Chess Tickets at Imperial Theatre

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The Cold War rock opera by the creators of ABBA returns to Broadway at the Imperial Theatre. Strategy, passion, and power.

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Tony Award® winner Aaron Tveit (Moulin Rouge!), Emmy® Award nominee Lea Michele (Funny Girl, Glee), and breakout powerhouse Nicholas Christopher (Sweeney Todd, Hamilton) star on Broadway in Chess - the iconic musical where power and passion collide, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

It’s America versus Russia at the World Chess Championship, where the espionage and romance are as complicated and exhilarating as the game itself. For the two players and the woman torn between them, everything—personal, professional, and political—is at risk… and nobody’s rules are the same.

With a legendary score by ABBA’s Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, lyrics by Emmy, Grammy®, Oscar® and Tony winner Tim Rice (Evita, Jesus Christ Superstar), a new book by Emmy winner Danny Strong (Dopesick, The Butler), and direction by Tony winner Michael Mayer (Spring Awakening, Hedwig and the Angry Inch), Chess is the must-see Broadway event of the season.

Good to know

Know before you go: Show details
Categories: Musical, Drama, Romance, Stars on stage, Critics' choice
Audience: Suitable for 12+ yrs
Theater name: Imperial Theatre
Find the best seats in the house with the Imperial Theatre seating plan
Theater facilities: Restrooms, lobby bar with concessions, merchandise counter
Theater accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible, accessible restrooms, assistive listening devices upon request
Dress code: Smart casual
Cast & crew
Leading roles: Aaron Tveit as Freddie Trumper, Lea Michele as Florence Vassy, Nicholas Christopher as Anatoly Sergievsky, Hannah Cruz as Svetlana, Bryce Pinkham as The Arbiter, Bradley Dean as Molokov, and Sean Allan Krill as Walter
Music & lyrics: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, and Tim Rice
Book: Danny Strong
Director: Michael Mayer
Choreographer: Lorin Latarro
Music supervisor: Brian Usifer
Music director: Ian Weinberger
Set designer: David Rockwell
Costume designer: Tom Broecker
Lighting designer: Kevin Adams
Sound designer: John Shivers
Video designer: Peter Nigrini
Additional info
This show is suitable for ages 12 years and above. Children under the age of 4 years will not be permitted inside the theater.
Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!
Most theaters are air-conditioned year-round, so it can get a bit chilly. Bring a light jacket just in case.
Frequently asked questions about Chess
Q: How much do Chess Broadway tickets cost?
A: Prices vary depending on your choice of seats and show dates.
Q: Where is Chess playing in New York?
A: The musical is playing at the Imperial Theatre in New York.
Q: How long is the performance?
A: The show lasts for about 2 hours and 40 minutes, including one intermission.
Q: What is Chess about?
A: It follows two elite chess players from rival nations during the Cold War, blending political rivalry with personal relationships.
Q: Who wrote the music for Chess?
A: The music was written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus of ABBA, with lyrics by Tim Rice.
Q: Is this the original Broadway production?
A: This is a new Broadway revival with a revised book by Danny Strong.
Q: What are the most famous songs in the Chess musical?
A: Popular songs include One Night in Bangkok, Anthem, I Know Him So Well, and Nobody’s Side. You can listen to the album here.
Q: Is Chess suitable for first-time Broadway audiences?
A: Yes, especially for viewers interested in political drama, classic musicals, or ABBA’s music.
Q: Does the show focus heavily on chess knowledge?
A: No, chess works as a metaphor; the story centers on politics, relationships, and ambition.
Visitor guidelines: Visitor Guidelines for Chess
Arrival and Entry
Arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time. Present your mobile ticket at the entrance. Late arrivals may not be admitted until a suitable break in the performance.
During the Performance
Mobile phones must be switched off or set to silent. Photography, recording, and use of electronic devices are not permitted during the performance. Unwrapping candy or making noise is discouraged out of respect for performers and other audience members.
Accessibility
Most Broadway theaters offer wheelchair-accessible seating, assistive listening devices, and accessible restrooms. Contact the box office in advance to arrange specific accommodations. Service animals are welcome.