Lea Michele Announces Dates Off From Chess on Broadway

The Broadway revival of 'Chess' has garnered attention for its ambitious attempt to blend a Cold War-era narrative with the musical stylings of ABBA. While the leads, including Nicholas Christopher and Aaron Tveit alongside Lea Michele, have been praised for their performances, the production itself has received mixed reviews. Some critics point to an unevenness in the show's overall execution, despite strong vocal performances. The musical delves into the political tensions between the U.S. and USSR, using a chess championship as a metaphor for their struggle. The absence of Lea Michele on certain dates provides an opportunity for her understudies to showcase their talent and for audiences to see a different interpretation of the character Florence Vassey.

December 14 and 16, 2025; January 23, 2026; February 18–22; April 1–5; and the matinee on April 11, 2026.

Katerina Papacostas and Samantha Pollino will cover the role of Florence Vassey.

At the Imperial Theatre on Broadway.

It's a musical set during the Cold War, revolving around a chess championship between American and Soviet players.

If you're planning to see 'Chess' on Broadway, be aware of Lea Michele's scheduled absences. This is a chance to see the talented understudies, Katerina Papacostas and Samantha Pollino, in the role of Florence Vassey. Despite mixed reviews, the show offers powerhouse vocal performances and a compelling narrative set against the backdrop of the Cold War.

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