Chess, Waterside Musical Society, Waterside Theatre, Holbury.

A BRAVE decision to put on one of the lesser performed musicals is successfully borne out by this production of Chess.

Set in the Cold War period, the plot uses international chess players as pawns in the US/Russia espionage dealings.

The musical was full of colour and disciplined performances by the members of the chorus. Chris Wortley (Frederick) plays the arrogant American chess champion pitted against a relaxed Russian (David Putley) in the first act. Their relationship changes as time passes, and this was handled well. David Putley was in fine voice throughout.

Lisa Phillips (Florence) was the love interest and conveyed the extremes of emotion effectively. Brian Reeves and Robin Watton were convincing as spy chiefs and sang well.

Musical director Lesley Clayton is to be congratulated on the balance achieved between orchestra and singers and the fine choral work of the show.

One niggle was the on-stage photographer who almost reached a stroboscopic level in some scenes.

Well worth seeing - runs till Saturday.