RJS Workshop Script Many years ago I developed this 'workshop script' for Chess. The idea was to use this as the basis for an experimental Chess workshop, to try out new ideas and ways of staging the show.
I did not restrict myself to only the lyrics or dialogue already in existence. I simply wrote whatever I thought might serve the scene and story. It was never my intention to 'stage' this version or to 'change' the original lyrics. I was only 'playing' with ideas and the lyrics and dialogue used here were to illustrate these.
It would obviously have needed a great deal more work, with improvements on the exact words and phrases etc. but I hope it will give some indication of the ideas I had at that time. My thoughts and ideas change all the time and I'm sure if I were to write a new script now it would be very different to this one.
ACT ONE
BANGKOK INTRO
The foyer of the Oriental Hotel, Bangkok.
The new contender for the title of World Chess Champion, Freddie Trumper (an American) and his second and lover Florence Vasey (English, but Hungarian born) arrive at the same hotel, accompanied by Walter de Courcey, the head of the American Chess delegation. At the same time, the current champion, Anatoly Sergivesky and his second, Alexander Molokov (both Russians) arrive at the Oriental Hotel, Bangkok, for the 1986 World Chess Championship. They are welcomed and introduced to each other by the Arbiter of the tournament. Freddie refuses to shake hands with the Russians and storms off to find his room. An embarrassed Florence follows behind. The Russians shake off the insult and they too head off to find their rooms.
The streets, bars and temples of Bangkok.
Meanwhile, life goes on as normal in Bangkok; the bars are full of girls, the temples full of monks, the streets full of everything imaginable. The Arbiter and his assistants decide to explore some of what Bangkok has to offer. They discover that the citizens of this exotic city have very little, if any interest in the game of chess. They in turn have very little interest in the citizens of Bangko
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK
Sung by the Arbiter
The scene changes to the championship arena. A theatrical welcoming ceremony (telling the history of the game) has been devised by the sponsors of the tournament and is being recorded for use as the title sequence for the televising of the matches.
TV DIRECTOR
Positions please. From the top.
THE STORY OF CHESS
THE ARBITER
The International Chess Federation, of which I have the honour of being president, welcomes the current world champion - Mr Anatoly Sergievsky, of the Soviet Union and his new challenger Mr Fredrick Trumper - of the United States of America to the magnificent city of Bangkok, and to this the 1986 World Chess Championship.
[There is an abundance of hand shaking and backslapping as the two opposing sides perform their show of camaraderie for the press and the photographers.]
MOLOKOV
Mr de Courcey!
WALTER
Mr Molokov
US v USSR
The various photographers begin to crowd round the two champions in an attempt to get the best picture for tomorrow’s front page. Meanwhile, Freddie reflects on how the press has become so interested in the tournament, mostly, he believes, because of his irate behaviour during the run up to the championship.
WHAT A SCENE
He decides to give the press a little bit more of what they like and brings the conference to a sudden halt - by knocking over the chessboard.
FREDDIE (To the press)
That’s what you wanted, wasn’t it. Here’s the photo opportunity you’ve been waiting for. At least with me you get a decent story to print, not like your Russian friend here. The most interesting thing you could print about him is what kind of health food he eats for breakfast.
And as for you Mr Molokov, I guess you thought it was really clever to wire my room. (He throws a bugging devise at Molokov’s feet.)
MOLOKOV
Mr Trumper, I have no idea what you are talking about!
FREDDIE
You know damn well what I'm talking about! You Russians are all alike – you’re all a pile of cheating shits!
PRESS CONFERENCE
REPORTERS
Does your opponent deserve such abuse?
REPORTER
How come your second’s a girl lover boy
FREDDIE
What’s her sex got to do with it? She’s an amazing chess player.
REPORTERS
But what’s her true motivation
That’s something we’d all like to know.
FREDDIE
Chess is her passion.
REPORTER
We’ve heard some stories about her, and she’s got her own axe to grind.
FREDDIE
What the hell are you guys getting at?
REPORTERS
1956, Budapest is rising
Parted from family
Father gone missing
FREDDIE
How the hell did you guys hear about that?
REPORTERS
1956, Budapest falling
Robbed of her family
And of her homeland
FREDDIE
What has all this got to do with me and with Chess?
REPORTERS
1956 Budapest dying
Little girl sent away
To England for safety
30 years on
The battle has shifted
Now on a chequered board
Her lover the victor
FREDDIE (To Molokov)
Who the hell do you think you are? This is all your doing, you couldn’t wait to make sure this juicy piece of information became front page news!
Freddie lunges for Molokov and grabs him by the jacket lapels. Molokov’s assistants pull Freddie away. He storms out, pushing aside Anatoly.
REPORTERS
Well what did I say
He’s out of his tree
He’s finally flipped
And between you and me
He’s no hope of retaining his crown
In this frame of mind
In fact he shouldn’t have come here
He should have resigned
FLORENCE
Smile, you got your first exclusive story
Now you can bask in his reflected glory
Naked, unprovoked Yankee aggression
Oh, what a credit to your great profession
REPORTERS
Much better to quit
While still number one
Than crash to defeat
Reputation undone
Though he’s proved to himself
It’s a Communist plot
If you ask me it’s money that did it
And started the rot
It’s sad that the best
His country’s produced
Is crumbling in front
Of our eyes and reduced
To a mindless abuse and assault
On all of mankind
I think he shouldn’t have come here
He should have resigned
The press and Florence move behind the up-stage screens, meanwhile, Molokov and Anatoly, still down-stage, discuss what has just happened.
MOLOKOV
The man is utterly mad - believe me Anatoly, you're playing a lunatic.
Continue as per concept album....
Molokov moves up-stage to the reporters. Anatoly goes to the chess table and sits down. He starts putting the pieces back in their correct positions as he reflects on his situation and how his life really isn’t his own anymore.
WHO NEEDS A DREAM? (Where I Want to Be)
Molokov brings back the press to get even more pictures of Anatoly, they interrupt his final thoughts upon his life. Molokov tries to get Florence and Anatoly photographed together.
ARBITER
I’m afraid that is all we have time for today. I must now ask the press to leave the arena.
[The press leave the arena. Molokov, Florence, Anatoly and the Arbiter remain.]
MODEL OF DECORUM (Quartet)
ARBITER
Enough of this pious waffle! I might remind you that if your two players are not in attendance and ready to play chess by tomorrow afternoon at 1500 hours, they will both be fined for breach of federation rules. The game is greater than any of its players!
[The Arbiter leaves, followed by Anatoly.]
MOLOKOV
The game is greater than its players Miss Vassy, how very true.
FLORENCE
Yes Mr Molokov and it’s greater than any underhand tactics that you and your cronies might dream up. This isn’t some military manoeuvre, you can’t destroy us with your words and electronic gadgetry - maybe you should stick to tanks and guns!
MOLOKOV
I wish, Florence, you would refrain from cheap political jibes, at a time when co-operation between us is vital. Besides, I would have thought you would be reluctant to criticize fellow Eastern Europeans.
FLORENCE
Fellow Eastern Europeans! I was born a Hungarian, remember Hungary? Well I wish I could. I was just five when you bastards moved in. I have no memory of my homeland, my people, my mother, my father - all taken from me by you - and you call yourself a fellow Eastern European
MOLOKOV
Come now Miss Vassy, we're digressing
The fact is Mr Trumper owes us an apology.
FLORENCE
An apology!
MOLOKOV
He made ridiculous accusations and insulted us in public. He must apologise.
FLORENCE
Freddie did have a point Mr Molokov, you did bug his room!
MOLOKOV
Whatever Mr Trumper thinks he found in his room it had nothing whatsoever to do with me! If he found anything at all.
FLORENCE
What do you mean?
MOLOKOV
Your man does seem a little unstable, maybe he imagined it!
FLORENCE
Who’s being insulting now Mr Molokov?
MOLOKOV
But this is in private, Mr Trumper’s insults were in public.
FLORENCE
Just like my private life was dragged out and put on show - in public!
MOLOKOV
That had nothing to do with me either!
FLORENCE
And I speak fluent Russian!
MOLOKOV
You must believe me, besides, that’s all in the past. What’s important now is that Trumper apologises.
FLORENCE
There will be no apology! If you have a problem with that, then I suggest we arrange a meeting with the federation to discuss our differences.
MOLOKOV
It will not be necessary to involve the federation. I suggest we defuse these tensions between us by meeting in public for a social drink!
FLORENCE
A drink! In Public?
MOLOKOV
It’s important to show the world that chess is what is important to us – not politics.
FLORENCE
If only I could believe that. I’m not making any promises, but I’ll see what Freddie says.
MOLOKOV (to Florence as she turns to leave)
If he agrees, meet us tonight in the Riverside Restaurant, I’ll book a table for - eight o'clock. Anatoly and I will be waiting for you.
[The scene changes to Florence and Freddie's hotel room.]
FLORENCE
Well, thank you very much for your support out there!
FREDDIE
What do you mean? I told them to leave you alone.
FLORENCE
Yea and then you stormed out leaving me to face them on my own!
FREDDIE
I had to make a visual protest.
FLORENCE
Wasn’t attacking Molokov visual enough?
FREDDIE
That was just a joke, I was never going to hit him!
FLORENCE
That’s all very well, but I’ve had the press grilling me on my past, my father, my reasons for being with you – you just don’t know what it was like - trying to stand up to them and not burst into tears! Where were you when I needed your support?
FREDDIE
Don’t you see that my walkout will give us some major publicity.
FLORENCE
Don’t you think my past being spread all over the world’s press will be publicity enough.
FREDDIE
All publicity is good publicity. And my walkout will be seen as a major insult to the Russians.
FLORENCE
How do you work that out? You’ve just made yourself look stupid and me too!
FREDDIE
What’s your problem? I did what I had to do, if you were made to look foolish, I’m sorry, it couldn’t be helped.
FLORENCE
Then I had to deal with Molokov – he’s demanding an apology!
FREDDIE
Never!
FLORNCE
We’re meeting him and Anatoly this evening to discuss it.
FREDDIE
What the hell were you thinking of! It’s bad enough having to sit at the same chessboard. I refuse to meet with them!....No! I won’t do it! You better go right back out there and make some other arrangements!
YOU WANT TO LOOSE YOUR ONLY FRIEND
FREDDIE
I don't believe this, you of all people, defending the Russians. And expecting me to apologise to them! I’m out of here!
FLORENCE
I didn’t say you had to apologise, we only have to meet with them!
(Still directed at Freddie, even though she knows he's out of earshot.) That's right, run away just like you always do!
SOMEONE ELSE'S STORY
[Florence starts looking through her papers as the scene changes to the market streets of Bangkok. Walter has arranged for a troupe of merchandisers to bombard the stallholders with a barrage of Freddie Trumper merchandise. The stallholders are not interested at first, but eventually they are won over and soon they too are singing the praises of chess and the world championship.]
THE MERCHANDISERS
[As the scene changes we see some hotel workers, waiters etc. passing by, and the location changes to the Riverside Restaurant. Anatoly and Molokov are waiting for Florence.]
FLORENCE
I’m afraid Freddie is not willing to meet with you Mr Molokov, but he says he will talk with Anatoly - alone.
MOLOKOV
This is highly irregular Miss Vassy, I cannot agree to Mr Sergivesky being left alone in the company of Mr Trumper.
ANATOLY
What harm can come to me, being without your services for a few moments?
MOLOKOV
That’s not the point – it’s just not possible.
ANATOLY
Of course it is and it’s going to happen – please, leave us alone.
MOLOKOV (after a short pause)
In the interest of chess I shall reluctantly agree to this meeting, but I must insist that you remain here in the restaurant.
FLORENCE
Of course, this is where Freddie has agreed to meet.
MOLOKOV
Very well, I hope the meeting is successful.
[Molokov leaves. Anatoly smiles and then after a short pause]
ANATOLY
So where is Mr Trumper, Ms Vassy?
FLORENCE
I’m afraid I don’t exactly know. But he said he would be here. He shouldn’t be long.
ANATOLY
Meanwhile, would you like a drink?
FLORENCE
Yes, thank you.
[He pours her a glass of wine. The conversation dries and an awkward silence falls upon them.]
TERRACE DUET
[Freddie arrives and sees them laughing and talking with each other. He is furious with Florence for being so 'friendly' with the Russian.]
FREDDIE
Who’d ever think it?
Such a very pretty setting
Tell me what’s the betting
Very pretty plotting too
Who'd ever guess it?
Daughter in collaboration
With the very nation
Gave her Father third degree!
Where's Daddy? Dead, or in the KGB?
FLORENCE
Freddie, we were only talking!
FREDDIE
No need to explain, I know what's going on! How many secrets have you given away to your new friend?
ANATOLY
It was just an innocent conversation, nothing underhand this time. We were waiting for you.
FREDDIE
With you lot there’s always something underhand!
ANATOLY
Neither of us need these distractions, why can’t we forget about everything that's happened and start concentrating on the chess?
FLORENCE
He's right, we've got to move on from these stupid quarrels.
FREDDIE
Ok, but if there is the slightest hint of interference from your KGB guys, I'm making an official complaint to the federation.
ANATOLY
I don’t want them involved either, I just want to play chess.
FREDDIE
Make sure Molokov knows that.
ANATOLY
I will. I have.
[Anatoly makes to shake Freddie's hand, but Freddie walks away.]
FREDDIE
(Looking back at Anatoly) I hope you know what you’re up against. I’ve waited all my life for this chance, I’m not going to let my country down. The championship title is on its way to the States. (To Florence) Which country you playing for now honey?
FLORENCE
Freddie! (She goes to follow him then stops short. She looks at Anatoly then leaves.)
[Anatoly remains on the terrace for a few seconds then he too leaves.. As the scene changes, Freddie is seen leaving the hotel. He feels betrayed by Florence and begins to reflect on how, due to his own determination, he has risen to the top of his profession - but is that really enough for him? He starts to wander the streets of Bangkok and eventually ends up among the sex dens of Patpong.]
PITY THE CHILD
[During the instrumental break the scene changes to the outside of the chess arena. He sees a poster for the championship with his name on full display. This reminds him of how successful he has already been and how he can have anything else he wants, including the championship title if he truly wants it enough!]
[As the instrumental play-out begins, the scene changes to the chess arena. We see the Arbiter checking the board with Anatoly and Freddie approaching the table. As the final few bars of music are played, they shake hands and take their seats while the Arbiter starts the clock.]
THE ARBITER'S SONG
ARBITER
As you settle down behind your pawns
Power passes to me.....
[As the Arbiter and his assistants regain their composure, the arena returns to a quiet 'model of decorum', but off the board things are far from tranquil. During the games that follow, the relationships between the key characters develop and break down respectively.]
[All of the following scenes take place while the 'Chess' instrumental theme is playing.]
CHESS INSTRUMENTAL
[Chess Break 1 – Florence and Freddie’s hotel room.]
FREDDIE
I hope you’re proud of yourself! One game down already! And it’s all your fault.
FLORENCE
How can you blame me for your ridiculously miscalculated moves? You should be able to get yourself out of jams like that without even thinking.
FREDDIE
That’s the problem. All I can think of is you and him! Every time I look at him I can hear him coming on to you – and you being taken in by his corny words. How could you?
FLORENCE
Freddie, nothing happened, we only talked!
FREDDIE
But if I hadn’t arrived when I did, God knows how far it would have gone. I can’t trust you now Florence.
FLORENCE
Nothing has changed. I’m with you aren’t I, not him!
FREDDIE
I don’t know. I just can’t get the idea out of my mind!
FLORENCE
You’ve got to, you’ve got to forget about him. You’re reacting exactly the way that they want!
FREDDIE
I know, but I don’t know how to stop it.
[Chess Break 2 – Anatoly’s hotel room.]
MOLOKOV
It’s working perfectly! And you said you didn’t need us. What do you think the score would be now if you hadn’t made your move on that Vassy woman?
ANATOLY
I didn’t make a move on her. How many times do I have to tell you.
MOLOKOV
But the thing is, Trumper thinks you did, he’s lost his concentration. He can barely look you in the face anymore. Haven’t you noticed?
ANATOLY
Yes, I’ve noticed.
MOLOKOV
You see there is more than one way to win at chess. Keep on seeing that woman and the tournament will be over in just a few days.
ANATOLY
There is only one important way to win, but there are a thousand ways to cheat. I want to win on my own strength. I won’t play these crazy games of psychology that you are so enthralled by.
MOLOKOV
It’s your only chance.
ANATOLY
I won’t do it!
[Chess Break 3 – Somewhere around the arena building.]
ANATOLY
I need to talk to you alone.
FLORENCE
I’m sorry, that just wouldn’t be a good idea! If Freddie found out…
ANATOLY
He doesn’t have to find out. Please I need to explain some things.
FLORENCE
What kind of things?
ANATOLY
I think love you!
FLORENCE
You don’t even know me!
ANATOLY
I know, but I can’t stop thinking about you.
FLORENCE
Even when you’re playing chess?
ANATOLY
Even then. You inspire me, make me want to play the best I can – to impress you. I know it’s childish, but it’s true.
FLORENCE
I’m flattered, but I don’t know what I’ve done to deserve such praise, I’m just me!
ANATOLY
That’s it, you’re just you, you don’t pretend to be anything else. I love you because you don’t realise how special you are. I don’t think anyone has told you that for a long time. Our lives are being run by other people, people who don’t care about us. We need to break free from them. Make our own lives, follow our own dreams.
FLORENCE
You make it sound all so easy and wonderful, but I can’t be seen with you, I’m sorry.
ANATOLY
Please, let’s just talk about it.
FLORENCE
No, I’m sorry.
[Chess Break 4 - Back in Anatoly’s hotel room.]
MOLOKOV
You must make another move on Vassy straight away. Trumper’s beginning to regain his composure, he needs to see you together. You’ve got to get him worried again.
ANATOLY
I told you! I’m not doing it!
MOLOKOV
You’re exhausted, you don’t have the strength to beat him, I’ve told you this before. Take the woman and he’ll take a fall. He’ll lose his concentration and you’ll be able to win the championship.
ANATOLY
No!
[Chess Break 5 - In the arena, at the chess board.]
FREDDIE
Why the hell are you looking at Florence! Keep your eyes and your filthy commie hands off her. Do you hear me!
ANATOLY
I was only looking, I didn’t touch.
FREDDIE
You touch her and I’ll kill you.
[Freddie and Florence leave the arena and return to their room.]
FLORENCE
What the hell are you doing! You can’t threaten a man for looking in my direction!
FREDDIE
He was eye balling you all through that match, he’s trying to wind me up.
FLORENCE
And he’s succeeding! Why do you let him and them get to you.
FREDDIE
They are dangerous Florence, you don’t know what they are capable of.
FLORENCE
I know they’re not as lethal as you claim them to be.
FREDDIE
‘Course you’re practically one of them now. No doubt you’ll be moving to Moscow when we finish here. Closer to the homeland. That’ll be cosy for you.
FLORENCE
Maybe that’s exactly what I should do. The further away from you the better!
FREDDIE
Fine, want a hand packing your bags?
FLORENCE
Don’t bother. They’re already packed!
[Florence fetches her bags and walks out on Freddie.]
[Florence goes to see Anatoly. They talk briefly (we do not hear what they say) then as the Chess music reaches its final crescendo – they embrace and kiss!]
END ACT ONE
*
ACT TWO
[After the incidents of the past few days and hours, Florence is feeling extremely uncertain about her future. To clear her head she takes an early morning walk along the riverside.]
HEAVEN HELP MY HEART
[The scene changes to Anatoly's hotel room, where he is being harassed by Molokov.]
MOLOKOV
What do you think you’re doing? First you refuse to see the woman, now you say you’ve seen her and you want to continue seeing her! What’s going on?
ANATOLY
Haven’t I done exactly what you wanted! It was your idea to go after the woman in the first place.
MOLOKOV
The idea was to throw Trumper off form, now look what’s happening! He’s regaining his composure and it’s you that can no longer concentrate on what you’re doing. These silly mistakes you’ve been making have got to stop!
ANATOLY
My mistakes on the board have nothing at all to do with her!
MOLOKOV
Don't you see what she's doing to you? She's deliberately trying to put you off your form just so her man has a chance of winning the title - and it's beginning to work! You're already four games behind!
ANATOLY
That's ridiculous, she's not even working for Trumper anymore.
MOLOKOV
If not, then why is she still here? She must be working for someone, or maybe she's hoping that you'll offer her a job?
ANATOLY
Don't be absurd.
MOLOKOV
The press don't think it's absurd. They're beginning to talk about the possibility of a defection. (He hands Anatoly a newspaper) This speculation has to be stopped! And you're the one who's got to stop it.
ANATOLY
What can I do?
MOLOKOV
I've arranged a press conference for this morning. You have to convince them that you are a loyal Russian citizen with no intention of deserting your homeland.
ANATOLY
And how am I going to do that?
MOLOKOV
Read them this statement, (Handing him a sheet of paper) if you do it properly they'll be in no doubt.
[Anatoly begins to read the statement to himself. There is a short pause then Molokov continues.]
MOLOKOV
There's something else.
ANATOLY
What?
MOLOKOV
Her father - he’s still alive!
ANATOLY
You said he’d been killed.
MOLOKOV
That's what she thinks. He was seriously wounded and almost died, but he was taken back to Russia for interrogation and he’s still there – in prison.
ANATOLY
Why are you telling me this?
MOLOKOV
It's simple, as long as you remain loyal to Russia, I shall arrange for her to see her father again, we might even let him out of the country.
ANATOLY
You bastard, you've known this right from the start! I should have guessed you would find some way of using her for your own gain, just like you’ve used me and everybody you've ever known.
MOLOKOV
I'm not using anybody. I'm just making certain that everything goes as it was planned. I think we can safely assume that the Americans and the championship title are safely in our hands. You should be grateful to me.
ANATOLY
Grateful? Grateful that my second is doing all in his power to cheat me and my opponent out of a fair and honest match. You make me sick!
MOLOKOV
Please Anatoly, don't be so quick to condemn, it will all be for the best, you'll see. Now, it's time to meet the press.
[The scene changes to a hotel conference room, where there are a number of press reporters waiting for Anatoly. They shout various questions to him, but he refuses to answer them, instead he just reads his statement. Florence looks on]
ANTHEM
MOLOKOV (To the press)
You may also like to know that Mr Sergievesky's wife will be joining him in Bangkok for the second half of the tournament. She will be arriving tomorrow afternoon.
[The press try asking more questions, but Molokov brings the conference to an end.]
MOLOKOV
Mr Sergievesky would like to thank you for coming here this morning, but has nothing more to add at this point.
[The press leave.]
ANATOLY
Why didn't you tell me my wife was coming?
MOLOKOV
I wanted to surprise you, I thought you’d be pleased.
[Anatoly storms out.]
[Florence has returned to the hotel gardens. The scene changes to the gardens as Anatoly joins her.]
ANATOLY
Florence!
FLORENCE
Why didn't you tell me your wife was coming?
ANATOLY
I didn't know, this is the first I've heard about it.
FLORENCE
Another of Molokov's tricks?
ANATOLY
There's something else you need to know. It's about your father. Molokov says that he isn't dead. He says he's being held prisoner in Russia.
FLORENCE
What?
MOLOKOV
He assures me it's true - and if I remain loyal to Russia he'll arrange for his release. They may even let him leave Russia.
FLORENCE
I don't believe it. It's a lie!
MOLOKOV
Could it be true?
FLORENCE
I suppose it could, but he's bluffing - isn't he?
ANATOLY
I don't know.
YOU AND I
FLORENCE
This is an all too familiar scene.....
[Back in his hotel room, Molokov gathers his cronies around him and reassures them that he has everything under control.]
MOLOKOV
Comrades, why are you looking so worried? There is no chance of our champion defecting now. I have made certain of that. As for him retaining his title I am making arrangements for that too, so you see - it's a time for celebration.
SOVIET MACHINE
[The following day Svetlana arrives in Bangkok. Molokov takes her to see Anatoly in his hotel room, now presumably to be hers too.]
MOLOKOV
Good morning Anatoly, I trust you slept well. I had a wonderfully peaceful night.
[Svetlana moves toward Anatoly, she kisses him and they embrace lightly.]
MOLOKOV
I’ll leave you to settle in, I’m sure you’ll be very comfortable here.
ANATOLY
She’s staying here, with me!
MOLOKOV
Of course, where else would she stay?
ANATOLY
You know I need my space when I’m preparing for a game.
MOLOKOV
It seems the hotel is full, there was no option!
[Molokov leaves.]
SVETLANA
Anatoly, I’ve missed you so much. (She hugs him again.)
ANATOLY
What have they been telling you about me?
SVETLANA
They said you were going to defect, because of some English woman.
ANATOLY
Maybe I should have! I can't stand all this interference from Molokov. He's trying to completely control my life. I can't take much more.
[Svetlana tries to kiss him, he pulls away.]
SVETLANA
You know what he’s like, he’s only doing what he has to – he’s doing it for us.
ANATOLY
Are you really naive enough to believe that? Everything he does is for him, he doesn’t care about anyone but himself.
SVETLANA
But you know how powerful he is, he can make life very difficult for you, for us.
ANATOLY
I know, that’s what frightens me – he’s dangerous.
SVETLANA
But everything will be fine if we do what he tells us.
ANATOLY
I don’t want to do what he tells me anymore – I can’t.
SVETLANA
And what am I to do?
ANATOLY
I don’t know, I really don’t know.
[She touches his arm to comfort him]
ANATOLY
I’m sorry, I have to go.
[He leaves.]
HE KNEW BETTER
(I would like a new song for Svetlana here, but I’ve added a new verse to ‘He Knew Better’ to act as a new song in the meantime.)
SVETLANA
He knew better than me
Where his ambitions would take us
I knew sooner than he
That those ambitions would break us
He would not believe me
Why should he believe me
I held him back
Him and his dreams
Who needs a dream
Who needs ambition
Who'd be the fool
In my position
Year after year
I'm still denying
Anything's changed
Anything's dying
He took care of my needs
Though he was not often with me
He gave all of his time
To his game and to his masters
He had his dreams
I lived my nightmares
And now once again
My nightmares have found me
And now he's
Where he wants to be
And who he wants to be
And doing what he always said he would
And yet he knows he hasn't won at all
Running for his life
And never looking back
In case there's someone
Right behind to shoot him down
And say they always knew he'd fall
When this crazy wheel slows down
Where will I be
I'll still be denying
Anything's changed
Anything's dying
[Molokov enters.]
MOLOKOV
Where’s Anatoly?
SVETLANA
He said he had to leave, I don’t know where he was going.
MOLOKOV
I forgot to tell you about the Federation’s cocktail party this evening. Everybody will be there, including the press. I want you to be by Anatoly’s side the whole time. We need to show the press and the world that you and he are a happily married couple.
SVETLANA
I’m not so sure that we are anymore.
MOLOKOV
Then we have to make sure that one day you will be happy once again. You’re not just here for a holiday my dear – it’s your marriage that’s at stake. Only you can win him back from this woman – only you can keep him loyal to Russia.
SVETLANA
I’ll do what I can.
MOLOKOV
Wonderful, now let’s go and buy you something beautiful to wear.
[Later that evening, just before the cocktail party, Molokov and Walter meet to discuss a possible collaboration between them. They are both dressed in eveningwear.]
MOLOKOV
Ah Walter, very smart.
WALTER
Very uncomfortable.
MOLOKOV
The things we have to suffer for our countries.
WALTER
I can’t imagine that you’ve had to suffer very much Alexander.
MOLOKOV
We’ve all had to make sacrifices at one time or another.
WALTER
What’s this all about? Your message didn’t say much.
MOLOKOV
I’m sure you can appreciate that discretion is of the utmost importance in this matter.
WALTER
I can appreciate discretion, but what is the matter in question?
MOLOKOV
It seems we are going to be able to help each other.
WALTER
In what way?
MOLOKOV
Heart-warming international co-operation.
WALTER
I don’t understand.
MOLOKOV
I have the proof that Florence Vassy’s father is alive. You can have the chance to stage a great human rights victory.
WALTER
What’s the catch?
MOLOKOV
You have to help me to convince her that it’s true and get her to convince Trumper to throw the match.
WALTER
Not an easy task!
MOLKOV
Worth it though and you know there’s more than just Mr Vassy in prison over there! I’m sure there must be someone you’d be interested in rescuing?
WALTER
Ah, now you’ve got me interested – convince me!
LET’S WORK TOGETHER
[Walter and Molokov seal their working relationship with a handshake. Molokov hands Walter a large brown envelope as the scene changes to the hotel Ball Room. Various delegates are seen arriving. Eventually all the leading players arrive too and the Arbiter plays host to all in attendance.]
THE DEAL
ARBITER
Isn't it strange the complications
People attach to situations
Almost as if they want to miss
The wood for the trees
Nothing will change my basic feeling
When they've done all their wheeler-dealing
Those in the strongest situations
Do as they please
You might see all kinds of human emotion here
Passion and pain, love and hate
I see nothing other than a simple board game
As the evening begins, Walter makes his first move.
WALTER AND FLORENCE
WALTER
Your Father is alive. I have all of the evidence here. (Handing her an envelope)
FLORENCE
My father, alive!
WALTER
In Russia, thirty years in prison.
FLORENCE
Do you really think I’d believe you or Molokov?
WALTER
It's the truth. Everything you always wanted to know is in those documents, once you've read them you won't be in any doubt. Now, Molokov assures me we can get your father out – and not only him…
We have some people to recover
I know that you would simply love a
Chance to make sure your father’s name
Is high on our list
We want him back which is to say a
Gesture is needed from our player
I no longer care if he gets beaten
In fact I insist
FLORENCE
There must be a lie
You wouldn't tell me
A limit to your devious ambition
But what it could be
I can't imagine
Is there no-one here who's not a politician
WALTER
Life is more important than politics or chess. All they want is for Freddie to throw the match and Anatoly to stay loyal to Russia. You are the perfect person to make sure both these criteria are met – and you’re the one that will benefit most, you’ll get to see your father, he’ll be released immediately!
FLORENCE
Freddie throw the match? He'd never do it anyway, not for me, not for anybody. There's no deal!
ARBITER
And then the wife makes her move.
SVETLANA AND ANATOLY
SVETLANA
Why won't you give me a chance Anatoly, you must know that I need you, that I love you. Why won't you listen to me?
ANATOLY
I don't know who to listen to anymore. You don't know what it's like. I have Molokov shouting about loyalty, you going on about love, my seconds giving me contradictory advice on how to deal with Trumper, I just don't know where to turn.
SVETLANA
What about me? Why don't you turn to me. Don't you think I find it difficult too? You don't seem to care about anyone else anymore, it's always I this and I that - what happened to us?
ANATOLY
You really don't understand do you? I have to start playing chess again in two days time and I don't know how I'm going to do it!
SVETLANA
The same way you always do. You've got to be strong. Forget about this woman, it's her that's ruining your game not Molokov. Everything he's doing is for our benefit - don't you understand?
ANATOLY
When this crazy wheel slows down
Where will I be?
Back where I started!
ARBITER
Meanwhile, Molokov makes a counter gambit.
MOLOKOV AND FREDDIE
MOLOKOV
Communist, Democrat - an intriguing collusion
FREDDIE
Democrat, total shit that's how I've always seen us....
MOLOKOV
Not a help, I'll admit to agreement between us
But the appeal partner
Of this deal partner
Is we all stand to win
You and me the lady also
Don't break her heart, partner
Just be smart, partner
Throw the game, show your love
Is as pure as snow in Moscow
FREDDIE
There's no deal, partner
Who's your real partners
Could there be just a chance
That you've got some heavy clients?
MOLOKOV
That’s not true, partner
How could you, partner
Think I’d want to pursue
Any deal but our alliance
How can you only think
Of your selfish ambition?
And not of her position
Or you’d rather perhaps
See her world collapse?
For a tinpot competition!
FREDDIE
There's no deal!
ARBITER
The lovers reassess the situation.
FLORENCE AND ANATOLY
FLORENCE
Walter’s just given me these documents about my father, and he wants me to ask Freddie to throw the match!
ANATOLY
What? What's in the documents?
FLORENCE
All kinds of things, even a statement from my father giving details about me and other members of my family. I don't understand how they've suddenly got hold of all these things.
ANATOLY
Their research on you would have started many months ago, not just during the past few weeks. Molokov will have known about your father for quite some time.
FLORENCE
He knew he hadn't been killed?
ANATOLY
Yes. He obviously got all these documents together in case they were of use to him.
FLORENCE
So it probably was him that tipped off the press.
ANATOLY
I think it was, it’s just the kind of thing he’d do.
FLORENCE
But why hasn’t he told me before now?
ANATOLY
You’re a chess player, you know that it’s never a good idea to use material until you need it. Molokov hasn’t a clue about chess, but he’s got just the kind of mind that would be perfect for it.
[At this point a member of his delegation comes over to Anatoly and asks to speak with him. They walk away together - leaving Florence alone with her thoughts.]
FLORENCE
When I was young I learned survival
Taught myself not to care
Luxuries such as father, mother
Vanished into thin air
How can a half remembered figure
From a past, so remote that it's hardly real
Alter the way I feel?
Pity the child who thirty-five years on
Finds her confidence gone
ARBITER
Meanwhile, the two most powerful players make a mid-game assessment.
WALTER AND MOLOKOV
WALTER
You should have seen how she reacted
I couldn’t leave ‘till she’d extracted
Promises she would see her father
Simple, I said
Told her the way she could achieve this
Even though you might not believe this
She said that I was not to worry
Go right ahead
MOLOKOV
You don’t know her well
She could have fooled you
She could despite herself try to resist us
WALTER
I don’t think I’m wrong
MOLOKOV
But let’s be certain
There are others we can call in to assist us
ARBITER
And so Molokov enlists the help of the aggrieved wife.
MOLOKOV AND SVETLANA
MOLOKOV
It seems we may need to try a little harder than we thought to keep your husband on our side – on your side. I think it’s time that you met the other woman and when you do, make sure she knows just how much damage she’s causing.
ARBITER
Then Anatoly makes his anger perfectly clear.
[Anatoly pushes his way between Svetlana and Molokov, Svetlana heads off unnoticed to find Florence.]
ANATOLY AND MOLOKOV
ANATOLY
What the hell do you think you're doing? Why are you trying to make Trumper throw the match?
MOLOKOV
I'm making certain that everything turns out just as we want it.
ANATOLY
Do you really think Trumper's going to believe this story about Florence's father? You know what he thinks about Russians - he'll never agree to it.
MOLOKOV
All I have to do is convince him that his throwing the match will guarantee the release of her father, and that in gratitude for his sacrifice she is bound to take him back as her lover - then the title is ours. It's as simple as that.
ANATOLY
If I can’t win in my own right I don’t want to win at all. There’s no glory in winning the title by cheating!
MOLOKOV
There’s no glory at all in losing, in fact to lose just isn’t worth thinking about. My job is to make sure you win and that’s what I’m doing.
[Anatoly walks away]
ARBITER
And then Freddie makes a desperate final play for the only woman he's ever really loved.
FREDDIE AND FLORENCE
FREDDE
Silly boy, woman who
He should not have let walk out
There's no hitch that we two
Can't untangle or talk out
And the appeal, partner
Of this deal, partner
Is we both stand to win
We'll bring back the golden era
Stick with me, honey
Leave him be, honey
Don't you know it's not true
Your father isn't alive!
FLORENCE
How do you know about my father?
FREDDIE
Molokov told me, he wants me to throw the game. It's all just a trick Florence, don't you understand? They'll do anything to keep that title.
FLORENCE
I know why they're doing it, but this is my father's life we're talking about, I can't put it at risk.
FREDDIE
I can't throw the match!
[Florence walks away, but walks straight into the path of Svetlana.]
ARBITER
Finally the wife takes matters into her own hands.
SVETLANA AND FLORENCE
SVETLANA
I hope you're proud of what you've done, you've destroyed Anatoly's game and you've destroyed our marriage.
FLORENCE
I didn't mean for any of this to happen.
SVETLANA
I've heard about women like you, trampling over everybody just to get what she wants.
FLORENCE
It wasn't like that, I didn't plan any of this, you've got to believe me.
SVETLANA
Whether you did or not, it's us that has to suffer. You don't know how much damage you've done!
FLORENCE
I do, I'm sorry, but there is nothing I can do.
SVETLANA
Why don't you ask Trumper to throw the match? That's the only thing that can help us now. This is all your fault - it's up to you to put it right!
FLORENCE
I can't ask Freddie to throw the match, I can't do it!
SVETLANA
In that case maybe you should just go! Leave Bangkok and let the men fight their battle in peace!
[Florence walks away and leaves the ballroom. She takes a seat on the Terrace and begins to read the documents about her father. As she does so, she reflects on everything that's been happening.]
NOBODY'S SIDE
[Having decided that her only option is to ask Freddie to throw the match, Florence returns to the Ballroom to find him.]
THE DEAL PART 2
FLORENCE
I've been reading these documents about my father, it's got to be true - my father is alive!
FREDDIE
You know you can’t trust the Russians.
FLORENCE
They've got my father, you've got to throw the match, it's his only chance of freedom!
FREDDIE
Florence you know I can't throw the match, I can't lose my title for an old man who doesn't even exist.
FLORENCE
This is my father's life
Do you know what you're saying
If you win then I loose
This is more than a game
They’re playing
ARBITER
And finally Anatoly is told the news.
FLORENE AND ANATOLY
FLORENCE
I've asked Freddie to throw the game.
ANATOLY
You did what? How could you do that, you know I don't want him to.
FLORENCE
You must understand, I had to do it for my father. You know you can't beat Freddie, it was the only thing I could do!
ANATOLY
So you don't believe in me anymore either! How could you take sides with Molokov?
FLORENCE
I'm not taking sides! I'm doing what I have to do, my father has a chance of freedom. I can't deny him that.
[Svetlana approaches them, but says nothing.]
ANATOLY
Florence, I can't cope with all of this anymore. I need some time, some space. I can't concentrate when you're around, you've ruined my game!
FLORENCE
But I had to do it, you must understand, I had no choice.
ANATOLY
You’ve just told me I could never beat him, what would you want with a loser! Please, just leave me alone!
[Florence runs away, almost in tears. Svetlana goes to touch Anatoly, but he pulls away and leaves her standing alone.]
ARBITER
Who'd ever think it?
Such a squalid little ending
Watching them descending
Just as far as they can go
They’re learning things they didn't want to know
ARBITER & CHORUS
Who'd ever guess it?
No-one makes the moves intended
Till the game is ended
Then they'll say we told you so
We're learning things we didn't want to know
SVETLANA
Anatoly, I need you!
ARBITER
Everybody's playing the game
But nobody's rules are the same
CHORUS
Nobody's on nobody's side
Everybody playing the game
But nobody's rules are the same
Nobody's on nobody's side
[As the guests leave Svetlana is left standing on an empty stage. She begins to reflect on how her time with Anatoly has come to an end. At the same time, back in her hotel room, Florence reflects on how maybe she’s been a fool to fall for someone so quickly.]
I KNOW HIM SO WELL
SVETLANA
Nothing is so good it lasts eternally...
[Towards the end of 'I Know Him So Well', the centre stage screens slide apart to reveal the chess arena. Anatoly is sitting at the chessboard - staring at the pieces. As ‘Champions’ begins he remains seated, but eventually gets up and leaves.]
[The arena remains empty for the rest of the first part of the ‘Champions’ intro. On the first crescendo, screens at extreme upstage fly out to reveal the delegates etc. It is now the final game of the tournament and the TV Company has once again created a slightly theatrical ‘opening’ as the players prepare for their most important game ever.]
Trinkets in airports sufficient to lead them astray
SVETLANA
Does the player exist
In any human endeavour
Who's been known to resist
Sirens of fame and possessions?
They will destroy them, not rivals, not age, not success
CHORUS
Nineteen fifty-six - Budapest is rising
Nineteen fifty-six - Budapest is fighting
Nineteen fifty-six - Budapest is falling
Nineteen fifty-six - Budapest is dying
FREDDIE
They all think they see a man
Who doesn't know
Which move to make
Which way to go
Whose private life
Caused his decline
Wrecked his grand design
Some are vicious, some are fools
And others blind
To see in me
One of their kind
ANATOLY
Anyone can be
A husband, lover
Sooner them than me
When they discover
Their domestic bliss is
Shelter for their failing
Nothing could be worse
Than self-denial
Having to rehearse
The endless trial
Of a partner's rather sad
Demands prevailing
SVETLANA
As you watch yourself caring
About a minor sporting triumph, sharing
Your win with esoterics
Paranoids, hysterics
Who don't pay attention to
What goes on around them
They leave the ones they loved the way they found them
A normal person must
Dismiss you with disgust
And weep for those who trusted you
ANATOLY
Nothing you have said
Is revelation
Take my blues as read
My consolation -
Finding out at last my one true obligation!
FLORENCE
Since you seem to have shut out
The world at large then maybe I should cut out
My tiny inessential
World, inconsequential
In the kind of games you're playing
How do you do it?
I tried to be that cynical but blew it
And as you twist this knife
That risks my father's life
I'm not surprised I slip your mind
FREDDIE
Nothing you have said
Is revelation
Take my blues as read
My consolation
Finding out that you're my one true obligation!
FLORENCE, SVETLANA & CHORUS
Listen to them shout
They saw you do it
In their minds no doubt
That you've been through it
Suffered for your art but
In the end a winner
We have never heard
Such an ovation
Who could not be stirred?
Such dedication
Skill and guts a model
For the young beginner
They're completely enchanted
But they don't take your qualities for granted
It isn't very often
That the critics soften
Nonetheless you've won their hearts
How can we begin to
Appreciate the work that you've put into
Your calling through the years
The blood, the sweat and tears
The late, late nights, the early starts
There they go again!
Your deeds inflame them?
Drive them wild, but then
Who wants to tame them?
If they want a part of you
Who'd really blame them?
FREDDIE
And so you're letting me know -
FLORENCE
For you're the only one who's ever suffered anything at all
ANATOLY
How you've hated my success -
SVETLANA
Well, I won't crawl -
And you can slink back to your pawns
And to your tarts
ANATOLY - FREDDIE
And every poisoned word
Shows that you never understood
SVETLANA
Liar!
ANATOLY & FREDDIE
Never!
FLORENCE
Liar!
ANATOLY & FREDDIE
Never!
SVETLANA
Liar!
ANATOLY & FREDDIE
Never!
FLORENCE
Liar!
ANATOLY & FREDDIE
Never! Never!
ANATOLY, SVETLANA, FREDDIE & FLORENCE
Nothing you have said
Is revelation
Take my blues as read
My consolation
Finding out
That I'm my only obligation
FREDDIE
And so today
I throw away
My work, my fame
In exchange for her
Father's freedom
ANATOLY
Is there no-one in my life
Who does not claim
The right to steal
My work, my name
My success, my fame
And my freedom?
ARBITER
Anatoly Sergievsky remains the World Chess Champion.
[The arena is filled with the noise of excited chatting and laughter. Florence approaches Freddie to thank him for what he has done - they embrace lightly. Molokov then approaches the two of them with a huge grin. He shakes hands with Freddie and then Florence. The arena begins to clear and soon only Florence and Anatoly are left.]
FLORENCE
So, they got what they wanted, you’re still the champion.
ANATOLY
I don’t feel like a champion. Freddie should have won, he had the edge on me. It must have been difficult for him to throw the match.
FLORENCE
I’m surprised he did it, I thought he would play to win.
ANATOLY
He must really love you.
FLORENCE
I think maybe he does, in his own impossible way.
ANATOLY
Will you go back to him?
FLORENCE
I can’t, too much has happened - it just wouldn’t work.
ANATOLY
What about your father?
FLORENCE
Molokov has arranged for me to go to Moscow in a few days time. I’m staying here until then.
ANATOLY
What will happen after that?
FLORENCE
I don’t really believe that it is my father anymore. It’s probably a hoax, but whoever he is he does seem to know my father, so I might be able to find out what really happened. After that I don’t know what I will do.
ANATOLY
I wish I could leave all of this behind me and start a new life with you.
FLORENCE
Oh, Anatoly I feel so alone. I’d almost managed to forget about all that happened when I was a child. This has brought back so many bad memories. I feel like a little girl again, with no one to protect me. They took my father from me when I was only five and now they’re taking you from me.
ANATOLY
I wish there was something I could do, but there isn’t. I tried to fight them, but it only made things worse – you can’t beat them, they’re too strong.
FLORENCE
And ruthless. It’s funny, Freddie always said never to trust them – I guess he was right after all.
ANATOLY
You trusted me.
FLORENCE
And look what happened.
YOU AND I
ANATOLY
Knowing I want you
Knowing I love you.....
[While Florence and Anatoly kiss and embrace, Freddie and Svetlana appear up-stage left and right.]
FREDDIE
You could not give me
More than you gave me
Why was there still something in me
So discontented?
SVETLANA
I won't look back anymore
And if I do - just for a moment
FREDDIE & ANATOLY
I'll soon be happy to say
I knew her when
FLORENCE & SVETLANA
But if you hear today
I'm no longer quite so devoted
To this affair...
ALL
I've been misquoted
You and I
We've seen it all
Chasing our hearts' desire
But we go on pretending
Stories like ours
Have happy endings
[As Anatoly and Florence kiss and embrace for the last time, echoes from their past are heard…]
CHORUS
Didn't I know
How it would go?
If I knew from the start
Why am I falling apart?
Hoping to keep that best of moments
When the passion starts
Heaven help my heart
And what I'm feeling now
Has no easy explanation
Reason plays no part
I love him / her too much
When the crazy wheel slow downs
Where will I be? Back where I started
Pity the child who has ambition
Knows what he wants to do
Although the feelings run just as deep
The promise she made has grown impossible to keep
Each day got through
Means one or two
Less mistakes
Remain to be made
FLORENCE, ANATOLY, SVETLANA & FREDDIE
You and I
We've seen it all
Chasing our heart’s desire
But we go on pretending
Stories like ours + CHROUS
Have happy endings
[As the song comes to an end, all four turn and walk off stage alone. Freddie and Florence to up-stage right and stage right, Anatoly and Svetlana to up-stage left and stage left. At the very end of the music, the lights go out and we catch just a glimpse of Molokov and Walter shaking hands up-stage centre. It seems only their story really had the happy ending!]