Aaron Tveit Ignites Broadway with Sensual ‘Chess‘ Revival
New York, NY – October 12, 2023 – Aaron Tveit is drawing rave reviews for his performance in the current revival of the musical Chess, now playing at the Ahmanson Theater in Los Angeles before a planned Broadway transfer. The production, directed by Michael Arden, is generating buzz for its modern staging and Tveit’s intensely charismatic portrayal of Freddie, the American chess champion entangled in a Cold War love triangle.
The revival marks a significant moment for the 1984 rock opera, originally conceived by Tim Rice and Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus of ABBA. While Chess enjoyed initial success, its complex political themes and unconventional structure have presented challenges for subsequent productions. Arden’s reimagining, coupled with Tveit’s star power, aims to introduce the show to a new generation while reinvigorating its appeal for longtime fans. The production’s emphasis on the characters’ emotional vulnerabilities and the simmering sexual tension between them has been particularly noted by critics, with Tveit’s performance frequently described as magnetic and unexpectedly sensual.
tveit, known for his roles in Moulin Rouge! The Musical and Next to Normal, brings a vulnerability and raw energy to Freddie that elevates the character beyond the typical brooding hero. “It’s a really interesting character to sink your teeth into,” Tveit told The Cut in a recent interview. “He’s flawed, he’s brilliant, he’s self-destructive, and he’s deeply in love.” The production’s choreography and lighting further amplify the show’s inherent sensuality, creating a visually arresting and emotionally charged experience.
The Chess revival is currently scheduled to run through November 19th at the Ahmanson Theatre, with plans to move to Broadway in the spring of 2024. Tickets are available through Telecharge and the Ahmanson Theatre website. The production’s success could signal a renewed interest in ambitious, musically complex revivals on Broadway, and further solidify Tveit’s position as one of the stage’s leading men.
