Reviews: Marjorie Prime Outmatches Chess on Broadway

In 2015, everything seemed like a novel concept. This is the year Jordan Harrison was nominated for the Pulitzer Prize. Marjorie Prime First off-Broadway. Yes, artificial intelligence has been developed, but in the decade since, its sophistication and capabilities have reached levels that are both beneficial and ethically questionable. This production is now back on Broadway.

The use of AI is at the heart of Harrison’s drama about Marjorie (June Squibb), an octogenarian who lives with her daughter Tess (Cynthia Nixon) and son-in-law John (Danny Burstein). Christopher Lowell rounds out the cast as Walter, a computerized version of Marjorie’s deceased husband known as “Prime.” Marjorie suffers from short-term memory loss and mild dementia, and the robot form of her deceased spouse reappears in her 30s, relaying information provided by John and Tess.

No family is without its secrets and challenges, but this one is enduring an indescribable sense of loss. As the layers are peeled back over the course of the show’s 90 minutes, it becomes clear that virtual relationships are easier to navigate and control than those that involve human interaction. “Prime” allows you to fine-tune your reactions, reminiscences, and actions to reassure the living.

Director Ann Kaufman, along with her outstanding cast, makes sure that Harrison’s script never gets boring or moody. On the contrary, it is a grim yet fascinating work, often poignant and poignant for those facing the impending death of an elderly parent or friend.

Still, there are moments of levity, thanks in large part to Squib. Squibb manages to give depth to the character, who is at once determined, vulnerable, kind, frustrating, and endearing. At 96 years old, Squibb seemingly effortlessly plays a role older than the script defines him. Too many stories with elderly people as protagonists turn them into stupid people. Marjorie Prime It elevates its lead player to a place of grace and dignity, even if she is as deeply flawed as the rest of us.

President Nixon’s Tess is difficult to accept because she clings to a deep-seated grudge against nearly everyone in her orbit. Burstein’s John balances his negative personality with a more hopeful and positive outlook. But both are seasoned stage veterans, constantly discovering the complexity and humanity of every part of their being.

Collectively, the cast and story offer an unflinching mirror to ourselves and our current technological moment, challenging us and making us deeply reflect.

The stakes will be high for the first Broadway revival. chess. Two chess masters, Anatoly Sergievsky (Nicholas Christopher) and Freddie Trumper (Aaron Tveit), compete against each other in a grand chess tournament during the Cold War, vying for the love of a woman, Florence Vassy (Lea Michele). It’s heavy, right?

But the Arbiter, played by Bryce Pinkham, appears to narrate and dampen the action, spoiling the already shaky storyline and tilting the show toward melodrama.

The original 1988 Broadway production was a legendary flop. Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus of ABBA fame collaborated with Sir Tim Rice to produce the music and lyrics, and Rice wrote the book. The ambitious show was intended to focus on Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, with whom Rice had a falling out. It’s only been 2 months since we opened, chess The shutters are closed and the season Phantom of the Opera It took the Tony family by storm. If it was Lloyd Webber’s checkmate.

since then, chess It has achieved cult status. Concerts have been performed and numerous attempts have been made to rewrite the confusing and complex book. Danny Strong tackles the story this time around, but under Michael Mayer’s direction it lacks the intended dramatic tension. Mainly because it’s still essentially a soapy song and dance piece.

At least the singing and dancing here is great. One of the main reasons why it is loved by so many people is chess Thanks to its incredible score, this trio takes it to new heights. Tveit is particularly strong on the almost impossible-to-sing “Pity the Child,” and Christopher ends the first act with the heart-rending “Anthem.” Michele has several moments where she shows off her singing talent, especially when she collaborates with Anatoly’s ex-wife Svetlana (Hannah Cruz) on “Nobody’s Side” and later on the famous pop ballad “I Know Him So Well.”

Choreographer Lorin Latallo infuses the show with thrilling dance moves that are hip and electric. Paired with Kevin Adams’ pink and purple fluorescent lighting, the dancing gives the piece a contemporary edge.

this chess is entertaining enough, but fans of the star may overlook the flaws. I just wish the game was more engaging.

Marjorie Prime (★★★★☆) runs through February 15 at the Hayes Theater, 240 West 44th St. Tickets range from $58 to $273. visit 2st.com/shows/marjorie-prime.

Chess (★★★☆☆) runs through May 3 at the Imperial Theater, 249 West 45th St. Tickets range from $84 to $421. visit ChessBroadway.com.