Behind the Scenes with the Stars of “Chess”: A Broadway Journey of Music, Parenting, and Camaraderie

Lea Michele and Co. Bring Viral Energy to Broadway’s “Chess”

NEW YORK ‒ The marketing team behind the Broadway revival of “Chess” deserves a standing ovation. Since its opening last fall, the show’s stars—Lea Michele, Aaron Tveit, and Nicholas Christopher—have embraced the digital age, diving headfirst into viral trends and memes that have captivated audiences online.

From lip-syncing to hits by Pink and Nelly to playful nods to “Wicked,” the trio has transformed their social media presence into a vibrant extension of their stage performances. “If you had asked me five years ago if I’d be participating in TikTok trends while doing ‘Chess the Musical,’ I would have said you’re absolutely crazy,” Tveit remarked during a recent interview.

Michele, who has a special fondness for a particular Natasha Bedingfield trend, shared, “It brings back old-school Rachel Berry from ‘Glee’ holding the hairbrush.” The camaraderie among the cast shines through as they reflect on how these lighthearted moments backstage contrast with the heavy themes of the show.

“Chess,” featuring a score by ABBA’s Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, tells a gripping Cold War-era love story involving a Soviet chess grandmaster, his American rival, and the woman caught between them. Once deemed a flop during its 1988 premiere, the musical has since garnered a cult following and is now a box-office sensation.

In a candid conversation with USA TODAY, the stars opened up about their pre-show rituals, parenting, and the challenges of performing nightly. Michele admitted to a plethora of rituals, including a call to her mother and a moment with a cherished photo from her Broadway debut 30 years ago.

When asked about their children’s favorite “Chess” songs, Christopher joked that his daughters cringe when he sings at home, while Michele’s son eagerly requests “Where I Want to Be.” Tveit added that his daughter responds more to Disney tunes than to the musical’s score.

The trio also discussed the deeper messages embedded in musicals like “Chess.” Michele highlighted her experiences in “Ragtime” and “Spring Awakening,” emphasizing the importance of storytelling that resonates with contemporary issues. Tveit reflected on the transformative power of theater, noting how performances can change minds and foster acceptance.

As they navigate the demanding vocal challenges of “Chess,” the stars shared their backstage hacks for maintaining stamina. Tveit humorously revealed that his dresser creates a rainforest-like atmosphere in his dressing room to combat the theater’s dry air, while Michele emphasized the importance of hydration and rest.

The bond among the cast extends beyond the stage. With five children under the age of five among them, they lean on each other for support, sharing the joys and challenges of parenthood. Michele expressed how comforting it is to have colleagues who understand the emotional toll of leaving their families to perform.

“Chess” is currently playing at the Imperial Theatre (249 W. 45th St), captivating audiences with its blend of powerful music and poignant storytelling. As Michele, Tveit, and Christopher continue to engage with fans both on and off the stage, they remind us that the magic of Broadway is alive and well, thriving in both traditional and modern forms.