIDE
NEVER BE THE FIRST TO BELIEVE
NEVER BE THE LAST TO DECEIVE
NOBODY'S ON NOBODY'S SIDE
NEVER LEAVE A MOMENT TOO SOON
NEVER WASTE A HOT AFTERNOON
NOBODY'S ON NOBODY'S SIDE
NEVER STAY A MINUTE TOO LONG
DON'T FORGET THE BEST WILL GO WRONG
NOBODY'S ON NOBODY'S SIDE
BETTER LEARN TO GO IT ALONE
RECOGNIZE YOU'RE OUT ON YOUR OWN
NOBODY'S ON NOBODY'S SIDE
Scene transition:
Scene Six: THE RUSSIAN SUITE
(Chess board set up as per American suite. Anatoly attempting to relax. Svetlana
surrounded by duty-free shopping. Molokov partaking of room service)
SVETLANA
The man is utterly mad, Anatoly - you're playing a lunatic!
ANATOLY
That's the problem. He's a brilliant lunatic. You can't tell which way he'll jump or why.
When he's playing chess or when he throws a fit - he's impossible to analyse; you can't
dissect him, you can't predict him - which of course means he's not a lunatic at all.
MOLOKOV
WHAT WE'VE JUST SEEN'S A PATHETIC DISPLAY
FROM A MAN WHO'S BEGINNING TO CRACK
HE'S AFRAID - I'VE SEEN AMERICANS DO THIS BEFORE
WE'RE ON THE RIGHT TRACK!
ANATOLY
NONSENSE!
WHY DO MY SECONDS ALWAYS WANT TO BELIEVE
THIRD-RATE PROPAGANDA?
MOLOKOV
MY FRIEND - PLEASE RELAX; WE'RE ALL ON YOUR SIDE
YOU KNOW HOW YOU NEED US
ANATOLY
I DON'T NEED MY ARMY OF SO-CALLED "ADVISORS"
AND HELPERS TO TELL ME
THE MAN WHO'S REVITALISED CHESS SINGLE-HANDED
IS MORE OR LESS OUT OF HIS BRAIN
WHEN IT'S VERY CLEAR HE'S SANE
MOLOKOV
LISTEN, WE DON'T UNDERESTIMATE TRUMPER
WE WON'T GET CAUGHT IN THAT TRAP
AFTER ALL, WINNING OR LOSING REFLECTS ON US ALL -
ANATOLY
OH DON'T GIVE ME THAT CRAP!
I WIN - NO ONE ELSE DOES
AND I TAKE THE RAP IF I LOSE
MOLOKOV
IT'S NOT QUITE THAT SIMPLE
THE WHOLE WORLD'S TUNED IN
WE'RE ON DISPLAY
WE'RE NOT MERELY SPORTSMEN -
ANATOLY
OH PLEASE DON'T START SPOUTING THAT OLD PARTY LINE
YES I KNOW IT'S YOUR JOB BUT
YOU BETTER STOP PULLING SUCH GAMES PRETTY QUICK
OR YOU'RE SAVING THIS MATCH AND YOUR SKIN
THAT IS IF YOU WANT TO WIN!
SVETLANA
I don't want to win. Not if it does this to you - to us.
ANATOLY
(almost shouting)
Does what to me - to us?
SVETLANA
You can't see?
ANATOLY
I'm sorry. But it would be madness to let twenty years of work be destroyed at the final
hurdle because of this megalomaniac's antics.
SVETLANA
And five years marriage -
ANATOLY
It will all be fine once this match is over. I promise.
SVETLANA
If we still have a marriage?
MOLOKOV
If we still have a match!
ANATOLY
(to Molokov)
Well, make sure we do! What the hell else do you have to do?
(pause)
Silly question -
MOLOKOV
You're becoming as crazy as Trumper. Anatoly, relax. Do your job - I'll do mine.
Svetlana -
(Molokov and Svetlana leave)
WHERE I WANT TO BE
ANATOLY
WHO NEEDS A DREAM?
WHO NEEDS AMBITION?
WHO'D BE THE FOOL
IN MY POSITION?
ONCE I HAD DREAMS
NOW THEY'RE OBSESSIONS
HOPES BECOME NEEDS
LOVERS POSSESSIONS
THEN THEY MOVE IN
OH SO DISCREETLY
SLOWLY AT FIRST
SMILING TOO SWEETLY
I OPENED DOORS
THEY WALKED RIGHT THROUGH THEM
CALLED ME THEIR FRIEND
I HARDLY KNEW THEM
NOW I'M WHERE I WANT TO BE AND WHO I WANT TO BE
AND DOING WHAT I ALWAYS SAID I WOULD
AND YET I FEEL I HAVEN'T WON AT ALL
RUNNING FOR MY LIFE AND NEVER LOOKING BACK
IN CASE THERE'S SOMEONE RIGHT BEHIND
TO SHOOT ME DOWN AND SAY HE ALWAYS KNEW I'D FALL
WHEN THE CRAZY WHEEL SLOWS DOWN
WHERE WILL I BE? BACK WHERE I STARTED
DON'T GET ME WRONG
I'M NOT COMPLAINING
TIMES HAVE BEEN GOOD
FAST, ENTERTAINING
BUT WHAT'S THE POINT?
IF I'M CONCEALING
MOST OF MY THOUGHTS
ALL OF MY FEELINGS
NOW I'M...
(Various well-attired male guests emerge from their hotel rooms)
ANATOLY & MEN
..WHERE I WANT TO BE AND WHO I WANT TO BE
AND DOING WHAT I ALWAYS SAID I WOULD
AND YET I FEEL I HAVEN'T WON AT ALL
RUNNING FOR MY LIFE AND NEVER LOOKING BACK
IN CASE THERE'S SOMEONE RIGHT BEHIND
TO SHOOT ME DOWN AND SAY HE ALWAYS KNEW I'D FALL
ANATOLY
WHEN THE CRAZY WHEEL SLOWS DOWN
WHERE WILL I BE?
BACK WHERE I STARTED.
Scene Seven: THE TERRACE BAR
(Cocktail Hour. Arbiter at the piano, various nationalities assembled. The Children play
chess)
COCKTAIL CHORUS
CHORUS
(Music: slow foxtrot arrangement of "One Night in Bangkok")
ASK ANY CONOISSEURS OF HUMAN NATURE
THIS IS A MELTING POT YOU CAN'T IGNORE
WITH NO DISTURBANCE FROM THE LEGISLATURE
THE PLAYERS MOVE AS THOUSANDS HAVE BEFORE
AS WAS, IS NOW, AND SHALL BE, EVERMORE
THIS IS A TERRACE OF A THOUSAND STORIES
EACH ONE SO TYPICAL OF HUMANKIND
A BAR WHERE ONE IN EVERY THREE OR FOUR IS
YOURS FOR THE ASKING IF YOU'RE SO INCLINED
ONE IN A HUNDRED COULD BE QUITE A FIND
(Walter and Molokov emerge from the crowd)
WALTER
So everybody's friends again, are we, Mr. Molokov? Do we owe this to your charm or
to your brutality?
MOLOKOV
Let us say that I am at least quietly confident of a little diplomatic triumph. We must not
count our chickens, however. I have arranged with Miss Vassy for a private meeting
between the two antagonists. I think they will all see sense. Not that Anatoly has ever
done anything else. But he is not going to give Trumper the satisfaction of rising to his
bait. We are civilised.
WALTER
Well my television boys will be relieved. They weren't looking forward to explaining to
their sponsors that, unless they're in the yogurt business, their products were off the
screen.
MOLOKOV
What exactly is your business here, Mr. de Coursey?
WALTER
Really, Alexander! I'm here to insure that the commercial benefits of this circus are
maximized on behalf of various - er - clients.
MOLOKOV
(chuckles)
Yes. And I am the Pope. Tell me about Florence Vassy.
WALTER
You know all about Florence Vassy, your holiness.
MOLOKOV
I know that her father disappeared after that incident in Prague in 1968...
WALTER
Incident!
MOLOKOV
So I know she was smuggled out of Czechoslovakia when she was five, back when you
and I knew exactly where we stood, eh, Mr. de Courcey?
(chuckles)
I'm already nostalgic for the old cold war days. This new "openness" is such a strain.
WALTER
A rather cynical attitude, comrade.
MOLOKOV
It's much easier to deal with opposite numbers when you know you can't trust them.
WALTER
So that's all you know about Florence? Fled Prague in '68?
MOLOKOV
Of course not. I know she was brought up in England, and I know she met Trumper
when she was at University in America. But is she with him because she likes chess? A
woman liking chess that much?
(laughs)
Does she sleep with him?
WALTER
(as Florence enters)
Why don't you ask her yourself?
FLORENCE
How refreshing to see East and West in such harmony. Where is Anatoly, Mr.
Molokov? I didn't agree to this meeting out of the goodness of my heart.
MOLOKOV
Well where's Freddie, Miss Vassy?
WALTER
Do I detect a less than promising start to your diplomatic triumph, Alexander? Two no-
shows?
MOLOKOV
Not at all, - er - Walter.
(Anatoly enters - Molokov seems aware of this without even looking at him.)
We may have to wait a while for the tardy Mr. Trumper, however.
(He notices Florence's locket)
Ah, this is very pretty. Perhaps some of him is with us already. A lock of his hair,
perhaps?
(A concierge approaches Molokov and hands him a note. He reads it. Walter greeets
Anatoly.)
Excuse me, I have to make a telephone call.
(Molokov exits. Walter hands Anatoly an envelope.)
WALTER
(to Anatoly)
Your interview details. It's all there.
ANATOLY
(carefully)
Yes, of course.
WALTER
(to both Anatoly and Florence)
Well, will you excuse me? I hope the discussions with Freddie go well.
FLORENCE
(too late)
Just a moment....
(But she and Anatoly are now alone. The cocktail crowd have moved upstage to admire
the evening sky. The Arbiter reprises the chorus, accompanying himself at the piano)
COCKTAIL CHORUS - reprise
ARBITER
THIS IS A TERRACE OF A THOUSAND STORIES
EACH ONE SO TYPICAL OF HUMANKIND
A BAR WHERE ONE IN EVERY THREE OR FOUR IS
THERE FOR THE ASKING IF YOU'RE SO INCLINED
ONE IN A HUNDRED COULD BE QUITE A FIND
(The Arbiter and pianist exit. Anatoly is engrossed in Walter's document.)
TERRACE DUET
FLORENCE
(to herself)
THIS IS THE ONE SITUATION
I WANTED MOST TO AVOID
NOTHING I SAY WILL CONVINCE HIM THIS ISN'T A TRICK.
ANATOLY
A DRINK ON A CLEAR MOONLIT NIGHT - I RELAX, SHE SMILES
THERE'S SOMETHING PECULIAR GOING ON.
FLORENCE
SO, THROUGH NO FAULT OF MY OWN, I'M IN IT
WAY OVER MY HEAD
EMBARRASSED, OUTNUMBERED, MAROONED.
ANATOLY
NOW SHE CAN'T BE WORKING FOR THEM - I MEAN US -
SHE SEEMS SO VERY STRAIGHTFORWARD - BUT WHERE IS HE?
FLORENCE
HE HAS TO SHOW UP
IT CAN'T COME TO NOTHING -
PERHAPS IT CAN.
ANATOLY
MAYBE HE'S SCARED
BUT HE DIDN'T SEEM SCARED IN THE GAME.
FLORENCE
OH, I JUST COULDN'T CARE LESS
HE CAN GO RIGHT AHEAD GO AND WRECK HIS CAREER
I KNOW I'VE DONE MY BEST.
ANATOLY
WELL AT LEAST SHE'S A GOOD-LOOKING SPY
FLORENCE
WHAT IF MY RUSSIAN FRIEND THINKS THAT MY PLANS
HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH THE CHESS?
IF I DON'T SAY SOMETHING AND SOON
HE'LL GO - MAYBE I'M ON NOBODY'S SIDE!
(st last he approaches her and takes her hand for a dance)
ANATOLY
LISTEN, I HATE TO BREAK UP THE MOOD
HOW DO YOU SAY, BEGIN THE BEGUINE
HAVEN'T YOU NOTICED WE ARE ONE CHARACTER SHORT
IN THIS IDYLLIC, WELL-PRODUCED SCENE?
FLORENCE
(dancing with Anatoly)
HOW COULD I NOT, MISS VASSY REGRETS
ANYTHING GOES WITH YOUR OPPONENT.
ANATOLY
NEVER MIND HIM - I HAVEN'T MISSED HIM SO FAR
MAYBE IT WON'T DO ANY HARM
TO STRUGGLE ON WITHOUT HIS CHARM.
BOTH
(More seriously as Walter enters, unseen, and hovers US)
FUNNY HOW ALL AT ONCE I FEEL
NOTHING ABOUT THIS MEETING MATTERS ANYMORE
(The light-hearted dancing turns into a long passionate embrace)
COCKTAIL CHORUS
THIS IS A TERRACE OF A THOUSAND STORIES
EACH ONE SO TYPICAL OF HUMANKIND
THEIRS IS NO DIFFERENT, BUT THEY DON'T MIND!
(The couple emerge from their embrace. Florence almost in shock. Anatoly obviously
entranced. During the following the Chorus disperse to their rooms or each others'.)
FLORENCE
THIS IS THE ONE SITUATION
I WANTED MOST TO AVOID
ANATOLY
MY DEAR OPPONENT -
I REALLY CAN'T IMAGINE WHY
FLORENCE
YOU THINK I'M THE DANGEROUS KIND --
WELL, I AM!
ANATOLY
YOU -- YOU'RE NOT DANGEROUS --
WHO COULD THINK THAT OF YOU?
FLORENCE
YOU -- YOU ARE SO STRANGE --
WHY CAN'T YOU BE WHAT YOU OUGHT TO BE?
FLORENCE & ANATOLY
YOU SHOULD BE SCHEMING, INTRIGUING,
TOO CLEVER BY HALF
ANATOLY
I HAVE TO HAND IT TO YOU --
FOR YOU'VE MANAGED TO MAKE ME
FORGET WHY I EVER AGREED TO THIS FARCE
FLORENCE & ANATOLY
I DON'T KNOW WHY I CAN'T THINK OF ANYTHING
I WOULD RATHER DO
THAN BE WASTING MY TIME WITH SOMEONE LIKE YOU.
(As song ends, Molokov and Freddie enter. Molokov is checking some papers but
Freddie witnesses the extended kiss between Florence and Anatoly. Leaving Molokov,
he confronts the duo.)
FREDDIE
WHO'D EVER THINK IT?
SUCH A VERY PRETTY SETTING!
TELL ME WHAT'S THE BETTING
VERY PRETTY PLOTTING TOO?
NO MATTER -
(indicating Molokov)
WE'VE DONE ALL YOUR WORK FOR YOU
(He approaches Florence)
WHO'D EVER GUESS IT?
DAUGHTER IN COLLABORATION
WITH THE VERY NATION
GAVE HER FATHER THIRD DEGREE!
WHERE'S DADDY? DEAD OR IN THE KGB?
(Molokov reacts to Freddie's final words. Florence storms off. Freddie descends on
Anatoly, intercepted by Walter. Molokov takes Anatoly aside)
Scene transition.
PART 2 Link here.