The new Broadway production of the musical Chess by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus premiered on November 17, 2025, receiving mixed reviews. The singing and music are praised, but the story is called flat by critics. Benny Andersson hopes this version addresses past script issues.
The musical Chess, written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, got a new chance on Broadway in New York on November 17, 2025. The premiere marks an attempt at revenge after the disastrous 1988 production, which was panned and closed after just four months.
Critics agree that the music and singing are flawless. According to Dagens Nyheter, the verdict is: 'Good singing but a script that leaves something to be desired. That's the critics' judgment on the new version of Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson's musical Chess on Broadway.' They describe the story as flat, despite high expectations for the updated version.
Benny Andersson, who composed the music with Björn Ulvaeus, expresses optimism in an SVT interview. 'They've tried to fix some of the problems that existed with the script,' he says, hoping for a successful revenge. Kulturnyheterna was on site during the premiere and noted Andersson's positive attitude.
The background to the new production involves addressing the script issues that plagued the original. Despite the challenges from 1988, this is seen as an exciting new chapter for the classic musical, originally inspired by chess and Cold War themes.