Dannevirke: Chess moves on the dance floor

Melissa Martin is relishing the chance to direct and choreograph the Dannevirke Theatre Company's major production of Chess. Photo / Christine McKay

When Dannevirke's Melissa Martin danced in Chess in Palmerston North 21 years ago, she fell in love with the musical.

And it has been her dream to bring it to the stage in Dannevirke.

Now that dream is about to be realised as Martin will direct and choreograph the Dannevirke Theatre Company's production of Chess in the town hall next April.

"I was just 16 when I was in the Manawatu Theatre Society's production of Chess in 1994 and it's my favourite show, a great rock opera," she said. "People may not know the show itself well but I'm sure two of the songs, One Night in Bangkok and I Know Him So Well, will be instantly recognised."

Martin, a busy mum who runs her own dance studio, told the Dannevirke News having the opportunity to be involved with Chess was "just fantastic."

"Even now, 21 years on, I can put on a CD and know all the words to the songs without thinking," she said. "It's cool."

The music for Chess was written by Benny Andersson and Bjrn Ulvaeus, formerly of ABBA, with lyrics by Tim Rice. The story involves a politically driven, Cold War-era chess tournament between two men - an American grandmaster and a Soviet grandmaster - and their fight over a woman who manages one and falls in love with the other.

The Dannevirke Theatre Company production will feature a live orchestra, the first for a long time in local theatre.

The orchestra will include drums, electric guitar, strings, bass, electric keyboards, brass and woodwind instruments. And although opening night is not until April 15 next year, it is now time to put your hand up to be part of the orchestra which needs to be established by September.

There will be a pre-audition evening at the Fountain Theatre on December 3, with auditions the following week, December 6-12.

With a cast of 50 there are spots for seven principals, and an ensemble of between 20 and 30, with cameo roles for some in the ensemble - with between six to 10 lead dancers, both male and female. Miss Martin is looking for cast members from high school years and upwards.

-It's time to let Gary Mitchelmore, president of the Dannevirke Theatre Company, know of your interest in taking part in Chess. You can email him at gmmore@xtra.co.nz or drop in and see him at Luminos on Allardice St.