CHESS, The Musical

Tokyo International Players (TIP) presents "CHESS, The Musical," directed by Jonah Hagans. With music by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus (of ABBA fame) and lyrics by Tim Rice ("The Lion King," etc.), based on an idea by Tim Rice, this highly acclaimed musical develops the ancient and distinguished game of chess into a metaphor for romantic rivalries and East-West political intrigue.

From Tyrol to Thailand, the players, lovers, politicians, CIA, and KGB make their moves to the pulse of this monumental rock-opera score. Several numbers, including "One Night in Bangkok" and "I Know Him So Well," are international hits.

At Theater Sun-mall (Shinjuku Gyoenmae Station on the Marunouchi line), Thursday, October 2 and Friday, October 3 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, October 4 and Sunday, October 5 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are 4,000 yen with advance reservation, 4,500 yen at the door. Japanese audio translation (earpiece rental) will be available.

Visit www.tokyoplayers.org to reserve tickets.