This is a very interesting production in that it is the full London version, done on a small stage with a small cast and no sets. For an amateur group, the performances are excellent. There are a few interesting touches, including a mini-tableau of the Hungarian Revolution used during Freddie and Florence's "You Wanna Lose Your Only Friend" confrontation, when he sings "1956 - Budapest is rising..." Remarkably, they have a great orchestra. It might be recorded, except the tempi of some songs are changed, which makes it unlikely. The show comes off quite well despite the lack of extensive costuming, space and sets.
The only scenery, per se, are three door-sized drops which transform from chess squares to arched windows to Bangkok neon to simple walls. A few chairs and tables are the only set pieces and yet, the production manages to take us from Merano to Bangkok, from hotel room to chess arena.
Anyone with photos and any further information about this production is encouraged to contact the author of the website.
| |