Chess - Revised Broadway Script - Thomas Hartwell
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Transcript of Chess - Revised Broadway Script - Thomas Hartwell
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Thomas Hartwell
Music by Lyrics
Benny Bjrn Tim
Andersson Ulvaeus Rice
Based on an Idea by
Tim Rice
Book by
Richard Nelson
Revised by
Thomas Hartwell With revisions by
David H. Bell and Wayne S. Rossi
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CHARACTERS
FLORENCE
ANATOLY
FREDDIE
MOLOKOV
WALTER
SVETLANA
ARBITER
ENSEMBLE
SETTING
The action takes place in and around the 1988 World Chess
Championship in Bangkok, Thailand, and two months later
in Budapest, Hungary, near the end of the Cold War.
-
LEAD CHARACTER BREAKDOWN
Florence: Strong belt voice (to E). Mid-thirties. Born in
Hungary; has been brought up in America since 1956. She
is clever, theatrical, touching, vivacious, volatile.
Fredericks chess second.
Anatoly: Baritone (to G sharp). Early forties. A Russian
chess champion. Unexpectedly charming. An intelligent,
feeling, passionate man, with a certain sarcastic wit to his
humour.
Freddie: Rock tenor (to C sharp). Late twenties. An
American chess champion. A cross between Bobby Fisher
and John McEnroe. Arrogant and temperamental, but a
genius; his chess playing is revolutionary.
Molokov: Bass (down to F sharp). Fifties. Anatolys chess second and a Russian spy. Not a fake, comic, stage Russian. Intellectually formidable. Also a father figure to
Florence.
Walter: Baritone (up to A). Thirties. A marketing agent,
and a CIA agent. Seemingly respectable, substantial,
trustworthy.
Svetlana: Strong belt voice (up to E). Late thirties.
Anatolys estranged wife. Domestic, wholesome, shy. A dramatic contrast to Florencenot a contemporary cosmopolitan woman.
Arbiter: Rock high baritone (up to A). Thirty to early
forties. International businessman. Easily flustered and
temperamental, grows to be very a formidable figure.
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ENSEMBLE BREAKDOWN
Gregor Vassy: Forties/Fifties. Florences father, leader of student rebellion.
Young Florence: Between five and ten. May appear as a
Hungarian child in II 1 if desired.
Maria: Florences nursemaid; non-speaking role. May double as Southern Reporter.
Rebels: 1-4. 1 and 4 are male, 2 and 3 are female..
Reporters: Australian, French, American, English,
German, Russian, Southern, Female. In addition to the
Female Reporter in II 8, French, German, and Southern Reporters are female. Accents are optional except for
Southern Reporter in II 2.
Nikolai: Twenties. Molokovs assistant.
Assistant: May double as Rebel 2 in I Prologue.
Ben: Twenties. Walters CIA apprentice and later Anatolys bodyguard.
Russian Man: May also double as Russian Reporter.
Pete: Bens assistant. May double as Rebel 1.
Josef and Kristina: Married friends of Anatoly. May
double as Rebels 3 and 4.
Merchandisers, Delegates, Assistants, Hungarian Choir,
Fans , Photographers, and other members of the
Chorus: Ensemble singers. May double as above roles,
except for Gregor, Reporters, Nikolai and Ben.
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MUSICAL NUMBERS
ACT I
PROLOGUE.....................................................BUDAPEST, HUNGARY, 1956
The Story of Chess.....................................................................................Gregor
Lullaby...........................................................................................Gregor, Rebels
BANGKOK, THAILAND, 1988
Freddies Entrance.....................................................................................Freddie Press Conference....................................................................Florence, Reporters
Where I Want to Be..................................................................................Anatoly
How Many Women....................................................................Florence, Freddie
Merchandisers....................................................................Walter, Merchandisers
U.S. vs. U.S.S.R........................................................Molokov, Walter, Delegates
Quartet........................................................Molokov, Florence, Arbiter, Anatoly
American and Florence............................................Florence, Freddie, Company
Someone Elses Story..............................................................................Florence Mountain Duet..........................................................................Florence, Anatoly
One Night in Bangkok........................................................Freddie and Company
Story of Chess (Reprise).Arbiter Florence Quits............................................................................Freddie, Florence
Nobodys Side........................................................................Florence, Company Anatoly and the Press.............................................................................Reporters
Anthem.................................................................... ..................................Anatoly
INTERMISSION
ACT II
PROLOGUE............................KENNEDY AIRPORT, NY, 8 WEEKS LATER
Arbiters Song.....................................................................Arbiter and Company
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
Hungarian Folk Song..............................................................................Company
Heaven Help My Heart............................................................................Florence
Winning........................................................................................Walter, Freddie
You and I...................................................................Florence, Anatoly, Svetlana
Freddie Goes Metal....................................................................................Freddie
Arbiters Song (Reprise).Arbiter and Company Lets Work Together..................................................................Molokov, Walter I Know Him So Well................................................................Florence, Svetlana
Reconciliation............................................Freddie, Florence, Anatoly, Company
Pity the Child.............................................................................................Freddie
Lullaby........................................................................................Gregor, Florence
Endgame............................................................... ..................................Company
You and I (Reprise)...................................................................Anatoly, Florence
Finale.........................................................................Walter, Florence, Company
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SCENE BREAKDOWN
ACT I
Prologue: Gregor Vassys Home in Budapest 1 Overture (Instrumental) 2 The Story of Chess 3 Lullaby
Scene 1: Lobby of the Bangkok Hilton Hotel
4 Freddies Entrance 5 Press Conference
Scene 2: Anatolys Hotel Suite 6 Where I Want to Be
Scene 3: Freddies Suite 7 How Many Women
Scene 4: The Chess Arena
8 Merchandisers 9 U.S. vs. U.S.S.R.
Scene 5: The Arena
10 Chess No. 1 (Instrumental) 11 Quartet
Scene 6: Freddies Suite 12 The American and Florence 13 Someone Elses Story
Scene 7: The Golden Mountain Cafe
14 Mountain Duet
Scene 8: Streets of Bangkok and the Arena
15 One Night in Bangkok
Scene 9: The Arena and a Bangkok Nightclub
16 Story of Chess (Reprise) 17 Chess No. 2 (Instrumental) 18 Florence Quits 19 Nobodys Side
Scene 10: Underground Parking Square
20 Defection (Instrumental)
Scene 11: Bangkok Airport
21 Anatoly and the Press 22 Anthem
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ACT II
Prologue: Kennedy Airport, New York
23 The Arbiters Song
Scene 1: A Budapest Cathedral
24 Hungarian Folk Song 25 Heaven Help My Heart
Scene 2: Freddies Suite 26 Winning
Scene 3: A picnic by the Danube
27 You and I
Scene 4: Molokovs hotel room
Scene 5: Outside the Arena
28 Freddie Goes Metal
Scene 6: Lobby of the Arena
29 The Arbiters Song (Reprise) 30 Lets Work Together
Scene 7: An elegant restaurant
31 I Know Him So Well
Scene 8: Lobby of the hotel
32 Reconciliation 33 Pity the Child
Scene 9: The meadow by the Danube
34 Budapest Streets (Instrumental) 35 Lullaby
Scene 10: The Arena
36 Endgame
Scene 11: Outside the Budapest Airport
37 You and I (Reprise) 38 Finale
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Introduction
After the success of Chesss engagement in London, creators Tim Rice, Benny Andersson, and
Bjrn Ulvaeus and director Trevor Nunn moved to import the musical to Broadway, revising the
script along the way. Recognizing the flawed nature of the original production, Nunn took
creative control over these revisions, cutting much of the score and hiring playwright Richard
Nelson to provide a new book. Unfortunately, this new version of the show flopped massively on
Broadway, playing only 68 performances to savage reviews before closing. To make matters
worse, contractual obligations made it so that the only version of Chess that could be licensed to
American productions would be the Broadway version.
Thus began over two decades of revised productions and altered scripts, all in the name of
creating a workable version of the troubled Broadway production. And though licenses have
since been lifted, allowing the UK production to be performed in the states as well, I have
endeavored to create yet another revision of the script, in the hopes of finding that workable
version.
As with my previous London revisions, the aim of this script is to create a functional revision of
the show without straying too far from the base core of the original. Therefore, while there are
many trims and altered lines and lyrics (and one additional number), the overall structure and
form remains the Broadway script. As before, this script is in no way officialthis is merely a
fans project created for the purposes of studying an endlessly fascinating show, and it should not
in any way be used in a production without the express permission of Samuel French, Inc.
Much thanks has to go out to the many talented people who have attempted this before methe
Broadway script has invited much tinkering and revising over the years, and, as indicated in the
credit, much was culled from the revisions of David H. Bell and Wayne S. Rossi in the
development of this iteration of the script. And, of course, thanks and gratitude go out to Benny
Andersson, Bjrn Ulvaeus, and Tim Rice for giving us the gift that is Chess, and particular
thanks to Richard Nelsonfor many reasons his books caught much ire and scrutiny over the
years, but in the course of studying and revising the script Ive come to appreciate its many
strengths, even in the face of its admitted weaknesses. I believe despite the flaws that the Nelson
script provides a very workable foundation for the endless puzzle that is Chess, and it is my hope
that this revision helps to bring the strengths of this one of countless variations to light.
With regards,
Thomas Hartwell
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I Prologue 1
ACT I
PROLOGUE
(MUSIC #1: Overture (Instrumental))
(Budapest, Hungary, 1956. A small crowded room in the home of
GREGOR VASSY, leader of a student rebellion; sparsely furnished except
for a couple bunks and several chairs. Numerous rebels and refugees
under blankets sleeping, others smoking, reading the paper or simply
staring into space; all are waiting.
In the center of this, FLORENCE VASSY, GREGORs four-year-old daughter, sits playing a game of chess with a young rebel, MARIA.
Outside one hears the occasional GUNSHOT.
GREGOR enters, accompanied by two rebels, all with guns. FLORENCE
turns to them. GREGOR sees her.)
GREGOR
Florence
(He gestures the other two to go back out, rests his gun against a wall and
moves over to his daughter. He is clearly distressed.)
GREGOR
Florence, I need to tell you something
YOUNG FLORENCE
Storytime, papa! Storytime!
(GREGOR chuckles slightly and decides a momentary distraction would
be okay. He picks FLORENCE up and rests her in his lap and starts to
pack away the chess set.)
(MUSIC #2: The Story of Chess)
GREGOR
EACH GAME OF CHESS MEANS THERES ONE LESS VARIATION LEFT TO BE PLAYED.
EACH DAY GOT THROUGH MEANS ONE OR TWO
LESS MISTAKES REMAIN TO BE MADE.
NOT MUCH IS KNOWN
OF EARLY DAYS OF CHESS BEYOND A FAIRLY VAGUE REPORT
THAT FIFTEEN HUNDRED YEARS AGO TWO PRINCES FOUGHT,
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I Prologue 2
TOUGH BROTHERS, FOR A HINDU THRONE.
THEIR MOTHER CRIED,
FOR NO-ONE REALLY LIKES THEIR OFFSPRING FIGHTING TO THE DEATH.
SHE BEGGED THEM, STOP THE SLAUGHTER WITH HER EVERY BREATH, BUT SURE ENOUGH, ONE BROTHER DIED.
SAD BEYOND BELIEF,
SHE TOLD HER WINNING SON
YOU HAVE CAUSED SUCH GRIEF I CANT FORGIVE THIS EVIL THING YOUVE DONE!
HE TRIED TO EXPLAIN
HOW THINGS HAD REALLY BEEN,
BUT HE TRIED IN VAIN.
NO WORDS OF HIS COULD MOLLIFY THE QUEEN.
AND SO HE ASKED
THE WISEST MEN HE KNEW THE WAY TO LESSEN HER DISTRESS.
THEY TOLD HIM HED BE PRETTY CERTAIN TO IMPRESS BY USING MODEL SOLDIERS ON
A CHECQUERED BOARD TO SHOW IT WAS HIS BROTHERS FAULT: THEY THUS INVENTED CHESS.
(The chess set packed, he slips it into FLORENCEs bag and lifts FLORENCE to carry her to one of the bunks in the room.)
(MUSIC #3: Lullaby)
GREGOR
Florence, I have to leave you now. It isnt safe for you here, and I cant risk (a pause as FLORENCE stares at him. He starts to tuck her into bed.)
Maria will take you to the airport soon, and youll be on your way to America. I have a friend there wholl take care of you. (another pause.)
Ill come and see you again. Once this is over, well see each other again. I promise. (another pause; FLORENCE continues to stare.)
Florence, pleaseyou must try and rest. Youve got a long journey ahead of you.
GREGOR
ALUDJ KICSI LNYKM,
HUNYD BE SZEMECSKDET,
(Slowly the others join him in the lullaby.)
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I Prologue 3
GREGOR & CHORUS
LMOD DES SZRNYN
SUHANJ KNNYEDN,
APUKD ERS KEZN.
(FLORENCE drifts to sleep. The others continue to sing, some
reverentially, some longingly.)
CHORUS
ELALUDT A PRND,
KIALSZIK A FNY.
SUHANJ KICSI LNYKM
LMOD KK EGN,
APUKD ERS KEZ
(They are suddenly interrupted by the sound of explosions. Some REBELS
hurry in.)
REBEL 2
Tanksthe Russians are moving into Prodgsy Street.
REBEL 1
Lets go. Hurry!
(As the PEOPLE in the room start to go, a small contingent of REBELS,
MARIA and FLORENCE among them, start to move out a back entrance.
FLORENCE sees her father and starts to pull away.)
GREGOR
Go with them, Florence. Please go!
YOUNG FLORENCE
Papa
(GREGOR grabs her bag with the chess set and places it in FLORENCEs hands.)
GREGOR
Go!
(The contingent makes their way out. The last rebel turns and salutes.)
REBEL 1
Good luck, Gregor Vassy.
(And exits. GREGOR and a handful of REBELS remains.)
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I Prologue 4
REBEL 2
Ferenc says that if they move across the river, we move back to the wall.
REBEL 3
And if they stay at the wall?
REBEL 4
We move to the Margaret Bridge.
GREGOR
(laughs slightly)
We move, they move.
(Serious again)
Lets go.
(He picks up his gun and they follow him out.)
END OF PROLOGUE
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I 1 5
Scene 1
(Bangkok, 1988. The lobby of the Bangkok Hilton Hotel. A large banner
behind reads: THE HILTON WELCOMES THE WORLD CHESS
CHAMPIONSHIP. As the scene begins members of the press,
FLORENCE, now in her thirties, and the ARBITER of the match are
waiting for an important arrival.)
(MUSIC #4: Freddies Entrance)
ARBITER
(checking his watch; to the press)
Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the 1988 World Chess Championship. Mr. Trumper appears
to be running late, so you may address the challenger
(Never missing a moment, FREDDIE TRUMPER comes down the
hallway, followed by a crowd.)
FREDDIE
WHAT A SCENE! WHAT A JOY!
WHAT A LOVELY SIGHT WHEN MY GAME IS THE BIG SENSATION!
HAS THE MOBS SPORTING TASTE ALTERED OVERNIGHT?
HAVE THEY FOUND NEW SOPHISTICATION?
NOT YET! THEY JUST WANNA SEE
IF THE NICE GUY BEATS THE BUM!
IF ITS EAST-WEST AND THE MONEYS SKY-HIGH!
FREDDIE & CHORUS
THEY ALL COME
(As they enter the meeting room there is pandemonium. Also at the table
are ANATOLY and MOLOKOV.)
ARBITER
Well, the champion has seen fit to join us. How lovely. Now
(but he is overrun by anxious REPORTERS)
AUSTRALIAN REPORTER
Mr. Trumper, do you think chess should be an Olympic sport?
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I 1 6
FREDDIE
What, and do it for free?
YOU CAN RAISE ALL YOU WANT
IF YOU RAISE THE ROOF!
SCREAM AND SHOUT,
AND THE GATE INCREASES!
BREAK THE RULES, BREAK THE BANK IM THE LIVING PROOF, THEY DONT CARE HOW I MOVE MY PIECES!
I KNOW IM THE BEST THERE IS, BUT ALL THEY WANT IS A SHOW!
WELL, THATS ALLRIGHT ILL BE GLAD TO OBLIGE!
FREDDIE & CHORUS
S.R.O., S.R.O.!
ARBITER
(yelling over the crowd)
Ladies and gentlemen, please!
(once they quiet down)
Now, you may address your questions to Freddie Trumper, the World Chess champion, and Mr.
Anatoly Sergievsky, the challenger.
(No surprise who they pick)
REPORTERS
Freddie!!!!
FREDDIE
You!
FRENCH REPORTER
(In French: Mr. Trumper, what is your) Monsieur Trumper, quelle est votre
FREDDIE
Next question!
AMERICAN REPORTER
What are your impressions of Bangkok so far, Freddie?
FREDDIE
Well, geezIm staying right here at the Hilton. Right down the blocks a McDonalds and a Burger King. Seems like Cleveland to me.
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I 1 7
(laughter)
ENGLISH REPORTER
In Budapest youre scheduled at the same time as the
FREDDIE
If we make it to Budapest. Hey, I could win them all here. He could just give up.
(FLORENCE gives him a look at this)
ARBITER
Now, some questions for Mr. Sergievsky.
GERMAN REPORTER
Mr. Sergievsky, this is only the second time that a match has been divided between two sites,
Bangkok and Budapest in this case. Is there a
MOLOKOV
I shall speak to that. Mr. Sergievsky plays where the World Chess Federation tells him to play.
The match sites are not under our control.
AUSTRALIAN REPORTER
Bangkoks got a reputation for a rather rich night life. (some laughter)
Either of you planning to partake while?
FREDDIE
Hey, Im in training. Maybe next time.
AMERICAN REPORTER
You probably brought all you need with you, anyway.
(laughter)
FREDDIE
(smiling)
Whats that supposed to mean?
AMERICAN REPORTER
Well, Miss Vassys not an unattractive woman, Freddie.
FREDDIE
Florence is my chess secondwhat are you implying?
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I 1 8
AMERICAN REPORTER
Forget it.
FREDDIE
No, I want to know
FLORENCE
(trying to stop this)
Freddie
FREDDIE
(ignoring her, to REPORTER)
Come here.
(awkward pause)
Cmere!
AMERICAN REPORTER
(as he approaches FREDDIE)
Look, it was a joke, okay?
(suddenly FREDDIE punches the REPORTER hard in the face and hurries
out. There is chaos; REPORTERS yelling questions.)
(MUSIC #5: Press Conference)
REPORTERS
WELL, WHAT DID I SAY?
HE'S OUT OF HIS TREE,
HE'S FINALLY FLIPPED AND BETWEEN YOU AND ME,
THOUGH HE SWEARS THE AMERICAN DREAM
IS CLEARLY THE BEST
HES NO ADVERTISEMENT FOR LIFE AND TIMES IN THE WEST!
(FLORENCE storms in, dominating their words with a powerful
outburst:)
FLORENCE
SMILE, YOUVE GOT YOUR FIRST
FLORENCE REPORTERS
EXCLUSIVE WELL, WHAT DID I SAY?
STORY! HE'S OUT OF HIS TREE,
HE'S FINALLY FLIPPED NOW YOU AND BETWEEN YOU AND ME,
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I 1 9
CAN BASK IN HIS HE'S NO HOPE OF RETAINING HIS CROWN
REFLECTED IN HIS FRAME OF MIND GLORY! IN FACT, HE SHOULDN'T HAVE COME HERE,
HE SHOULD HAVE RESIGNED!
IN THIS FRAME OF MIND,
NAKED, HE SHOULDNT COME, UNPROVOKED HE SHOULD RESIGN WHEN HE IS
YANKEE IN THIS FRAME OF MIND,
AGRESSION! HE SHOULDNT COME, HE SHOULD RESIGN WHEN HE IS
OH, WHAT IN THIS FRAME OF MIND,
A CREDIT HE SHOULDNT COME, TO YOUR HE SHOULD RESIGN!
GREAT PROFESSION!
(FLORENCE exits. The scene changes during the REPORTERS final words)
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 IN FACT, HE SHOULDN'T HAVE COME HERE,
HE SHOULD HAVE RESIGNED!
End of Scene
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I 2 10
Scene 2
(ANATOLYs hotel suite. ANATOLY SERGIEVSKY, the Russian World Chess Champion, and his second, IVAN MOLOKOV, enter the suite.
ANATOLY sits by a chess board and starts to practice)
ANATOLY
Its all a performanceit has to be.
MOLOKOV
Even I know his reputation.
ANATOLY
But to see it there in front of you
MOLOKOV
Yes, very amusing.
(NIKOLAI, MOLOKOVs assistant, enters with files in hand.)
NIKOLAI
Molokov, you have telephone messages.
(He hands them to MOLOKOV, who looks through them. To ANATOLY.)
Good luck, Sergievsky. The American is just a child.
MOLOKOV
(Handing ANATOLY a phone message)
From your wife. She called from home.
ANATOLY
When will you learnwhen Im in a match I have neither a wife nor a
MOLOKOV
A home?
(Beat. Continues to look through messages.)
When you are home I understand you dont call your wife either. But this is none of my business.
ANATOLY
Im here to play chess.
MOLOKOV
And Im here to help you play chess. (to NIKOLAI)
What else did you bring?
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I 2 11
NIKOLAI
(Handing file.)
The woman with Trumper. Florence Vassy.
ANATOLY
(without looking up)
An experienced second. Shes well-known. (beat)
You could have just asked me.
MOLOKOV
(reading the file)
Hungarian refugee. Left Budapest as a child. 1956.
(to himself)
Theyre not going to let her (he disregards it. To NIKOLAI)
Do they sleep together?
NIKOLAI
Rumor is they dont. She has her own room here. But were checking this out ourselves.
ANATOLY
(over chess board)
He needs only an answer, Nikolai, not a videotape.
MOLOKOV
Speak for yourself!
(He laughs. ANATOLY doesnt. To NIKOLAI) Hungarian women. I had a crush on one in Moscow. But just because I was Russian
ANATOLY
The sacrifices we Russian men have had to make for the cause of world peace.
(MOLOKOV nods and NIKOLAI exits. The phone rings; MOLOKOV goes
to answer it.)
MOLOKOV
(Into phone)
Hello? Ill be right down. (hangs up. As he goes to door)
Our ambassador has arrived.
ANATOLY
Our ambassador?
(MUSIC #6: Where I Want to Be)
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I 2 12
MOLOKOV
Didnt I tell you? Hes asked to play a single game against a Soviet champion.
ANATOLY
Tonight? No, Molokov
MOLOKOV
(at the door)
He went to university with Gorbachev.
ANATOLY
What does that have to do with
MOLOKOV
You have no choice.
(He exits. ANATOLY looks over the chess board.)
ANATOLY
WHO NEEDS A DREAM?
WHO NEEDS AMBITION?
WHOD BE THE FOOL IN MY POSITION?
ONE, I HAD DREAMS NOW THEYRE OBSESSIONS. HOPES BECAME NEEDS,
LOVERS POSSESSIONS.
THEN THEY MOVE IN OH, SO DISCREETLY.
SLOWLY AT FIRST,
SMILING TOO SWEETLY.
I OPENED DOORS THEY WALKED RIGHT THROUGH THEM.
CALLED ME THEIR FRIEND I HARDLY KNEW THEM.
NOW IM
ANATOLY & CHORUS
WHERE I WANT TO BE AND WHO I WANT TO BE
AND DOING WHAT I ALWAYS SAID I WOULD,
AND YET I FEEL I HAVENT WON AT ALL! RUNNING FOR MY LIFE AND NEVER LOOKING BACK
IN CASE THERES SOMEONE RIGHT BEHIND TO SHOOT ME DOWN
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I 2 13
AND SAY HE ALWAYS KNEW ID FALL!
ANATOLY
WHEN THE CRAZY WHEEL SLOWS DOWN,
WHERE WILL I BE? BACK WHERE I STARTED.
DONT GET ME WRONG IM NOT COMPLAINING. TIMES HAVE BEEN GOOD,
FAST, ENTERTAINING.
BUT WHATS THE POINT IF IM CONCEALING NOT ONLY LOVE,
ALL OTHER FEELINGS?
NOW IM
ANATOLY & CHORUS
WHERE I WANT TO BE AND WHO I WANT TO BE
AND DOING WHAT I ALWAYS SAID I WOULD,
AND YET I FEEL I HAVENT WON AT ALL! RUNNING FOR MY LIFE AND NEVER LOOKING BACK
IN CASE THERES SOMEONE RIGHT BEHIND TO SHOOT ME DOWN AND SAY HE ALWAYS KNEW ID FALL!
ANATOLY
WHEN THE CRAZY WHEEL SLOWS DOWN,
WHERE WILL I BE? BACK WHERE I STARTED.
(blackout)
End of Scene
-
I 3 14
Scene 3
(FREDDIEs suite. FLORENCE and FREDDIE are practicing chess. WALTER ANDERSON, FREDDIEs agent, is on the phone.)
WALTER
(Into phone)
Thirty thousand. He wont take a penny less. (calls)
Will you, Freddie?
(no response; into phone)
Hes adamant. Its thirty or nothing. (beat)
No, thirty.
(beat)
Its a deal. Twenty-five. (he hangs up and moves to FREDDIE)
Twenty five grand and it doesnt even have to be your foot in the picture!
FREDDIE
It doesnt?
WALTER
They can use any old foot they want. They put your signature across it, see. One ad. They dont even need to photograph you.
FLORENCE
Freddie, please. Concentrate.
WALTER
(starts to leave)
A photo session, I told them, was gonna cost real money. Excuse me, Im already latethe trade shows just beginning.
(WALTER exits)
FLORENCE
(Mimicking)
A photo session was going to cost real moneywhere did you find that guy, selling watches on Broadway?
FREDDIE
Ah, you just hate the idea of making money.
FLORENCE
I hate the idea of always talking about it.
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I 3 15
(beat)
Stick to the chess, Freddiedo what youre good at.
FREDDIE
Cmon, Florence, get off me.
FLORENCE
(suddenly serious)
Watch him. That is my advice.
FREDDIE
Sergievsky doesnt know what the hell to make of me after this morning.
FLORENCE
The Russians arent as dumb as you think. I mean, granted, Sergievsky may not have just sold his toes for twenty-five grand, but we can still have some respect for him.
(a pause)
And I didnt like that crack you made about Budapest.
FREDDIE
Whatcome on, it was a joke!
FLORENCE
Freddie, you know why I wanted us to do this
FREDDIE
I thought it was just your unbridled confidence in my talents.
(beatshe didnt find that funny, either. Sincerely) Well get there. Okay? Well get to Budapest. I promise.
(A pause. He takes her hand, she gives it a quick squeeze before going
back to the board.)
FLORENCE
Here. A pawn down.
(She takes off a pawn. FREDDIE stares at the board for a moment.)
FREDDIE
OkayBishop G-4.
FLORENCE
Knight C-7.
(FREDDIE moves, then stops. He smiles, realizing defeat.)
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I 3 16
FREDDIE
Okay. Very good. Whered you pick that up?
FLORENCE
A Sergievsky match in Volograd.
(beat. She smiles)
Ive been saving it.
FREDDIE
(laughs)
Okay, soI wont let myself get into a position like
FLORENCE
Sergievsky wasnt the one who made the move, Frederick. He was the one who got out of it.
FREDDIE.
(stunned)
What? No. No, thats not (pause, he studies the board intently)
No. Thats not possible.
FLORENCE
(teasing)
Sergievsky found a way out
FREDDIE
Well, you must have it wrong
(MUSIC #7: How Many Women)
FLORENCE
He got out!
(laughing)
Its not gonna be as easy as you think, Mr. Trumper! (she gets up and moves around the suite, teasing FREDDIE as she goes.
He stays relentlessly by the board.)
HOW MANY WOMEN WOULD DRIVE THEMSELVES CRAZY
BY ARGUING OVER A GAME OF CHESS?
NOT VERY MANYTHE WAY THINGS ARE GOING, THERELL SOON BE ONE LESS!
FREDDIE
DONT BELIEVE YOU, SWEETIE-PIE!
FLORENCE
(mock self-seriousness)
-
I 3 17
LISTEN, FREDDIEI TOO HAD AMBITIONS HOW DID I GET WAYLAID?
HOW CAN SUCH A FLOWER,
A SENSITIVE SOULA DELICATE CHILD! WIND UP AS A NURSEMAID
RESPECTABLY SET FOR THE GLITTERING PRIZES,
INSTEAD OF WHICH I LANDED YOU!
FREDDIE
YOULL GET YOUR PRIZES IM NINETY PERCENT OF THE WAY TO THE TOP OF THE HEAP!
(FLORENCE is legitimately taken aback by this)
FLORENCE
Oh, thanks TEN PERCENTYOU GOT ME CHEAP!
FREDDIE
(realizing his mistake)
No, no, FlorenceI meant we are ninety percent of the way
(FLORENCE continues her teasing, but theres a real edge to the complaints now. FREDDIEs struck a nerve.)
FLORENCE
HOW MANY WOMENARTICULATE WOMEN, WITH SOMETHING TO SHOUT ABOUT SPEND THEIR TIME
PLAYING A GAME IN WHICH SILENCE IS GOLDEN
AND SPEAKING A CRIME?
FREDDIE
MAYBE IF HE MOVED HIS KING
FLORENCE
ALL OF MY STRUGGLES FOR QUALIFICATION MY NIGHTS WITH GOETHE AND PROUST RECKLESSLY ABANDONED
FOR YOU! WHO THINKS CHECKOV IS KING TO G3 AND JOYCE, MY COLLEGE ROOMMATE!
BUT THEN WHEN I SHOW YOU A MOVE YOU CANT FATHOM I HAVE TO ADMIT, IT FEELS GREAT!
FREDDIE
GREAT NEWS FOR CHESS FANS!
-
I 3 18
(Making a triumphant move.)
YEAHTHATS HOW HE DID IT! YES, THATS HOW THE COMMMUNIST PLAYS!
FLORENCE
MAYBE I DESERVE A RAISE!
(A brief tense moment, then they both burst out laughing. FLORENCE
looks at the board and nods to FREDDIE.)
FLORENCE
Nice. Maybe you are ready for the Russians.
FREDDIE
Yeah, butare they ready for me?
FLORENCE
I think the more important question isare they ready for Walters little trade show?
End of Scene
-
I 4 19
Scene 4
(The Chess arena, where a loud, garish mob of MERCHANDISERS are
selling their wares in WALTERs gargantuan trade show. WALTER enters, cane and Styrofoam hat in hand.)
(MUSIC #8: Merchandisers)
WALTER
WHETHER YOU ARE PRO OR ANTI,
OR COULD NOT CARE LESS
WALTER & CHORUS
WE ARE HERE TO TELL YOU
WE ARE HERE TO SELL YOU CHESS!
NOT A CHANCE OF YOU ESCAPING FROM OUR WILES WEVE LOCKED THE DOORS, WEVE BLOCKED THE AISLES! WEVE A FRANCHISE WORTH EXPLOITING,
AND WE WILLYES, WE WILL! WHEN IT COMES TO MERCHANDISING, WE COULD KILL!
WHEN YOU GET UP
WALTER
WHEN YOU GET UP IN THE MORNING
TILL YOU CRASH AT NIGHT, YOU WILL FIND YOURSELF SURROUNDED
BY OUR COPYRIGHT.
BRUSH YOUR TEETH WITH CHECKERED TOOTHPASTE WEAR OUR VESTS
CHORUS
OUR KINGS AND QUEENS ON BOUNCING BREASTS!
WALTER
YOU COULD EVEN BUY A SET AND LEARN TO PLAY!
WALTER & CHORUS
WE DONT MINDWELL SELL YOU SOMETHING ANYWAY!
WE'VE DONE ALL OUR MARKET RESEARCH,
AND OUR FINDINGS SHOW
THAT THIS GAME OF CHESS COULD BE AROUND
A MONTH OR SO!
MAYBE IT'S A BIT CONFUSING
-
I 4 20
FOR A GAME,
BUT RUBIK'S CUBES WERE MUCH THE SAME!
WALTER
IN THE END THE WHOLE WORLD BOUGHT ONE ALL WERE GONE!
WALTER & CHORUS
BY WHICH TIME, WE MERCHANDISERS
HAD MOVED ON!
BY WHICH TIME, WE HAD MOVED ON!
(Their show finished, they recede back to the sidelines. FLORENCE
enters, across a disapproving MOLOKOV accompanied by ANATOLY. An
ASSISTANT rises to make announcement)
ASSISTANT
Ladies and gentlementhe Arbiter of this match, Mr. Constantine Stanos.
(The ARBITERa large, burly figure, enters. Applause from spectators and delegates)
ARBITER
Thank youthank you very much. Respected guests, delegates, members of the pressand of course, our sponsorswelcome to this World Chess Championship. I understand many of you have come a long way to be here, so let me announce what I know youve all been waiting forthe sponsors lounge, with complimentary bar, is finally open.
(much applause, spectators and reporters filter in and out. The ARBITER
moves to FLORENCE and MOLOKOV)
ARBITER
AhMiss Vassy, good to see you. Have you met
FLORENCE
Mr. Molokov, yes.
MOLOKOV
Ah, youve learned my name. Im flattered. (Beat. To ARBITER)
Mr. Arbiter, I have just a couple of minor points before we begin the matchthe twenty-four-hour time limit to a break; Im worried now that this will especially penalize my player.
FLORENCE
Hell be needing plenty of rest?
-
I 4 21
ARBITER
Yes, Im sorrybreak limits are final.
MOLOKOV
I see.
(beat)
And then theres the chairs.
FLORENCE
We agreed on Swedish chairsneutral chairs.
ARBITER
Indeed
MOLOKOV
We brought with us two very comfortable Finnish chairs.
(beat)
Finlands neutral.
ARBITER
Well, you see
FLORENCE
But are the chairs?
MOLOKOV
What could one do with chairs?
FLORENCE
Oh, Im all earstell me.
ARBITER
Excuse me!
(beat, FLORENCE and MOLOKOV are quiet)
Thank you. Im sorry, but I dont feel were making very meaningful progress here. Unless there are any serious objections? (beat, no response)
Good. Match begins in one hour.
(he exits. MOLOKOV moves to WALTER at the side of the stage,
FLORENCE moves towards a nearby ANATOLY, reading a book.)
ANATOLY
A shame about the rest days.
-
I 4 22
FLORENCE
Hm?
ANATOLY
Being limited to a day. I was hoping to enjoy a longer break.
FLORENCE
You get tired, do you?
ANATOLY
Hay fever. I cant help it.
FLORENCE
(smiling)
I should start wearing straw hats.
(On the other side of the stage, MOLOKOV greets WALTER)
MOLOKOV
(extending a hand)
Mr.Andersson, is it?
WALTER
(shaking it)
Mr. Molokov.
MOLOKOV
Quite a show.
WALTER
Thank you. Makes you feel very
MOLOKOV
Proud to be an American?
ANATOLY
(to FLORENCE)
You seem so distrustfulI hope youre not one of those right-wing conservative Americans
FLORENCE
Well, no. Not yet. But keep talking.
(They laugh, and continue to talk. MOLOKOV watches them with interest.
Delegates begin to gather around, including NIKOLAI and BEN)
(MUSIC #9: U.S. vs. U.S.S.R.)
-
I 4 23
WALTER
What is it, Mr. Molokov?
MOLOKOV
Oha pleasure to see opposing sides getting along so well.
BEN
Times have moved on.
NIKOLAI
The world is changing.
MOLOKOV
NO ONE CAN DENY THESE ARE ENCOURAGING TIMES!
CHORUS
NO ONE CAN DENY THESE ARE ENCOURAGING TIMES!
MOLOKOV
ITS THE U.S. VERSUS U.S.S.R., YET WE MORE OR LESS ARE
CHORUS
NO ONE CAN DENY THESE ARE ENCOURAGING TIMES!
MOLOKOV
TO OUR CREDIT, PUTTING ALL THAT ASIDE, WE HAVE SWALLOWED OUR PRIDE!
CHORUS
THESE ARE OPTIMISTIC AND ENCOURAGING TIMES!
WALTER
IT REALLY DOESNT MATTER WHO COMES OUT ON TOP,
WALTER & CHORUS
WHO GETS THE CHOP
MOLOKOV
NO-ONES WAY OF LIFE IS THREATENED BY A FLOP!
AMERICAN CHORUS
BUT WERE GONNA SMASH THEIR BASTARD! MAKE HIM WANNA CHANGE HIS NAME!
-
I 4 24
TAKE HIM TO THE CLEANERS AND DEVASTATE HIM WIPE HIM OUT, HUMILIATE HIM!
RUSSIAN CHORUS
WE DONT WANT THE WHOLE WORLD SAYING THEY CANT EVEN WIN A GAME! WE HAVE NEVER RECKONED ON COMING SECOND THERES NO USE IN LOSING!
MOLOKOV
ITS THE RED FLAG UP AGAINST STARS AND STRIPES
WALTER
BUT WERE PEACE-LOVING TYPES!
CHORUS
NO-ONE CAN DENY THESE ARE ENCOURAGING TIMES!
BEN
ITS A SWEET HAIL-FELLOW-WELL-MET AFFAIR
NIKOLAI
FOR BOTH EAGLE AND BEAR!
CHORUS
NO-ONE CAN DENY THESE ARE ENCOURAGING TIMES!
MOLOKOV
HOW GOOD TO FEEL THAT AS THIS GREAT EVENT BEGINS,
IT UNDERPINS
OUR QUEST FOR PEACE, THE BONDS OF COMMON INTEREST
OF EAST AND WEST
CHORUS
AS LONG AS OUR MAN WINS
ALL
AS LONG AS OUR MAN WINS!
End of Scene
-
I 5 25
Scene 5
(MUSIC #10: Chess No. 1 (Instrumental))
(The Arena. During a brief fanfare, ANATOLY and FREDDIE approach
the chessboard, sit, and begin to play. They play for quite a while, when
FREDDIE looks up at ANATOLY, who is eating a cup of yogurt (he had
eaten another cup at the start of play). FREDDIE looks at the yogurt, then
back at ANATOLY.)
FREDDIE
What is that?
ANATOLY
(holding the spoon a few inches from his mouth)
What?
FREDDIE
(points to the yogurt)
That.
ANATOLY
This is yogurt.
(beat)
Would you like some?
FREDDIE
(Stands and yells.)
Check it! I want someone checking that yogurt!
(To ANATOLY.)
Put it down!
(A brief pauseno one knows what to do. The ARBITER finally moves to ANATOLY, then stops.)
ARBITER
Check it for what?
FREDDIE
Check it!
ANATOLY
This is crazywhy should I let you look at my yogurt?
(The ARBITER is caught in the middle)
-
I 5 26
FREDDIE
Its strawberry yogurt!
ANATOLY
This is true.
FREDDIE
(pleased)
And before that it was blueberry! And before that, it was blueberry!
(Short pause)
ARBITER
So?
FREDDIE
What are you, stupid? Hes getting signals with the choice of yogurt. Hes cheating!
ARBITER
Mr. Trumper
FREDDIE
Dont be so damn nave!
ANATOLY
Is this a joke?
FREDDIE
Look, I demand he no longer be served yogurtand I want an apology!
ANATOLY
(incredulous)
What?!
FLORENCE
Freddie, what are you doing?
FREDDIE
Florence, look, I think Im being very generous here. I could demand he be disqualified! (beat)
Come on.
(pause. To ARBITER)
Well, call him on it, its your job! (No response)
Okay, I get it. Youre working for him.
-
I 5 27
ARBITER
Mr. Trumper! Would you please
FREDDIE
Forget it. This match is historyits over!
(FREDDIE storms out. The CROWD gasps. Then silence, as everyone
stares at the ARBITER.)
ARBITER
(beat; claps his hands together)
Break for lunch!
(MUSIC #11: Quartet)
(Chaos, REPORTERS run off after FREDDIE. The arena is slowly
emptied except for ANATOLY, FLORENCE, MOLOKOV, and the
ARBITER)
ANATOLY
(To FLORENCE)
Pity, you cannot always choose who you work for.
FLORENCE
True. And Ive noticed you seem to have the same problem.
MOLOKOV
WE WISHNO, MUST MAKE OUR DISGUST FOR THIS ABUSE PERFECTLY CLEAR!
WERE HERE FOR CHESSARE THE U.S.? IF SO, WHY FOUL THE ATMOSPHERE?
FLORENCE MOLOKOV
I MUST PROTEST WE WISH OUR DELEGATION NO, MUST
HAS A HOST OF VALID MAKE OUR
POINTS TO RAISE. DISGUST
OUR PLAYERS SPORTING ATTITUDES AT THIS BEYOND ALL PRAISE, ABUSE
AS ANY NEUTRAL WOULD ATTEST PERFECTLY CLEAR! (To ANATOLY)
THOUGH WE CONCEDE WERE HERE THE FACT YOUR MASTERS FOR CHESS BEND THE RULES IS MAYBE ARE THE
NOT YOUR FAULT! U.S.?
IF THEY WITHDRAW THEIR HOW CAN
-
I 5 28
PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSAULT, THEN YOU MAKE
UNDER PROTEST HELL PROCEED! SUCH A CLAIM?
MOLOKOV ARBITER
IF YOUR MANS SO I CALL SWEET, THEN WHY HIS THIS TUNE,
FIGHTING TALK? NO ONES IF HE SAYS WE IMMUNE
CHEAT, THEN WHY ON TO MY
EARTH DID HE GO POWER
TAKE A WALK? IN THE HALL!
FLORENCE MOLOKOV
I AM NOT SURPRISED WHY LET
HE WANTED HIM LOOSE?
FRESHER AIR HELL SOON ONCE HE REALIZED REDUCE
THERE WAS NO HOPE THIS GREAT
OF YOUR GUYS EVENT
PLAYING FAIR! TO A BRAWL!
HOW SAD ITS VERY SAD TO SEE TO SEE THE ANCIENT
WHAT USED AND DISTINGUISHED GAME
TO BE THAT USED TO BE
FLORENCE & MOLOKOV
A MODEL OF DECORUM AND TRANQUILITY
BECOME LIKE ANY OTHER SPORT A BATTLEGROUND FOR RIVAL IDEOLOGIES
TO SLUG IT OUT WITH GLEE!
ANATOLY MOLOKOV
I WOULD SAY WE WISH, NO MUST
WITH REGARD TO HIM, MAKE OUR DISGUST
IT IS HARD TO AT THIS ABUSE
REBUT PERFECTLY CLEAR!
EVER- WERE HERE FOR CHESS GROWING SUSPICIONS ARE THE U.S.?
MY OPPOSITIONS IF SO, WHY FOUL THE A NUT. ATMOSPHERE?
FLORENCE ARBITER
I WOULD HAVE SAID I MUST
YOUD UNDERSTAND THE INSIST STRAIN AND PRESSURE GETTING THAT YOU
-
I 5 29
WHERE HES GOT, DESIST, FOR THEN YOUD SIMPLY CALL HIM IF YOU HIGHLY STRUNG AND NOT VALUE
IMPLY THAT HE WAS OFF HIS HEAD! YOUR LIVELIHOOD!
ANATOLY MOLOKOV
BUT HOW IT SEEMS TO US
CAN YOU THERES LITTLE POINT IN WORK FOR WAITING HERE ALL NIGHT FOR
ONE WHO HIS RETURN.
TREATS YOU AND SINCE A PEACFUL MATCH
LIKE DIRT? IS OUR SOLE CONCERN WE
PAY MUST BE GOOD! WONT MAKE AN OFFICIAL FUSS.
FLORENCE
IM NOT GETTING RICH! IN SHORT, MY ONLY WE RISE
INTEREST ABOVE
IS IN SOMETHING YOUR GUYS WHICH GIVES ME A TANTRUMS,
CHANCE OF WORKING DRAMAS,
WITH THE BEST! DIRTY TRICKS!
ANATOLY ARBITER
I CAN ONLY GET THIS
SAY, I HOPE YOUR STRAIGHTI DREAM COMES TRUE, WILL NOT
TILL THAT FAR-OFF DAY, STAND BY
I HOPE YOU COPE WHILE YOU
WITH HELPING PLAY AT
NUMBER TWO! POLITICS!
FLORENCE & ANATOLY MOLOKOV & ARBITER
HOW ITS VERY SAD SAD TO SEE THE ANCIENT
TO AND DISTINGUISHED GAME
SEE THAT USED TO BE
ALL
A MODEL OF DECORUM AND TRANQUILITY
BECOME LIKE ANY OTHER SPORT A BATTLEGROUND FOR RIVAL IDEOLOGIES
TO SLUG IT OUT WITH GLEE!
FLORENCE ARBITER ANATOLY MOLOKOV
IT IS VERY ITS SO SAD TO SAD HOW SAD
-
I 5 30
SAD TO
SEE SEE A GAME IT IS VERY TO SEE
THAT SAD TO
SAD TO SEE A REALLY SEE A DIS-
SHOULD
GAME THAT BE THIS DIS- TINGUISHED
ONCE USED TINGUISHED
TO AND
BE A MODEL LIKE A MODEL OLD GAME GAME THAT
OF DE- THAT
OF CALM AND CORUM USED TO, ALWAYS
TRAN- THAT
QUILITY BECOME USED TO BE USED TO BE
TRAN-
SAD WHEN IT JUST LIKE ANY QUILITY LIKE A
BE- OTHER
COMES LIKE SPORT A HAS BECOME MODEL
ANY BATTLE-
GROUND
FOR
OTHER SPORT RIVAL IDE- BATTLE- OF DE-
GROUND
JUST A OLOGIES TO SLUG IT OUT CORUM
BATTLE- SLUG WITH GLEE
GROUND, A SLUG IT OUT ANY OTHER AND OF
BATTLE- SPORT
GROUND FOR SLUG IT OUT LIKE A PURE TRAN-
IDE- BATTLE-
GROUND
OLOGIES IT IS VERY SAD TO SEE QUILITY
ITS VERY SAD SAD SO SAD SO IT IS VERY TO SEE THE TO SEE SAD SAD TO SEE
ANCIENT THE
AND DISTIN- ITS A TO OLD DISTIN- GUISHED GUISHED
GAME GAME
THAT THAT
USED TO BE A BATTLE- SEE A USED TO BE
GROUND
FOR
MODEL OF RIVAL IDE- MODEL OF MODEL OF
DECORUM DECORUM TRAN-
AND OLOGIES AND QUILITY
TRANQUILITY TRANQUILITY
-
I 5 31
BE-
COME LIKE IT BECOMES JUST LIKE WHEN IT BE-
ANY ANY
OTHER OTHER
SPORT A BATTLE- SPORT HOW COMES A
GROUD SAD BATTLE-
FOR
LIKE A IDEOLOGIES TO SEE GROUND THEN IT
BATTLE- A BATTLE- HOW THE IS VERY
GROUND GROUND GAME
FOR RIVAL THAT
IDEOLOGIES ITS VERY SAD USED TO BE SAD, ITS VERY SAD
ITS VERY SAD TO SEE A TRANQUILITY WHEN THIS GAME ANCIENT
GAME BE-
SO SAD TO SEE A BATTLE- A BATTLE- COMES A
GROUND GROUND BATTLE-
GROUND
ALL
A PLACE TO SLUG IT OUT WITH GLEE!
ARBITER
(wearily)
Mr. Sergievsky, you wouldnt by any chance consider abstaining from yogurt
MOLOKOV
Are you suggesting?
ARBITER
Im not suggesting anythingexcept that we continue on with this match.
ANATOLY
I will be in my roompacking. (Turns to FLORENCE, shakes his head)
Such a waste.
(He leaves. The ARBITER turns to MOLOKOV)
ARBITER
People have invested millions of dollars in us, Mr. Molokov. In chess.
MOLOKOV
This is not my problem
-
I 5 32
ARBITER
It bloody well is!
(to the both of them)
So what do you suggest we do? Let it all collapse in just one day? Let selfishness dictate to us?
Not while Im the Arbiter of this match! (beat)
This is the message I want you to get across. Tomorrow morning, I expect to see two smiling
players at the table.
(he starts to leave, then stops.)
Ill amend that. I dont give a shit if theyre smiling. (yells)
I dont care if theyre bleedingtwo warm bodies are whats required! Thats all!
(He exits. MOLOKOV and FLORENCE alone. Pause)
MOLOKOV
(Shakes his head, laughs slightly)
Yogurtit would be funny if it werent so serious. (beat)
It is serious?
FLORENCE
I cant imagine Freddie playing without an apology.
MOLOKOV
But if Trumper leaves, what does that get him? He wont get a second chance.
FLORENCE
Freddie walks now, he says he caught the commie cheating. Who wont believe him? Hell be a herohe could probably run for office.
MOLOKOV
But youyou would be unable to attend the match site in Budapest. (beat)
I am correct in presuming thats why youve joined the tournament?
FLORENCE
Thats my own business, Mr. Molokov, thank you.
MOLOKOV
And as I understand it, they are already electing to bar you from the site, so surely Trumpers behavior
FLORENCE
Excuse metheyre barring me from Budapest? (beat)
-
I 5 33
What did you do?
MOLOKOV
Me? Im a chess second.
FLORENCE
Bullshit. Dont you think we know who you work for, Mr. Molokov? The State Department briefed us before we came here.
MOLOKOV
My purpose here is the game of chess.
FLORENCE
Ill bet you love all kinds of games.
MOLOKOV
Florence Vassy. Left Hungary 1956. Mother dead, Father lost, presumed dead. Brought up by a
Lawrence Osborne, professor of ancient history, Yale University. We have been briefed about
you as well.
(pause)
Miss Vassy, you must believe I had nothing to do with this. When I learned of your involvement
I made a few calls and discovered the Federation was looking to halt your entry to Budapest. I
was told it was someone in your delegation who elected the change.
FLORENCE
(to herself)
Walter
MOLOKOV
Im sorry?
FLORENCE
Nothing.
(beat, she gets up)
Well, Mr. Molokov, it seems we have work to do.
MOLOKOV
So this business with Mr. Trumper?
FLORENCE
A meeting. Between the two players.
(beat)
Tonight?
MOLOKOV
Must this meeting be in public?
-
I 5 34
(FLORENCE considers this)
FLORENCE
I see no need for more publicity.
MOLOKOV
(Quickly)
Well, then I suggest our hotel room.
FLORENCE
(laughing)
Oh, very funny!
MOLOKOV
I know a private place. A restaurant.
FLORENCE
Yeah, I know restaurants as well.
MOLOKOV
Let us choose at random, then. I have a Bangkok food guide.
(He takes it out of his pocket)
FLORENCE
I have the very same one (She takes hers out of her purse)
Well use mine.
MOLOKOV
Theyre the same.
FLORENCE
So theres no problem with using mine.
(beat)
MOLOKOV
I open, you point.
FLORENCE
Agreed.
(He opens. She points, but before they look:)
-
I 5 35
MOLOKOV
Lets make it the third below the one youve touched.
FLORENCE
The fourth
BOTH
The second!
(beat)
FLORENCE MOLOKOV
Okay. Agreed.
MOLOKOV
(Reads)
The Golden Mountain Cafe.
FLORENCE
There are mountains in Bangkok?
MOLOKOV
It would appear they found one.
FLORENCE
Sounds ideal.
(She gets up and gathers her things.)
Ill see you tonight.
MOLOKOV
Yes. And Miss Vassy (she turns)
1956 was a long time ago.
FLORENCE
Not to me.
(she exits)
End of Scene
-
I 6 36
Scene 6
(FREDDIEs suite. WALTER is on the phone)
WALTER
(into phone)
A lot of nerve those guys have; yogurt, think of it! Nothings sacred. I tell you, they cant play without cheating. Its their nature. (beat)
Freddies completely disillusionedhe came here to play chess!
FLORENCE
(entering from the hall)
Wheres Freddie?
WALTER
Shh!
(into phone)
Right. I think thats the point. (FLORENCE searches the room)
Thats what Im sayingif you cant trust the Russians over chess, how the hell are you gonna trust them with, say, an arms control deal? I mean, thats basic common sense right there. But then what do I know?
FLORENCE
(very frustrated)
Where is he?
WALTER
(covering the speaker)
Shut up.
(FLORENCE backs off, but as WALTER returns to the phone she moves to
the telephone and innocently leans down on the buttons, disconnecting the
call)
WALTER
(into the phone)
I mean it, what do I know. I used to be a liberal myself, but that was back in the Sixties (the call is disconnected. yells)
What the hell are you doingthat was the L.A. Times!
FLORENCE
Where did he go?
-
I 6 37
WALTER
(starting to dial again)
It took me twenty minutes to make that connection!
FLORENCE
God dammit, Walter, just tell me!
(short pause. WALTER hangs up the phone and moves away)
WALTER
How the hell should I know where Freddie is? Youre the nursemaid, I thought. Maybe he got tired of being treated like he didnt know anything
FLORENCE
Who are you?
WALTER
(taken aback)
What?
FLORENCE
Who are you? What do you want with Freddie?
WALTER
I want him to be rich. To recognize his potential.
(putting on an air)
Chess games come and chess games go, but money
FLORENCE
Why do I not believe this?
(beat)
Whatever, I dont have to put up with this. If Freddie shows up, tell him Ill be at the Arbiters quarters
WALTER
What the hell will you (realization)
Oh, the Budapest thing.
FLORENCE
(sharply)
Right. The Budapest thing.
WALTER
Hey, dont look at me like thatI think its a shame youre not going.
-
I 6 38
FLORENCE
Spare me the niceties.
WALTER
Whatyou dont think I had anything to do with this?
FLORENCE
You follow the slime, you find the slug.
(FREDDIE coughs. He is standing at the door, holding up brochures)
FREDDIE
(dryly)
Wouldnt want to go home without seeing some of the sights. (reads)
Sugar Shack. Girls Girls Girls. Ever been there, Walter?
WALTER
Well, thats not something you confess in front of a lady.
FREDDIE.
True. Get out of here.
WALTER
(to FLORENCE as he leaves)
See. Hes the boss. Ill be in my room.
(He exits. A brief, tense pause.)
FREDDIE
What if I told youtoday was all my idea?
FLORENCE
Then Id say it was the first time you pulled something like that without talking it over with me.
FREDDIE
What if I said I did it spontaneously?
FLORENCE
Only bad chess players move spontaneously, Freddie, and thats one thing youre not.
FREDDIE
I think making the point about Russians cheating is worthwhile in itself.
FLORENCE
Since when?
-
I 6 39
(pause. She hands him a piece of paper)
Here, were meeting Sergievsky at this restaurant at ten oclock.
FREDDIE
And hell apologize?
FLORENCE
Hell meet us. Thats enough.
FREDDIE
Not for me!
FLORENCE
What are you doing? This isnt the Freddie Trumper who lived just to play chess!
FREDDIE
(turns on her, speaking over part of her line)
Who was happy in ten-dollar shirts and playing chess games for the thrill of it? Youre right.
FLORENCE
Freddie, if you dont go to this meeting, I might not get to go to Budapest. Look
FREDDIE
Enough about Budapest! What about now?
FLORENCE
This meeting is important to me!
FREDDIE
(raising his voice)
Well, this game is important to me! I want to fulfill my potential!
FLORENCE
Oh, grow up!
FREDDIE
(yells)
You work for me!
(MUSIC #12: The American and Florence)
FLORENCE
(screams at him in anger)
YOU WANT TO LOSE YOUR ONLY FRIEND?
WELL, KEEP IT UPYOURE DOING FINE! WHY THIS HUMILIATION?
-
I 6 40
WHY TREAT ME LIKE A FOOL?
IVE TAKEN SHIT FOR SEVEN YEARS, AND I WONT TAKE IT ANY MORE!
FREDDIE
IM ONLY TEASING SOVIETS WITH GENTLE BONHOMIE AND YOUVE A BETTER REASON TO BE ANTI-THEM
THAN ME!
FLORENCE
THERES A TIME AND THERES A PLACE!
FREDDIE
Well, how about here and now? Are you for me or for them?
FLORENCE
THERES A TIME AND THERES A PLACE!
(FLORENCE breaks away and moves to the bed, clearly very shaken by
the argument. FREDDIE moves to her slowly, and the CHORUS echoes
his words from the wings.)
FREDDIE & CHORUS
1956: BUDAPEST IS RISING.
1956: BUDAPEST IS RISING.
(FLORENCE is transfixed by the words, almost paralyzed. She sits still on
the bed as FREDDIE approaches her)
FREDDIE
ID HAVE THOUGHT YOUD SUPPORT ANY ATTACK ON THESE PEOPLE!
CHORUS
1956: BUDAPEST IS RISING.
FREDDIE
ON THE PEOPLE WHO RAN
MINDLESSLY OVER YOUR CHILDHOOD!
DONT LET THEM FOOL YOUFOR THIRTY YEARS ON THEYRE THE SAME!
FLORENCE & CHORUS
1956: BUDAPEST IS FIGHTING.
1956: BUDAPEST IS FALLING
-
I 6 41
FREDDIE
THEY SEE CHESS AS A WAR PLAYING WITH PAWNS JUST LIKE POLAND!
FLORENCE
1956BUDAPEST IS DYING
FREDDIE
IF YOU WALK OUT ON ME,
THEY WILL HAVE WON THE FIRST BATTLE!
WOULDNT YOUR FATHER HAVE BEGGED YOU TO STAY IN THE GAME?
(This snaps her out of it. She rises and advances on FREDDIE)
FLORENCE
HE WOULDBUT HE DIDNT KNOW YOU! HED LOATHE YOUR BEHAVIOR, AND SO DO I! WHYD YOU HAVE TO DO THIS TO ME?
(She pushes FREDDIE out of the apartment and slams the door. Alone,
she slumps to the floor and cries.)
(MUSIC #13: Someone Elses Story)
FLORENCE
LONG AGO,
IN SOMEONE ELSES LIFETIME, SOMEONE WITH MY NAME,
WHO LOOKED A LOT LIKE ME,
CAME TO KNOW
A MAN AND MADE A PROMISE HE ONLY HAD TO SAY,
AND THATS WHERE SHE WOULD BE. LATELY,
ALTHOUGH THE FEELINGS RUN JUST AS DEEP,
THE PROMISE SHE MADE HAS GROWN IMPOSSIBLE TO KEEP,
AND YET, I WISH IT WASNT SO. WILL HE MISS ME IF I GO?
(she gets up and moves through the suite)
IN A WAY,
ITS SOMEONE ELSES STORY. I DONT SEE MYSELF
-
I 6 42
AS TAKING PART AT ALL.
YESTERDAY,
A GIRL THAT I WAS FOND OF
FINALLY COULD SEE THE WRITING ON THE WALL.
SADLY,
THE WORDS DESCRIBED AN EMPTY AFFAIR,
AND SADDER THAN THAT, SHE KNEW HE WOULDNT EVEN CARE. AND THOUGH THERES NOTHING LEFT TO SAY, WOULD HE LISTEN IF I STAY?
ITS ALL VERY WELL TO SAY YOU FOOLITS NOW OR NEVER! I COULD BE CHOOSING
NO CHOICES WHATSOEVER
I COULD BE
IN SOMEONE ELSES STORY IN SOMEONE ELSES LIFE AND HE COULD BE IN MINE!
I DONT SEE A REASON TO BE LONELY I COULD TAKE MY CHANCES
FURTHER DOWN THE LINE.
AND IF THAT GIRL I KNEW SHOULD ASK MY ADVICE,
OH, I WOULDNT HESISTATE, SHE NEEDNT ASK ME TWICE GO NOW! ID TELL HER THAT FOR FREE. TROUBLE IS, THE GIRL IS ME.
THE STORY IS, THE GIRL IS ME.
End of Scene
-
I 7 43
Scene 7
(The Golden Mountain Cafe. MOLOKOV is seated at a table while
ANATOLY paces the restaurant impatiently. He walks to another table,
and sees a RUSSIAN MAN seated, eating inconspicuously. ANATOLY
smiles and moves back to MOLOKOV. Finally:)
MOLOKOV
Golden temples and artificial mountains Im relieved this chess match has not been the boring assignment I had feared.
ANATOLY
This is ridiculoushow long must we wait for this apology?
MOLOKOV
Be patient, Anatolythey will come, and then we can get on with
ANATOLY
With what? You have yet another petty bureaucrat for me to play against this evening?
MOLOKOV
Those petty bureaucrats give you the chance to play!
ANATOLY
They give me nothing.
MOLOKOV
Careful what you say, Anatolyespecially in a public place like this. (FLORENCE enters. MOLOKOV sees her)
Here they areMiss Vassy!
(FLORENCE sees them and moves to the table, pretending to be
surprised.)
FLORENCE
Oh, hello! What a surprisewe must have the same Good Food Guide.
MOLOKOV
Of course you know
FLORENCE
Yes, hello.
MOLOKOV
(to ANATOLY)
Do you mind if she joins us?
-
I 7 44
FLORENCE
Oh, I wouldnt want to intrude
ANATOLY
Wheres Trumper? (beat)
Molokov told me why were here.
FLORENCE
Idont know where he is.
MOLOKOV
Why not?
FLORENCE
Hes probably out with his agent.
MOLOKOV
Anderson. Yes, yes, I know him.
FLORENCE
How do you know him?
MOLOKOV
Our paths keep crossing.
ANATOLY
(to FLORENCE)
I told Molokov he wouldnt apologize.
MOLOKOV
Maybe I can trace him. I shall need to make a call or twoif you would excuse me.
(He gets up and leaves. FLORENCE seats herself at the table)
FLORENCE
(as MOLOKOV exits)
How can you? (beat. To ANATOLY)
Do you have someone following Freddie?
ANATOLY
I dont. (beat)
Dont you have someone who follows me?
-
I 7 45
FLORENCE
(shocked)
Whatno, of course not! You dont think Im
ANATOLY
No, of course not.
(awkward pause)
Are you going to order something?
FLORENCE
II dont know whats good.
ANATOLY
Let me ask.
(to the RUSSIAN MAN at the other table, in Russian: Hows the fish?) Cock REE-bah?
RUSSIAN MAN
(in Russian: Excellent) Ot-LEECH-nai-yah.
FLORENCE
Hes with you?
ANATOLY
(shrugs)
I guess so.
FLORENCE
Then why is he sitting? (she stops herself)
ANATOLY
You cannot always choose
BOTH
Who you work for.
FLORENCE
Yeah, well, I can.
(she grabs the bottle of wine)
Do you mind if I?
ANATOLY
Ohlet me.
-
I 7 46
(pours her a small glass of wine.)
So, youre leaving Trumper?
FLORENCE
(grabs the bottle herself and keeps pouring)
I didnt say that. I shouldnt have said anything.
ANATOLY
Well, you know, someone like youYou could do better.
FLORENCE
Someonelike me? How do you know what Im like? (beat)
Im sorry. Im a little on edge tonight. Lets not argue.
ANATOLY
Allright.
(awkward pause)
Soare you enjoying the mountain?
FLORENCE
(distracted)
Such as it is, yes.
ANATOLY
I cant help but notice your attention seems to be focusedelsewhere. (beat)
Miss Vassy, I dont mean to pry
FLORENCE
Oh, noyoure fine (beat)
You know whatFlorence. Call me Florence. (beat)
This whole match has been Miss Vassy this and Miss Vassy that. Itd be nice for someone to call me by my actual name for once.
ANATOLY
As you wish, MiFlorence. (indicating himself)
Anatoly.
FLORENCE
Anatoly.
-
I 7 47
ANATOLY
So, Florence, if I might askabout what has put you on edge this evening?
FLORENCE
(pause. She debates whether to tell him)
II was born in Budapest, Anatoly.
ANATOLY
Oh.
FLORENCE
I lived there when I was very young. Then the uprising happened, and my father smuggled me
out to America. I havent seen him or my home since then.
ANATOLY
ImIm very sorry.
FLORENCE
No, itsits been thirty years. Ive had some time to process it. (they laugh slightly)
But, when I found out the sites for the tournament would be split, and one of the sites was
Budapest, II had to go. And I found out today theyre not going to let me in.
ANATOLY
Whatwhy?
FLORENCE
Something to do with the Summit. Apparently the American delegation is trying to appease the
Russian delegation, andIm not allowed to go.
ANATOLY
I see.
(beat)
Terrible, when politics interferes with chess.
FLORENCE
And people.
ANATOLY
Yes.
(beat)
And if the Russian delegation had no reason to be involved with the match, no doubt you would
be allowed to go.
FLORENCE
What?
-
I 7 48
ANATOLY
Nothing. Nothing at all.
(beat)
So your desire to go to Budapest
FLORENCE
ImIm sorry, can we talk about something else?
ANATOLY
Ohby all means. If you like.
FLORENCE
Its justits been a very stressful day, and
ANATOLY
No, noI understandits perfectly allright
FLORENCE
My gosh, were arguing again, arent we? (she laughs)
I dont want that.
ANATOLY
(quickly)
Oh, neither do I.
(another awkward pause)
FLORENCE
Soare you married?
ANATOLY
Uh, in a manner of speaking.
FLORENCE
Oh, I see.
ANATOLY
I doubt that you do
FLORENCE
(quickly)
Oh, noI didnt mean to suggest
-
I 7 49
ANATOLY
(teasing)
I thought you said we werent going to argue.
FLORENCE
Thats true. (laughs)
Sowe wont argue.
(the MAN from the other table calls to ANATOLY)
RUSSIAN MAN
(in Russian: Do you have any salt) Ooh vas YEST soil?
FLORENCE
Whatwhat did he say?
ANATOLY
(quickly)
He said you have very lovely eyes.
FLORENCE
He said that?
(blushes)
Hehe cant even see my eyes.
RUSSIAN MAN
(repeats, in Russian: Do you have any salt) Ooh vas YEST soil?
ANATOLY
Hes very insistent about it.
(frustrated, the MAN storms to the table, grabs the salt, and heads back.
FLORENCE looks at ANATOLY with a knowing expression)
FLORENCE
Sohe asked for the salt?
(A sheepish grin escapes from ANATOLYs face, and they both burst out laughing. They stare at each other for some time, then FLORENCE stands
up hurriedly)
(MUSIC #14: Mountain Duet)
-
I 7 50
FLORENCE
Maybe Freddies on the terrace. Ill go check.
(She goes out onto the terrace. ANATOLY takes his drink and moves to a
higher level of the terrace. On opposite sides of the stage, they are lost in
their own worlds)
FLORENCE
THIS IS THE ONE SITUATION
I WANTED MOST TO AVOID NOTHING I SAY WILL CONVINCE HIM THIS ISNT A TRICK!
ANATOLY
A DRINK ON A CLEAR MOONLIT NIGHT I RELAX, SHE SMILES THERES SOMETHING PECULIAR GOING ON
FLORENCE
SO, WITH IMMACULATE TIMING,
IM LEFT TO CARRY THE CAN EMBARRASSED, DESERTED, MAROONED.
ANATOLY
NOW SHE CANT BE WORKING FOR THEM I MEAN, US.
SHE SEEMS SO VERY STRAIGHTFORWARD BUT WHERE IS HE?
FLORENCE
HE HAS TO SHOW UP IT CANT COME TO NOTHING PERHAPS IT CAN
ANATOLY
MAYBE HES SCARED JUST AS SCARED AS HE WAS IN THE GAME!
FLORENCE
OH, I JUST COULDNT CARE LESS! HE CAN GO RIGHT AHEAD,
GO AND WRECK HIS CAREER I KNOW IVE DONE MY BEST!
ANATOLY
WELL, AT LEAST SHES A GOOD-LOOKING SPY
-
I 7 51
FLORENCE
WHAT IF MY RUSSIAN FRIEND THINKS
THAT MY PLANS ARE MORE OF AN INTIMATE KIND IF I DONT SAY SOMETHING ELSE SOON, HELL GOMAYBE IM ON NOBODYS SIDE!
ANATOLY
(for the first time addressing FLORENCE)
LISTEN, I HATE TO BREAK UP THE MOOD GET TO THE POINT, BEGIN THE BEGUINE!
HAVENT YOU NOTICED WERE A PROTAGONIST SHORT IN THIS IDYLLIC, WELL-PRODUCED SCENE?
FLORENCE
HOW COULD I NOT, MISS VASSY REGRETS ANYTHING GOES WITH YOUR OPPONENT.
ANATOLY
NEVER MIND HIMI HAVENT MISSED HIM SO FAR!
BOTH
MAYBE IT WONT DO ANY HARM TO STRUGGLE ON WITHOUT HIS CHARM!
FUNNY HOW ALL AT ONCE I FEEL
THAT HE CAN GO JUMP OFF THE MOUNTAINI WONT CARE!
(impulsively, FLORENCE grabs ANATOLY and kisses him. They remain
embraced for a while, then FLORENCE pulls herself away)
FLORENCE
THIS IS THE ONE SITUATION
I WANTED MOST TO AVOID
ANATOLY
MY DEAR OPPONENT I REALLY CANT IMAGINE WHY.
FLORENCE
YOULL THINK IM THE DANGEROUS KIND WELL, I AM!
ANATOLY
NO, YOURE NOT DANGEROUS WHO COULD THINK THAT OF YOU?
-
I 7 52
BOTH
YOUYOU ARE SO STRANGE WHY CANT YOU BE WHAT YOU OUGHT TO BE? YOU SHOULD BE SCHEMING, INTRIGUING, TOO CLEVER BY HALF!
ANATOLY
I HAVE TO HAND IT TO YOU FOR YOUVE MANAGED TO MAKE ME FORGET WHY I EVER AGREED TO THIS FARCE.
BOTH
I DONT KNOW WHY I CANT THINK OF ANYTHING I WOULD RATHER DO, THAN BE WASTING MY TIME ON MOUNTAINS WITH YOU!
(they kiss again. FREDDIE enters and sees them)
FREDDIE
WHOD EVER THINK IT? SUCH A VERY PRETTY SETTING TELL ME, WHATS THE BETTING, VERY PRETTY PLOTTING, TOO?
NO MATTERIVE DONE ALL YOUR WORK FOR YOU! (to FLORENCE)
I asked you beforeare you for me or for them? (FLORENCE starts to reply)
No, nodont answer. I think I know. WHOD EVER GUESS IT? DAUGHTER IN COLLABORATION
WITH THE VERY NATION
GAVE HER FATHER THIRD DEGREE!
WHERES DADDY? DEAD OR IN THE K.G.B.!
(Furious, FLORENCE slaps FREDDIE and moves away. Taken aback,
FREDDIE starts to move towards her but is stopped by ANATOLY)
ANATOLY
Leave her alone, Trumper.
(WALTER and MOLOKOV have by now entered the scene. MOLOKOV
moves to ANATOLY.)
MOLOKOV
I will handle this.
-
I 7 53
ANATOLY
(pushing him away)
NoTrumper, I understand you came here to accept my apology.
MOLOKOV
Your apology?
ANATOLY
In only a few minutes, Miss Vassy has made me realize how wrong I have been. What mistakes I
have made. What I must change.
FREDDIE
Forget it, comrade. I dont need anything from you now. Walter was just telling me a group of fans phoned up and offered me another hundred grand to keep playing.
WALTER
People love his style.
FREDDIE
Tell them I accept. For a hundred grand, I guess I can sit there and hold my nose.
MOLOKOV
(dryly)
Wonderful, weve made up. (aside, to ANATOLY)
You should get some sleep.
WALTER
(moves to FREDDIE)
Cmon, Freddie, we won this round. You wanted groveling, you got groveling.
MOLOKOV
(quietly to ANATOLY)
You can explain this when we get back.
ANATOLY
I have nothing to explain.
FREDDIE
(to FLORENCE)
Heyyou coming?
ANATOLY
We could take you
-
I 7 54
FLORENCE
(moving away from the two of them)
Noboth of you, go. You need your rest.
End of Scene
-
I 8 55
Scene 8
(The streets of Bangkok, and the chess arena. At the back of the stage,
ANATOLY sits at the chessboard, but FREDDIE is nowhere to be seen.
FLORENCE and MOLOKOV watch from a distance. The ARBITER stands
at the board and makes an announcement)
(MUSIC #15: One Night in Bangkok)
ARBITER
It seems the players have resolved their differences, so we resume play to the score of one point
to zero in the favor of the champion, Mr. Freddie Trumper.
(at the front of the stage, the Bangkok nightlife sparks to life: dancers,
entertainers, and citizens crowd the stage, and soon FREDDIE pops out
among them, drink in hand, enjoying the sights of the town.)
FREDDIE
BANGKOK! ORIENTAL SETTING,
AND THE CITY DONT KNOW WHAT THE CITY IS GETTING THE CRME DE LA CRME OF THE CHESS WORLD IN A
SHOW WITH EVERYTHING BUT YUL BRYNNER.
BANGKOKJUST ANOTHER STOP IN THE CHESS WORLD CIRCUSMASTERS DROP IN, PLAY, CHECKMATE, CHECK OUT AND THEN YOU
MOVE ON TO ANOTHER VENUE.
LIKE ICELANDOR THE PHILIPPINESOR HASTINGSOR OR THIS PLACE!
CHORUS
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK, AND THE WORLDS YOUR OYSTER! THE BARS ARE TEMPLES, BUT THE PEARLS AINT FREE! YOULL FIND A GOD IN EVERY GOLDEN CLOISTER AND IF YOURE LUCKY, THEN THE GODS A SHE! I CAN FEEL AN ANGEL SLIDING UP TO ME!
FREDDIE
ONE TOWNS VERY LIKE ANOTHER WHEN YOUR HEADS DOWN OVER YOUR PIECES, BROTHER!
CHORUS
ITS A DRAG, ITS A BORE, ITS REALLY SUCH A PITY TO BE LOOKING AT THE BOARD, NOT LOOKING AT THE CITY!
-
I 8 56
FREDDIE
WHADDYA MEAN? YOUVE SEEN ONE CROWDED, POLLUTED, STINKING TOWN
CHORUS
TEA, GIRLSWARM AND SWEET (WARM, SWEET) SOME ARE SET UP IN THE SOMERSET MAUGHAN SUITE!
FREDDIE
GET THAID! YOURE TALKING TO A TOURIST WHOSE EVERY MOVES AMONG THE PUREST!
I GET MY KICKS ABOVE THE WAISTLINE, SUNSHINE!
CHORUS
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK MAKES A HARD MAN HUMBLE!
NOT MUCH BETWEEN DESPAIR AND ECSTASY.
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK AND THE TOUGH GUYS TUMBLE!
CANT BE TOO CAREFUL WITH YOUR COMPANY. I CAN FEEL THE DEVIL WALKING NEXT TO ME
(back in the arena, the ARBITER makes an announcement)
ARBITER
Freddie Trumper resigns the gameMr. Sergievsky ties the tournament one point to one.
(FREDDIE continues to enjoy himself in the Bangkok nightlife)
FREDDIE
SIAMS GONNA BE THE WITNESS TO THE ULTIMATE TEST OF CEREBRAL FITNESS!
THIS GRIPS ME MORE THAN WOULD A
MUDDY OLD RIVER OR RECLINING BUDDAH!
I DONT SEE YOU GUYS RATING THE KIND OF MATE IM CONTEMPLATING ID LET YOU WATCH, I WOULD INVITE YOU, BUT THE QUEENS WE USE WOULD NOT EXCITE YOU!
SO YOU BETTER GO BACK TO YOUR BARS, YOUR TEMPLES YOUR MASSAGE PARLOURS
CHORUS
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK MAKES A HARD MAN HUMBLE!
NOT MUCH BETWEEN DESPAIR AND ECSTASY.
-
I 8 57
(at the arena, ANATOLY leaves the board in frustration. The ARBITER
makes another announcement.)
ARBITER
Freddie Trumper fails to show up for a scheduled match, so the third game is forfeited. Mr.
Sergievsky now leads two points to one.
(He exits as well. FREDDIE and the dancers continue in full swing)
FREDDIE AND CHORUS
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK, AND THE WORLDS YOUR OYSTER! THE BARS ARE TEMPLES, BUT THE PEARLS AINT FREE! YOULL FIND A GOD IN EVERY GOLDEN CLOISTER AND IF YOURE LUCKY, THEN THE GODS A SHE! I CAN FEEL AN ANGEL SLIDING UP TO ME!
(in the midst of things, FREDDIE stumbles away and almost passes out.
WALTER enters and sees him, then hurries to help him up.)
CHORUS
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK MAKES A HARD MAN HUMBLE!
NOT MUCH BETWEEN DESPAIR AND ECSTASY.
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK AND THE TOUGH GUYS TUMBLE!
CANT BE TOO CAREFUL WITH YOUR COMPANY. I CAN FEEL THE DEVIL WALKING NEXT TO ME!
(WALTER exits with FREDDIE in tow)
End of Scene
-
I 9 58
Scene 9
(The arena, and later a Bangkok nightclub. The ARBITER enters the
empty arena and makes an announcement)
(MUSIC #16: Story of Chess (Reprise))
ARBITER
EACH GAME OF CHESS MEANS THERES ONE LESS VARIATION LEFT TO BE PLAYED.
EACH DAY GOT THROUGH MEANS ONE OR TWO
LESS MISTAKES REMAIN TO BE MADE.
Mr. Sergievsky and Mr. Trumper will resume the match this afternoon in the Grand Ballroom of
the Bangkok Hilton.
I CALL THIS TUNE: NO ONES IMMUNE TO MY POWER ONCE IN THAT HALL!
(MUSIC #17: Chess No. 2 (Instrumental))
(FREDDIE and ANATOLY, seated at the chessboard, resume play. Play is
heated and tense, and finally FREDDIE concedes defeat. ANATOLY
stands as the spectators applaud.)
ARBITER
Mr. Sergievsky now leads three points to one. We adjourn until 10 oclock tomorrow morning, when we will resume with the final game of the Bangkok portion of the World Chess
Championship.
(Various friends congratulate ANATOLY in Russian, pat his back, etc.
FREDDIE remains seated at the board dejected. The crowd in the arena
filters out, leaving only FLORENCE. She slowly moves to FREDDIE.)
(MUSIC #18: Florence Quits)
FLORENCE
(Trying to be friendly.)
That was a pretty foolish move you made, Mr. Trumper.
(beat)
But we can all make foolish movesat times?
FREDDIE
SO YOU GOT WHAT YOU WANT WHAT A NASTY AMBITION!
SET ME UP, PULL ME DOWN,
THEN EXPLOIT MY CONDITION!
-
I 9 59
I SHOULD HAVE GUESSED, WOMAN,
THAT IF PRESSED, WOMAN,
YOURE ON NOBODYS SIDE BUT YOUR OWN, AND YOURE BEHAVING LIKE A MERE WOMAN!
ITS SO CLEAR, WOMAN ITS YOUR SEX! ONCE THEY START GETTING OLD
AND GETTING WORRIED THEY LET FLY, TAKE IT OUT
ON THE ONE WHO SUPPORTS THEM THATS YOU IM TALKING ABOUT!
FLORENCE & FREDDIE
WHOD EVER THINK IT? SUCH A SQUALID LITTLE ENDING:
WATCHING YOU DESCENDING
JUST AS FAR AS YOU CAN GO IM LEARNING THINGS I DIDNT WANT TO KNOW!
WHOD EVER GUESS IT? THIS WOULD BE THE SITUATION ONE MORE OBSERVATION HOWD WE EVER GET THIS FAR BEFORE YOU SHOWED ME WHAT YOU REALLY ARE?
FLORENCE
YOULL BE LOST WITHOUT ME TO ABUSE LIKE YOURE USED TO!
(she exits the arena, moving downstage)
FREDDIE
GO AWAY! JUST GET OUT!
BE SOMEONE ELSES PARASITE!
(but FLORENCE has already gone. Alone, FREDDIE reflects bitterly)
FREDDIE
IM NOT THE KIND TO BE VINDICTIVE HOLDING SOME CHILDISH GRUDGE.
HOW COULD I BE? IM IN THE SPOTLIGHT, HALF OF THE WORLD MY JUDGE.
ALL I DEMAND IS THOSE I WORK FOR THOSE I GIVE ALL MY SKILLS, ALL MY TIME AND PAIN,
THOSE THAT I ENTERTAIN,
-
I 9 60
GIVE ME THE SAME COMPASSION IN RETURN.
BUT THE FOOLS NEVER LEARN!
(He exits. Scene transitions to a Bangkok nightclub under the song)
(MUSIC #19: Nobodys Side)
FLORENCE
WHATS GOING ON AROUND ME IS BARELY MAKING SENSE I NEED SOME EXPLANATIONS FAST.
I SEE MY PRESENT PARTNER
IN THE IMPERFECT TENSE AND I DONT SEE HOW WE CAN LAST. I FEEL I NEED A CHANGE OF CAST MAYBE IM ON NOBODYS SIDE!
AND WHEN HE GIVES ME REASONS
TO JUSTIFY EACH MOVE THEYRE GETTING HARDER TO BELIEVE. I KNOW THIS CANT CONTINUE, IVE STILL A LOT TO PROVE. THERE MUST BE MORE I COULD ACHIEVE BUT I DONT HAVE THE NERVE TO LEAVE!
FLORENCE & CHORUS
EVERYBODYS PLAYING THE GAME, BUT NOBODYS RULES ARE THE SAME! NOBODYS ON NOBODYS SIDE! BETTER LEARN TO GO IT ALONE RECOGNIZE YOURE OUT ON YOUR OWN! NOBODYS ON NOBODYS SIDE!
(She arrives at the Bangkok barfull of citizens and dancers. She moves to the bar and orders a drink.)
FLORENCE
THE ONE I SHOULD NOT THINK OF
KEEPS ROLLING THROUGH MY MIND.
AND I DONT WANT TO LET THAT GO. NO LOVERS EVER FAITHFUL, NO CONTRACT TRULY SIGNED.
THERES NOTHING CERTAIN LEFT TO KNOW AND HOW THE CRACKS BEGIN TO SHOW!
-
I 9 61
(She moves out to the floor and begins to join the dancers in celebration.
Exuberantly, she flits about the bar, dancing and flirting amongst the
patrons)
FLORENCE & CHORUS
NEVER MAKE A PROMISE OR PLAN TAKE A LITTLE LOVE WHERE YOU CAN!
NOBODYS ON NOBODYS SIDE! NEVER STAY TOO LONG IN YOUR BED,
NEVER LOSE YOUR HEART, USE YOUR HEAD!
NOBODYS ON NOBODYS SIDE!
(FLORENCE leads the dancers now in her celebration)
FLORENCE
NEVER TAKE A STRANGERS ADVICE! NEVER LET A FRIEND FOOL YOU TWICE!
FLORENCE & CHORUS
NOBODYS ON NOBODYS SIDE! EVERYBODYS PLAYING THE GAME, BUT NOBODYS RULES ARE THE SAME!
NOBODYS ON NOBODYS SIDE!
NEVER LEAVE A MOMENT TOO SOON!
NEVER WASTE A HOT AFTERNOON!
NOBODYS ON NOBODYS SIDE! NEVER STAY A MINUTE TOO LONG DONT FORGET THE BEST WILL GO WRONG! NOBODYS ON NOBODYS SIDE!
NEVER BE THE FIRST TO BELIEVE,
NEVER BE THE LAST TO DECEIVE!
NOBODYS ON NOBODYS SIDE! BETTER LEARN TO GO IT ALONE,
RECOGNIZE YOURE OUT ON YOUR OWN NOBODYS ON NOBODYS SIDE!
End of Scene
-
I 10 62
Scene 10
(MUSIC #20: Defection (Instrumental))
(Underground parking square below the arena. Sound of a car, lights
sweep across the stage; sound of car doors. In the darkness, BEN steps
out into the garage and scouts the area. He whistles for someone else to
follow. Echoed footsteps and then another man, PETE, carrying a
suitcase, enters with FLORENCE. PETE starts to leave with the luggage.)
FLORENCE
You going to take my luggage with you? My whole lifes in there. (sudden realization)
God, that says something about me, doesnt it. (PETE sets the suitcase down and exits. To BEN)
What is this all about?
(WALTER enters hurriedly, with an opened letter in hand)
WALTER
(To BEN)
Took you long enough.
BEN
Pete just
WALTER
I ran into him on the stairs. Ill handle it.
(BEN exits)
FLORENCE
I might have known youd have something to do with this.
WALTER
Lucky for us your plane was delayed. You could have been on your way home.
FLORENCE
Who are you, Mr. Anderson? What do you want with me?
WALTER
You just missed the Bangkok closing ceremonies.
(Hands her the letter)
Read this. It was addressed to you.
FLORENCE
-
I 10 63
And you opened it.
WALTER
Your friend should be happy I did.
(she reads)
He played a beautiful game today. Seemedinspired. Poor Freddieits four to one now. (beat)
Surprised?
(She is stunned. In the background, there is the sound of another car,
lights, etc. WALTER looks in that direction.)
FLORENCE
I guess I am.
WALTER
You had no idea?
FLORENCE
No. Of course not.
(beat)
I want to be with him.
WALTER
That can be arranged.
FLORENCE
When?
WALTER
Tonight. We need you to go
(A couple REPORTERS enter. WALTER stops talking and steps out of
sight. One REPORTER passes them by and exits, but the other notices
FLORENCE and hangs back.)
AMERICAN REPORTER
Excuse me, arent you with Mr. Trumper?
FLORENCE
Ive been his second.
AMERICAN REPORTER
(walks to her, takes out pad and pencil)
Couple of questions?
-
I 10 64
WALTER
(protecting her)
What do you want?
AMERICAN REPORTER
(showing press pass)
Associated Press. I just came from the airport, and theres a rumour there that Anatoly Sergievskys about to defect
(in an instant WALTER pushes him against a wall)
WALTER
Listen dont you say that to anyone! You understand? Do you understand?! (REPORTER nods)
Were talking about a mans life here.
(A car light sweeps the stage. WALTER moves to push FLORENCE away)
WALTER
Get out of the lightget out of the light!
(A few AMERICANS, including BEN, hurry in and rush across the garage.
Sound of cars being started, squeal of brakes, sweep of lights.)
BEN
(as lights sweep across)
What the hells going on here?
WALTER
(speaking over him)
Its usits us!
(Suddenly ANATOLY, surrounded by AMERICANS who are protecting
him, is rushed across the garage.)
FLORENCE
Anatoly!
ANATOLY
Florence!
(they embrace. WALTER moves to them quickly)
WALTER
Come on. I said, come on!
-
I 10 65
(In a frenzy they all exit. REPORTER runs off in other direction. Squeal of
brakes. Suddenly NIKOLAI and other RUSSIANS, followed by
MOLOKOV, run in, hearing the sound of a car.)
NIKOLAI
Stop! StopSergievsky!
(The car squeals away as RUSSIANS run after it, to no avail)
NIKOLAI
Theyre gone.
MOLOKOV
Walter, you bastard
(blackout)
End of Scene
-
I 11 66
Scene 11
(A small supply closet at the airport and later an airport terminal.
ANATOLY and FLORENCE sit on separate trunks. They are watched by
BEN)
ANATOLY
Whats the delay?
BEN
Five minuteswere trying to avoid the press. Relax. Walters having some food brought in.
(pause)
FLORENCE
(to ANATOLY)
You dont have any children, do you?
ANATOLY
Just a wife.
FLORENCE
Oh, just a wife
ANATOLY
No, noshe and I
FLORENCE
Dont tell me.
ANATOLY
No, pleasethis, it affects nothing. (beat)
It had gone wrong between us a long time ago.
FLORENCE
So at least Im not a homewrecker tooI mean, as well as being a traitor to the man Ive been working with for seven years.
ANATOLY
Just working with?
FLORENCE
(imitating him)
This, it affects nothing.
-
I 11 67
(PETE enters with a pile of junk food from the vending machines)
PETE
(eating a Twinkie)
Mr. Anderson said you were hungry.
FLORENCE
Thank you.
PETE
(to ANATOLY)
Been to America before?
ANATOLY
No, no I havent.
PETE
I think youll like it. Most people do. (beat)
Though if it were up to me, Id say choose the East, not the West. (ANATOLY looks at him, astonished. FLORENCE glares)
OhEast Coast, East Coast! Im from New York myself.
(BEN looks at his watch.)
BEN
Pete.
(They start to go)
PETE
Good luck!
BEN
Relax!
(The two of them leave. ANATOLY and FLORENCE are left alone. A
pause)
FLORENCE
Anatoly (beat)
Youyou didnt defectfor me, did you? (beat)
Because of my situation with Budapest. Diddid you leave so I could get in?
-
I 11 68
ANATOLY
(Beat. Searching for the right answer)
WellIYou seeI (finally)
I had many reasons