Rozsa Center for Performing Arts

Press release

HOUGHTON – Michigan Tech Theatre is proud to present the musical Chess each night through April 15 at the Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts. All shows start at 7:30 p.m.

This highly anticipated event will captivate audiences with its unique blend of drama, music and dance. Tickets are available online or at the Rozsa Box Office, $20 for adults, $5 for youth under 18, and free for Michigan Tech Students with a valid student ID.

Chess is a beloved musical that has captivated audiences since its debut in 1986.

“Set in the final stages of the Cold War…[the] international competition provides a window of opportunity for players to escape the oppressive regime of the U.S.S.R.,” says Director Trish Helsel. “The musical is an allegory where the players are “pawns” in a political war between the U.S. and the U.S.S.R. “

The production features a book by Richard Nelson and lyrics by Tim Rice, and an incredible score by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, members of ABBA, and includes the hit songs, “One Night in Bangkok” and “Heaven Help My Heart.” “The music…helps to put the audience smack in the middle of the 80s,” says Helsel. Both entertaining and provocative, the show’s language and content are intended for mature audiences.

The cast and crew-nearly 100 people from Michigan Tech and the Keweenaw community have been hard at work preparing for this production, and audiences can expect to be blown away by the set, costumes, and lighting designed to enhance the show’s stunning visuals, driving music, and compelling story.

“The show is more relevant now when we can see the parallels between the Hungarian uprising of 1956 against the U.S.S.R. and the recent invasion of Ukraine by Russia,” reflects Helsel.

Tickets for the public are available now at mtu.edu/rozsa, 906-487-1906, or at the Rozsa Box Office from 11-1 p.m. Monday through Friday or for 1 hour before shows. Michigan Tech Students can reserve free Experience Tech tickets online, and Student Rush will be available at the door.