ACT ONE

Scene 1: A Giant Chessboard

"The Story of Chess"

ARBITER

Each game of chess means there's one less

Variation left to be played

Each day got through means one or two

Less mistakes remain to be made

Each game of chess means there's 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

Though 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 can't forgive this evil thing you've 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 he'd be pretty certain to impress

By using model soldiers on

A checkered board to show it was his brother's fault

They thus invented chess.

(the chorus moves large chess pieces around the board and sings the above in counterpoint during the following:)

Chess displayed no inertia

Soon spread to Persia, then west

Next the Arabs refined it,

Thus redesigned, it progressed

Still further yet

And when Constantinople fell in 1453

One would have noticed every other refugee

Included in his bags a set

Once in the hands

And in the minds of leading figures of the Renaissance

The spirit and the speed of chess made swift advance

Through all of Europe's vital lands

Where we must record

The game was further changed

Right across the board

The western touch upon the pieces ranged

King and queen and rook

And bishop, knight and pawn

All took on the look

We know today, the modern game was born

With such success

We see a game that started by mistake in Hindustan

And boosted in the main by what is now Iran

Reach every corner of the globe with nation

Squaring up to nation to determine, no holds barred....

Who owns, who made, who will parade

The champion of chess.

Scene 2: The Lobby of the Bangkok International Hotel

tv anchor

(on screen)

Frederick Trumper, the American chess player, has revolutionized an ancient game -- offering the kind of excitement usually associated with a rock concert. Well, "FREDDIE-mania" has moved halfway around the world with an added twist of global politics. An American-Soviet chess competition has seized the international media spotlight. We're taking you now live to our correspondent in Thailand, Frank Scamello....

SCAMELLO

Excitement is building here at the fabulous International Hotel in exotic Bangkok, Thailand, where press representatives from around the globe have gathered for what has to be the most anxiously awaited international sporting event since the last Olympics. The world chess tournament chess match-up between the American, Frederick Trumper and his Soviet challenger Anatoly Sergievsky. It's morning here in Bangkok, and the man who has held the world title for the past five years should be appearing at any...wait just a moment... Freddie Trumper's arriving now.

"What a Scene, What a Joy"

FREDDIE

(on screen)

What a scene! What a joy!

What a lovely sight

When my game is the big sensation!

Has the mob's sporting taste

Altered overnight?

Have they found new sophistication?

Not yet! They just want to see

If the nice guy beats the bum

If it's East-West

And the money's sky-high

They all come

My personal manager, WALTER De Courcey.

WALTER

Ladies and gentlemen, the world chess champion has arranged for an demonstration of his amazing mental powers. He's going to defeat the unbeaten Textron chess-playing computer in less than twenty-five moves.

FREDDIE

You can raise all you want

If you raise the roof

Scream and shout and the gate increases

Break the rules -- break the bank

I'm the living proof

They don't care how I move my pieces

I know I'm the best there is

But all they want is a show

Well that's all right I'll be glad to oblige

S.R.O. S.R.O.

Scene 3: Anatoly's Hotel Suite

Simultaneously, ALEXANDER MOLOKOV and ANATOLY SERGIEVSKY watch the match on television from their suite on the other side of the stage.

MOLOKOV

What a ridiculous demonstration. The man is clearly disintegrating before our very eyes.

ANATOLY

Don't believe it.

MOLOKOV

But twenty-five moves against a three-year old computer.

ANATOLY

Molokov, who is that woman?

MOLOKOV

Why? Interested?

(beat)

Very well. Nikolai, hand me the Vassy file.

(reads)

Florence Vassy. For the past seven years, Frederick Trumper's chess second. Hungarian-born orphan emigrated as an infant from Budapest. Adopted and raised in Connecticut. An excellent chess player in her own right, I might add. Several years ago, she and Trumper were lovers. Now they keep separate rooms. Whether they are lovers still....

ANATOLY

You mean there are things the KGB does not know?

MOLOKOV

We are seldom surprised by your taste in women, Anatoly. I shall make it a point not to inform your estranged wife.

ANATOLY

Svetlana and I keep no secrets from each other. Unlike your friends in Moscow.

MOLOKOV

Please, my dear Anatoly Valeriovich, by the time....being I'm a mere chess-playing second like the lovely Florence Vassy.

ANATOLY

Vassy...Vassy. Is she perhaps related to the former Hungarian chess champion?

MOLOKOV

His daughter.

ANATOLY

Does it say anywhere in that file that her father died in a Budapest prison in the '56 revolt?

(MOLOKOV turns up the volume on the television:)

FREDDIE

Checkmate!

SCAMELLO

Freddie has just defeated the previously unbeaten Textron computer in only 23 moves. We'd like to invite you now across the lobby to the Circus Room for champagne and coffee. We're going to watch the world champ play six international masters simultaneously while blindfolded.

(MOLOKOV turns off the TV)

"The Russian and Molokov"

MOLOKOV

What we've just seen's a pathetic display

From a man who's beginning to crack

He's afraid -- he knows he isn't the player he was

And he won't get it back

ANATOLY

Nonsense!

Why do my seconds

Always want to believe

Third-rate propaganda --?

MOLOKOV

My friend, please relax

We're all on your side

You know how you need us --

ANATOLY

I don't need my army of so-called 'advisors'

And 'helpers' to tell me

The man who's revitalised chess single-handed

Is more or less out of his brain

When it's very clear he's sane

FREDDIE

...I have just one message for you, my friend. You'd better come to play chess.

MOLOKOV

Listen, we won't underestimate Trumper

We won't get caught in that trap

After all, winning or losing reflects on us all --

ANATOLY

Oh don't give me that crap!

I win -- no one else does

And I take the rap if I lose

MOLOKOV

Winning's not so simple

The whole world's tuned in

We're on display

We're not merely sportsmen --

ANATOLY

Oh please don't start spouting that old party line

Yes I know it's your job but

Just get out and get me a chess-playing second

In twenty-four hours we begin

That is if you want to win!

MOLOKOV

Wanting's not sufficient

We have to know, we have to make sure

All men have a weakness

And his is that woman, the one who controls him

His queen and his mentor

The best moves are always

Away from the chessboard

The WOMAN is your aim

Take her and you win the game

(Molokov exits)

"Where I Want to Be"

ANATOLY

Who needs a dream?

Who needs ambition?

Who'd be the fool

In my position?

Once I had dreams

Now they're 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 I'm where I want to be and who I want to be

and doing what I always said I would

and yet I feel I haven't won at all

Running for my life and never looking back

in case there's someone right behind

to shoot me down and say he always knew I'd fall

When the crazy wheel slows down

Where will I be? Back where I started

Don't get me wrong

I'm not complaining

Times have been good

Fast, entertaining

But what's the point?

If I'm concealing

Not only love

All other feeling

Now I'm where I want to be and who I want to be

and doing what I always said I would

and yet I feel I haven't won at all

Running for my life and never looking back

in case there's someone right behind

to shoot me down and say he always knew I'd fall

When the crazy wheel slows down

Where will I be? Back where I started.

(Nicolai enters)

Nikolai

Anatoly Valeriovich, it's Nikolai. Excuse me, but I heard you tell MOLOKOV you needed a game. Well, I was a tournament semi-finalist of my student chess club in Crakow, and I was wondering....

ANATOLY

Nikolai!

(pause)

Maybe later.

Scene 4: The Rooftop Ballroom of the International Hotel

Molokov, Anatoly, Freddie, Florence, Walter, the Arbiter and his assistants and various delegates are present.

ARBITER

On behalf of the king and people of Thailand and the International Chess Federation, I wish to welcome the world to the magnificent city of Bangkok and the World Chess Championship. Mr. Frederick Trumper of the United States will defend his title against the challenger from the Soviet Union, Mr. Anatoly Sergievsky. Let me take this opportunity also to thank the Bangkok International Hotel for providing us with this magnificent rooftop ballroom.

FREDDIE

Nice spot.

ARBITER

Mr. Trumper, my name is Kobe Obe. My homeland, Nigeria. I am the Arbiter of this match. Our format is simple. The first player to attain six game victories over his opponent will be declared champion. These are my assistants. Officials will see that the rules of the match are followed and order prevails. Would the players and seconds please approach?

FREDDIE

Well, it's great to be back at the world championship. I just flew in from New York and boy are my arms tired. It's been two years since the last big event and it's going to feel great to keep the title.

FLORENCE

Good morning...Mr. Molokov? You speak English, I understand.

MOLOKOV

Good morning, Miss Vassy. My pleasure.

ANATOLY

I believe I speak your language as well, Miss Vassy.

FLORENCE

Congratulations, Mr. Sergievsky. Even reaching this level of play is no mean feat.

ANATOLY

May I take this opportunity to offer your man a rematch?

FLORENCE

Isn't that a little premature when you haven't even sat across a table yet?

ANATOLY

There's a Russian saying, 'Patience is a virtue, but why waste time?'

WALTER

Excuse me, I'm Walter DeCourcey, Freddie's personal manager, business matters. Unnecessary evil, I'm afraid, what with all the media attention....

MOLOKOV

We know you by reputation, Mr. DeCourcey.

FLORENCE

I'm sure you know a little about all of us, Mr. Molokov.

MOLOKOV

That's true, Miss Vassy, especially Hungarian citizens who've made a success in the West.

FLORENCE

Circumstances have left me a citizen of the world.

ARBITER

Enough big jaws. Shall we go see. I'm available to consider pre-match applications....

FLORENCE

We'd like to make a....

ARBITER

(continuing)

...and am hopeful that the new spirit of conciliation between two great nations will extend itself to a simple game. Miss Vassy?

FLORENCE

The American delegation wishes to protest the size of the Soviet delegation.

MOLOKOV

But our delegation is the same size as the American delegation.

FLORENCE

On the contrary, most of the people on our side are private citizens.

MOLOKOV

The Soviet delegation consists of just three people, including our champion. Our doctor, psychologist, security agents and chef cannot be considered delegates.

ARBITER

Objection overruled. Mr. Molokov?

MOLOKOV

The Soviet delegation has reason to believe that the American player's chair contains a communications device. It objects to the constitution of the chair.

FLORENCE

That's preposterous. Both chairs were made in Sweden. With non-aligned aluminum.

ARBITER

Objection overruled.

WALTER

As the head of the television companies, I'd like to ask permission for a few key commercial supporters of the game to set up sales booths around the arena....

ARBITER

Mr. DeCourcey, the trade show of chess products filling the hotel's convention hall isn't enough for you?

WALTER

Well, given the tremendous investment in the live satellite hook-up, it seems to me....

"Arbiter's Song"

ARBITER

Mr. DeCourcey, for the moment, could we behave ourselves with the dignity the occasion demands? Let the preparations for the match begin.

I've a duty as the referee

At the start of the match

On behalf of all our sponsors

I must welcome you

Which I do -- there's a catch

I don't care if you're a champion

No one messes with me

I am ruthless in upholding

What I know is right

Black or white -- as you'll see

I'm on the case

Can't be fooled

Any objection

Is overruled

Yes I'm the ARBITER and I know best

ASSISTANTS

He's impartial, don't push him, he's unimpressed

ARBITER

You got your tricks?

Good for you!

But there's no gambit

I don't see through

Oh I'm the ARBITER, I know the score

ASSISTANTS

From square one he'll be watching all 64

ARBITER

If you're thinking of the kind of thing

That we've seen in the past

Chanting gurus, walkie-talkies,

Walkouts, hypnotists,

Tempers, fists -- not so fast

Just the hint of the unethical

I'll be right on your back

I will jump on all offenders from a [?] height

Don't invite

[?]

I'm on the case

Can't be fooled

Any objection

Is overruled

Yes I'm the ARBITER and I know best

ASSISTANTS

He's impartial, don't push him, he's unimpressed.

(dance sequence)

ARBITER

I'm on the case

Can't be fooled

Any objection is overruled

Yes I'm the ARBITER and I know best

ASSISTANTS

He's impartial, don't push him, he's unimpressed.

ARBITER

You got your tricks?

Good for you!

But there's no gambit

I don't see through

Oh I'm the ARBITER, I know the score

From square one I'll be watching all 64

ASSISTANTS

From square one he'll be watching all 64

ARBITER

Oh I'm the ARBITER, I know the score

ARBITER & ASSISTANTS

From square one I'll be watching all 64.

(the game begins)

ARBITER

Mr. Sergievsky has resigned. Opening game to the champion, Frederick Trumper.

(applause)

Silence! I will not allow partisan demonstrations at this match. We will conduct ourselves with athe dignity the occasion deserves.

I'm on the case

Can't be fooled

Any objection is overruled

You got your tricks?

Good for you!

But there's no gambit

I don't see through

(Another game proceeds. As usual, Anatoly eats yogurt mid-game)

Oh I'm the ARBITER, my word is law

Yes, I'm the ARBITER, my word is law

From square one....

FREDDIE

(points to Anatoly's yogurt)

Put that down!

ANATOLY

Stop....

FREDDIE

The yogurt, give it here, let me see that.

ANATOLY

Get away.

FREDDIE

Check it! I want someone checking that yogurt. Put it down.

FLORENCE

Check it for what?

ARBITER

What is going on here?

FREDDIE

Check the yogurt.

ANATOLY

Why should I let you look in my yogurt?

FREDDIE

It's strawberry.

ANATOLY

Yes.

FREDDIE

Before that in the first game it was banana.

ANATOLY

So?

FREDDIE

Don't you see? They're cheating!

ARBITER

Mr. Trumper....

FREDDIE

Don't be so goddam naive! Look at that! Now I demand that he no longer be served yogurt and I want an apology.

ANATOLY

Never!

FLORENCE

Freddie, what are you doing...?

FREDDIE

I want him disqualified. Come on, do something. Call him on it. Do something!

ARBITER

Mr. Trumper, please....

FREDDIE

This match is over.

ARBITER

Break for lunch.

Scene 5: The ARBITER's Suite

ANATOLY

A pity we can't always choose which side we work for.

FLORENCE

I suspect the problem is a bit more acute on your side.

MOLOKOV

We wish, no must, make our disgust

For this abuse perfectly clear

We're here for chess -- are the US?

If so why foul the atmosphere?

FLORENCE

I must protest -- our delegation

Has a host of valid points to raise

ARBITER

It's not just black and white

If I may coin a phrase

As any neutral would attest

FLORENCE

Though we concede

The fact your masters bend the rules is maybe

not your fault

If they admit their psychological assault

Then under protest we'll proceed

MOLOKOV

If your man's so sweet

Then why the fighting talk?

If he's not a cheat

Then why on earth did he go take a walk?

FLORENCE

I am not surprised he wanted fresher air

Once he realized there was no hope

Of your lot playing fair

FLORENCE/ANATOLY MOLOKOV/ARBITER

How sad It's very sad to see

the ancient and

To see distinguished game

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

ANATOLY

I would say with regard to

Him it is hard to

Rebut

Ever growing suspicions

My opposition's

A nut

FLORENCE

I would have said

You'd understand the strain

and pressure getting where he's got

Or that you'd simply call him highly-strung and not

Imply that he was off his head

ANATOLY

But how on earth

Can someone even half as civilized and nice as you

Become with such a self-destructive point of view

I hope he pays you what you're worth

ARBITER

I call this tune

No one's immune to my power

Once in that hall

MOLOKOV

In that case

I must ask you

Why you now

Preside over a brawl

FLORENCE

I'm not getting rich

My only interest

Is in something which

Gives me the chance

Of working with the best

ANATOLY

I can only say

I hope your dream comes true

Till that far-off day

I hope you cope

With helping number two

FLORENCE/ANATOLY MOLOKOV/ARBITER

How sad It's very sad to see

the ancient and

To see distinguished game

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

(They all sing their verses over each other)

ALL

A model of decorum and tranquility

Become like any other sport

A battleground for rival ideologies

To slug it out with glee

ARBITER

Miss Vassy...!

FLORENCE

Ms.

ARBITER

It is time for explanations.

FLORENCE

Our position is simple. Mr. Trumper will consent to resume the match only if Mr. Sergievsky abstains from eating yogurt.

ANATOLY

Never!

FLORENCE

In addition,Freddie will require an apology for this extraordinary breach of chess etiquette.

ARBITER

Ms. Vassy, let me remind you that the eyes of the world are on Bangkok. This is the message that I want to send to both sides. The game is greater than the players and their politics. Tomorrow morning I expect to see two players at the table. Now. I'm going to leave the three of you to resolve your differences. Good day.

(Arbiter and Assistants exit)

ANATOLY

My taste in yogurt seems to have produced an international incident.

MOLOKOV

(to Florence)

My friend, in the spirit of Malta, why can't we just play chess?

FLORENCE

You have the nerve to ask me that?

MOLOKOV

I'm a chess second.

FLORENCE

Bullshit! The State Department briefed us about you before we came here, Molokov, and I'm sure you of all people are thoroughly aware of my family background.

ANATOLY

I was briefed on you myself, Miss Vassy.

FLORENCE

So don't give me any further reasons to hate you, and don't think for a moment we don't know who controls the momentum of this match. Freddie walks out and says you cheated, who wouldn't believe him? We'll come out on top and the two of you will be on the first plane back to Moscow. And I hear Moscow is lovely this time of year.

(to Anatoly)

You need only apologize because without an apology, I'm not certain I can convince Freddie to return to the game.

ANATOLY

Would this meeting have to be public?

MOLOKOV

Sergievsky....

ANATOLY

Would it?

MOLOKOV

You can't possibly agree to this.

FLORENCE

Not necessarily public. Like everything else, the setting can be negotiated.

MOLOKOV

This meeting will take place over my strenuous objections.

ANATOLY

As you can see, I lean heavily on the advice of Comrade Molokov. Therefore I will consent to this meeting only if seconds from both sides are present. That means you, Miss Vassy.

FLORENCE

I'm fully acquainted with my position in this match. Your generosity surprises me, Mr. Sergievsky. As a gesture of conciliation, I'll permit you to suggest a place.

MOLOKOV

I know a private restaurant....

FLORENCE

I know restaurants too, Mr. Molokov.

ANATOLY

Perfect! Travelling with my own chef, I have yet to sample the local Thai cuisine. Shall we choose? I have a Bangkok food guide.

FLORENCE

We'll use mine.

MOLOKOV

They're the same guide.

ANATOLY

We have something in common.

MOLOKOV

I open, you point.

FLORENCE

Agreed.

MOLOKOV

Make it the third below the one you touched.

FLORENCE

The fourth.

MOLOKOV

The second.

FLORENCE

Agreed.

MOLOKOV

Okay.

ANATOLY

The Generous Sole Terrace Bar.

MOLOKOV

An auspcious name.

FLORENCE

What a coincidence.

ANATOLY

It's in the hotel.

ALL

It sounds fine.

ANATOLY

Wonderful.

Scene 6: Freddie's Suite

WALTER

(into phone)

A lot of nerve these people have, you know. Yogurt! I mean who would have thought in an age of cold war thaw that...well, listen, David, you spend your life staring at 64 squares, you start to go a bit cuckoo after a while, I mean chess is a violent sport. David, listen to me, the chances of getting FREDDIE to pose for a photo with the Russian are less than zero. Unless you're talking about the cover. Now that would be different, wouldn't it?

(Florence enters)

FLORENCE

Where's FREDDIE?

WALTER

(to Florence, covering mouthpiece of phone)

Shhh. Time Life.

(into phone)

Now look, Freddie'll give you twenty minutes on the phone if we get the cover and a look at the copy before publication.

FLORENCE

Where is he?

WALTER

Shut up, please.

(into phone)

We realize that pre-publication review's a sensitive issue, but if you can give it to Meryl Streep, you can sure as hell give it to FREDDIE Trumper without any....

(Florence depresses the switch hook)

WALTER

What the hell are you doing? That was Time-Life. It took me twenty minutes to make that connection.

FLORENCE

Where did he go?

WALTER

Don't you realize what we got here? Cold War revived as chess match. Headlines in the press. Among them: La Monde, Die Welt, the Times in L.A., London, New York. This publicity could put our grandchildren through college.

FLORENCE

WALTER, I want some answers now. I just spent forty-five minutes making a complete ass of myself.

(the phone rings again)

WALTER

(into phone)

Freddie Trumper's suite, could you hold please?

(to Florence)

You've got my undivided attention. What is it?

FLORENCE

What Freddie did today was not his style.

WALTER

You're not suggesting I had anything to do with this are you?

FLORENCE

You follow the slime, you find the slug.

(Freddie enters)

FREDDIE

It wasn't Walter. It was my idea.

WALTER

You see?

FLORENCE

Okay. It's been a long day and it's not even four o'clock. I'm sorry, Walter.

WALTER

That's okay, kid. Forget about it. I'll take this in the bedroom. Good luck, Florence.

FLORENCE

Seriously, Freddie, what information could anyone possibly pass the guy in a cup of blueberry yogurt?

FREDDIE

It was strawberry.

FLORENCE

You couldn't even be original. You had to steal Korchnoi's ploy from '78.

FREDDIE

Korchnoi's complaint.

(pause)

Wait. Wait a sec. I figured it out. Ah ha! I figured it out.

FLORENCE

What did you figure out?

FREDDIE

Look, I'm down a pawn, right? But then I moved a bishop, which means I sacrifice, which means I'm down two pawns. Now watch closely. Because I moved the queen's rook...

FLORENCE

Just move the knight.

FREDDIE

No, no, no. You haven't seen it yet. I move the rook and bam, bam, bam, bam. A draw! Snatched from the jaws of defeat! Global headlines, Florence. Down two pawns, Trumper saves draw.

FLORENCE

So that's why you pulled that stunt with the yogurt.

FREDDIE

God, I feel good. You know, nothing makes the mind kick in like a knife to your throat.

FLORENCE

Fine time to save the draw.

FREDDIE

At first I thought he was just disguising that variation he used to keep Vilav in....

FLORENCE

Will you stop talking chess for one moment!?

(Walter enters)

WALTER

That was Vanity Fair and we got the cover! Freddie, I'll call you later. I'm going to see if I can set up a few more phone interviews. I'm telling you, this thing is big.

(Walter exits)

FREDDIE

I still can't figure out why I didn't see it....

WALTER

I'm going downstairs to the trade show, Florence. Come along later if you feel like slumming.

FLORENCE

Freddie, why did you cheat?

FREDDIE

I must be losing my touch.

FLORENCE

Answer me!

FREDDIE

Come on Florence, get with the program! This is no ordinary game! I can't lose this match. I cannot do that, Florence.

FLORENCE

Then you show up downstairs at the Generous Sole at ten.

FREDDIE

Why should I?

FLORENCE

He's apologizing.

FREDDIE

You're kidding?

FLORENCE

I wish I were.

FREDDIE

(laughs)

Vassy, you are a genius!

FLORENCE

I wish I had nothing to do with this.

FREDDIE

You wish you...hey, who's side you on here, anyway?

FLORENCE

They showed more class than you have ever shown in your life.

FREDDIE

I get it now. That Russian's got your number, hasn't he? I saw those smoldering looks at the opening ceremony. You seem to be forgetting something here Florence. These are the people who murdered your father.

"You Wanna Lose Your Only Friend"

FLORENCE

You want to lose your only friend?

Well, keep it up you're doing fine

Why this humiliation?

Why treat me like a fool?

I've taken shit for seven years

And I won't take it any more

FREDDIE

I'm only teasing Soviets

With gentle bonhomie

And you've a better reason to be anti-them than me

FLORENCE

There's a time and there's a place

FREDDIE

Well how about here and now? Are you for me or for them?

FLORENCE

There's a time and there's a place --

FREDDIE

1956 - Budapest is rising

1956 - Budapest is fighting

1956 - Budapest is falling

I'd have thought you'd support

Any attack on these people

On the people who ran

Mindlessly over your childhood

Don't let them fool you for

Thirty years on they're the same

FLORENCE

1956 - Budapest is fighting

1956 - Budapest is dying

FREDDIE

you should never forget

don't be deceived by this glasnost

If you walk out on me

You're really betraying your father

Were he alive now

He'd surely be dying of shame

FLORENCE

You know that there's nothing I've done

That he'd be ashamed of in my whole life!

Why'd you have to do this to me?

FREDDIE

Florence, I'm sorry. Florence.....

(lights down as she exits, the scene dissolves to the hotel cafe, then a spa during the following)

"Nobody's Side"

FLORENCE

What's going on around me

Is barely making sense

I need some explanations fast

I see my present partner

In the imperfect tense

And I don't see how we can last

I feel I need a change of cast

Maybe I'm on nobody's side

And when he gives me reasons

To justify each move

They're getting harder to believe

I know this can't continue

I've still a lot to prove

There must be more I could achieve

But I don't have the nerve to leave

(Florence leaves the restaurant and goes to the hotel spa where she receives a massage from the Spa Assistants)

SPA ASSISTANTS

Everybody's playing the game

But nobody's rules are the same

Nobody's on nobody's side

Better learn to go it alone

Recognize you're out on your own

Nobody's on nobody's side

FLORENCE

The one I should not think of

Keeps rolling through my mind

And I don't want to let that go

No lover's ever faithful

No contract truly signed

There's nothing certain left to know

And how the cracks begin to show!

FLORENCE & SPA ASSISTANTS

Never make a promise or plan

Take a little love where you can

Nobody's on nobody's side

Never stay too long in your bed

Never lose your heart, use your head

Nobody's on nobody's side

(behind a screen, Florence dresses for the evening)

(dance break)

FLORENCE

Never take a stranger's advice

Never let a friend fool you twice

Nobody's on nobody's side

Never be the first to believe

Never be the last to deceive

FLORENCE AND DRESSERS

Nobody's on nobody's side

Never leave a moment too soon

Never waste a hot afternoon

Nobody's on nobody's side

Never stay a minute too long

Don't forget the best will go wrong

Nobody's on nobody's side

Scene 8: The Generous Sole Terrace Bar

Better learn to go it alone

Recognize you're out on your own

Nobody's on nobody's side

(the dressers become patrons of the bar, joined by men to form couples. Florence approaches Molokov's table, as does Anatoly)

MOLOKOV

Who'd have thought that such a simple game could be so complicated? Please sit down Miss Vassy, Mr. Sergievsky. We just have to wait for only a moment. I still don't approve of this apology, but as you must know better than anyone we should all learn to allow for the whimseys of genius. Please come, won't you join us? Thank you. You do not care much for me yet, but in the words of Gorby, we should all learn to respond to changing times. In your native Hungary, democracy is restored. In East Germany, the youth of Berlin have danced atop the wall, which will be sold shortly and shipped brick by brick to Arizona to keep your London Bridge company.

ANATOLY

Good evening, Miss Vassy.

FLORENCE

Good evening, Mr. Sergievsky.

ANATOLY

You look more beautiful than ever.

FLORENCE

As you can see, I'm a little early.

MOLOKOV

With Frederick Trumper nowhere in evidence.

ANATOLY

Oh?

FLORENCE

He's with his agent. He should be here momentarily.

ANATOLY

Wonderful. This leaves the two of us time to chat. May I buy you a drink?

FLORENCE

Yes. Thank you. Do you have Perrier?

bartender

Calistoga water.

FLORENCE

A seltzer, please.

MOLOKOV

Perhaps we should order food. I feel ravenously hungry.

ANATOLY

Shall I enquire after the specials?

MOLOKOV

(to a diner across the room)

How's the trout?

diner

(In Russian)

Excellent.

MOLOKOV

The trout is excellent tonight.

FLORENCE

(to Anatoly, looking at the Diner)

He's with you?

ANATOLY

Hardly. He's with him.

MOLOKOV

Anatoly Valeriovich enjoys pointing out the lavish attention accorded Soviet chess heroes travelling abroad.

ANATOLY

Molokov, if you wish to eat soon, I suggest you make a phone call now and enquire after our American friend.

MOLOKOV

It appears I have to go to the men's room. Miss Vassy, excuse me.

(Molokov exits)

ANATOLY

Miss Vassy, I must take this moment. As a much younger man, I read your father's book. You must know the extraordinary impact he has had on a generation of Soviet players.

FLORENCE

Thank you. That means a great deal to me.

ANATOLY

Although by telling you this, I give you a special insight to my style of play.

FLORENCE

We're aware of the wide range of Soviet tactics, Mr. Sergievsky.

ANATOLY

And with Freddie Trumper, don't you find yourself at your wits end?

(pause)

I'm sorry, that was tactless of me. It's just that I know you have nothing whatsoever to do with this farcical business about the yogurt.

FLORENCE

What makes you think that Freddie and I aren't in complete agreement?

ANATOLY

From the look in his eyes. And the look in yours. He was afraid of losing, wasn't he?

FLORENCE

Freddie's not a....

ANATOLY

As his second, you had no choice but to defend him. Please believe me when I tell you I have never cheated in my life. Not at chess, anyway.

FLORENCE

Then why are you apologizing tonight?

ANATOLY

I have no intention of apologizing.

FLORENCE

Then why are we here?

ANATOLY

We are here to meet each other.

diner

(in Russian)

Pass the salt.

FLORENCE

Excuse me, but Freddie is coming here to discuss continuation of a chess match.

diner

(in Russian)

Pass the salt.

FLORENCE

What is he saying?

ANATOLY

He says you have beautiful eyes. Please.

diner

(in Russian)

Pass the salt.

(Anatoly passes the salt)

FLORENCE

He asked for the salt! You talk about trust. I have no reason to trust you at all.

ANATOLY

Nor I you. You said Freddie would be here and he is not. You came so early for our meeting. What's your motive? What's going on here? You could be working for Molokov for all I know.

"Terrace Duet"

FLORENCE

Perhaps Freddie's on the terrace. Excuse me.

This is the one situation

I wanted most to avoid

Nothing I say will convince him this isn't a trick

ANATOLY

A drink on a clear moonlit night -- I relax, she smiles

There's something peculiar going on

FLORENCE

So, through no fault of my own, I'm in it way over my head

Embarrassed, outnumbered, marooned

ANATOLY

Now she can't be working for them -- I mean us --

She seems so very straightforward -- but where is he?

FLORENCE

He has to show up -- it can't come to nothing

--perhaps it can!

ANATOLY

Maybe he's scared --

maybe he's scared, just as scared as he was in the game

FLORENCE

Oh I just couldn't care less

He can go right ahead, go and wreck his career

I know I've done my best

ANATOLY

Well at least she's a good-looking spy

FLORENCE

What if my Russian friend thinks that my plans

Have nothing to do with the chess?

If I don't say something and soon

He'll go -- maybe I'm on nobody's side!

ANATOLY

Listen, I hate to break up the mood

How do you say, begin the beguine

Haven't you noticed we're still one character short

In this idyllic, well-produced scene?

FLORENCE

How could I not? Miss Vassy regrets

Anything goes with your opponent

ANATOLY

Never mind him -- I haven't missed him so far

Maybe it won't do any harm

To struggle on without his charm

Funny how all at once I feel

Nothing about that meeting matters any more

(Florence starts to leave the terrace. Anatoly grabs her and pulls her close. They kiss)

FLORENCE

This is the one situation

I wanted most to avoid

ANATOLY

My dear opponent -- I really can't imagine why

FLORENCE

You think I'm the dangerous kind? Well, I am

(Florence backs away)

ANATOLY

You -- you're not dangerous

Who could think that of you?

FLORENCE & ANATOLY

You are so strange -- why can't 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 you've managed to make me forget why I

ever agreed to this farce

(They look at each other and embrace again)

FLORENCE & ANATOLY

I don't know why I can't think of anything

I would rather do

Than be spending my time with someone like you.

(As they kiss again, Freddie enters. They part guiltily when Freddie speaks)

FREDDIE

Who'd ever think it?

Such a very pretty setting!

Tell me what's the betting

Very pretty plotting too?

No matter -- I've done all your work for you.

FLORENCE

Freddie, I'm sorry...this shouldn't be happening.

FREDDIE

Who'd ever guess it?

Daughter in collaboration

With the very nation

Gave her father the third degree!

Where's Daddy? Dead or in the KGB?

MOLOKOV

(in Russian; trying to intercede)

[?]

FLORENCE

Freddie, it's all my fault....

ANATOLY

Miss Vassy has made me realize how wrong I was. Please accept my apology for eating yogurt during the match.

FREDDIE

I'm taking no apologies, Sergievsky. This is personal now.

FLORENCE

Freddie....

FREDDIE

Shut up. The match is on. You be there tomorrow.

MOLOKOV

Wonderful. We've all made up.

FREDDIE

(grabs Florence)

We're getting the hell out of here.

MOLOKOV

I'm telling you, this is big.

(pause; to Anatoly)

An interesting gambit, my friend.

Scene 9: The Lobby of the International Hotel

FLORENCE

Freddie, what kind of a fool do you think I am? Do you think I don't know what he's up to? He's using me to upset you.

FREDDIE

And he's doing a very good job.

FLORENCE

I promise you that it will never happen again. I've apologized a dozen times. I don't know what else to say.

FREDDIE

I don't know what else to believe.

(a Bellman approaches)

bellman

Miss Vassy.

FLORENCE

Yes, what is it?

bellman

There's a call for you. You can take it on the house phone.

FREDDIE

Go. Take the call. Take it easy, champ, we can't let these cheap psychological ploys get to us like this.

FLORENCE

(into phone)

This is Florence Vassy. There's a call for me?

(Nicolai enters)

nikolai

Excuse me, Mr. Trumper? I don't quite know how to ask this....

FREDDIE

Why don't you give it a shot?

nikolai

May I have your autograph, please?

FREDDIE

You're Molokov's assistant.

nikolai

I am also a chess fan. Please write 'to Nikolai.'

bellman

Miss Vassy? We are delighted to be of service.

FLORENCE

Hello?

ANATOLY

It's me.

FLORENCE

ANATOLY, why are you calling me here?

ANATOLY

When can I see you again?

FLORENCE

ANATOLY. We are from different countries. Different worlds. There's no future in this.

ANATOLY

Tell me you won't see me again. I knew it. I knew it from the way you kissed me. Please. We must see each other again tonight.

FLORENCE

No. That's impossible. And please, don't call me again.

(Walter enters)

WALTER

You know, FREDDIE, there must be 20,000 Nikolais in the Soviet Union, we should find somebody to penetrate that market.

FREDDIE

(to Florence)

And who was that? It was him, wasn't it?FLORENCE

We have to keep our minds on the match.

FREDDIE

He couldn't even wait until you got back to your room.

FLORENCE

Freddie, I didn't call him, he called me. And I told him I never wanted to see him again, I swear it.

FREDDIE

It is hard for me to imagine you getting yourself in this position. He is my opponent, after all. If I didn't know you better, I'd say it almost seems like sabotage.

FLORENCE

Freddie....

FREDDIE

Florence, what do you think you're doing?

(Walter and Freddie exit. Anatoly enters)

ANATOLY

There's no easy way for me to tell you this....

FLORENCE

Why did you come here? I can't be seen with you.

ANATOLY

[?] You changed my life....

FLORENCE

You're talking like a crazy man. We don't even know each other.

ANATOLY

I know that. [?] You are a courageous woman, a strong woman. I'm falling in love with you, Florence.

FLORENCE

[?] You were confused by someone who has not been kissed in a long time. I'm not the person you're talking about.

ANATOLY

One of you is.

FLORENCE

I'm not the person you're talking to.

ANATOLY

You are.

FLORENCE

I can't be that woman.

(but she responds to his embrace and eventually, his kiss)

Anatoly....we are from different countries, different worlds. Even if it were possible, there's no future in this.

ANATOLY

I believe you could feel something for me and you have committed yourself right now. I saw how he treats you. Maybe after this match is over and we're no longer opponents, you will give me a chance then....

FLORENCE

There's no chance for us Anatoly.

ANATOLY

[?] There's no chance for Trumper! He's finished!

(he exits)

Scene 10: The Rooftop Ballroom

announcer

We're here at the World Chess Federation championship, where play resumes after completion of the first draw last weekend. No early trends as yet, although Trumper....

FLORENCE

Not to worry, it's Freddie's....

ARBITER

The score in the World Chess Federation championship now stands at two victories to one, with one draw.

announcer

Entering the second week of the match, we....

(Cacophony of television and radio commentators.)

ARBITER

The score now stands at three victories to one with three draws.

announcer

...where action has resumed at the World Chess Federation championship. Time and again over the week, the Soviet's middle game has proved particularly strong....

ARBITER

On the twentieth day of play the score stands at four victories to one with four draws. In today's game, Mr. Sergievsky plays white.

"No Contest"

WALTER

You take care, you don't let

Their shenanigans blind you

And you're wrong to forget

You've got your country behind you

FREDDIE

You're a fool if you think you can wave a flag

And inspire some dramatic action

If I want bad enough then it's in the bag

If I don't you're a mere distraction

WALTER

You taught me baby

how the few who win acquire

What their hearts desire

It ain't practice, it ain't skill

They'll help but not as much as wanting will

FREDDIE

No contest, baby!

Pay no mind to reputation

You want concentration?

When they pick him off the floor

It's 'cause I wanted it a little more

WALTER

You can win, you can lose

Take or be a possession

You taught me how to choose

And the key is obsession

(the match resumes)

FREDDIE

See my eyes, are they safe, are they even sane?

Are they warm when they seem to greet you?

You don't know, you can't tell, but it should be plain

These are eyes that are gonna beat you

Don't ever tell me I don't know the way to play it

Do I have to say it?

Doesn't matter what he tries

I have him, you can see it in the eyes.

both

No contest, baby!

Barely any point in playing

When it's just delaying

What we both already know

He lost it a woman and a half ago.

ARBITER

Mr. Trumper has resigned. The score now stands at five victories to one in favor of the challenger.

announcer

That's it, ladies and gentlemen. One more victory and Anatoly Sergievsky will be the new chess champion of the world.

"So You Got What You Want"

FREDDIE

(to Florence, as she starts to exit)

So you got what you want

What a nasty ambition!

Set me up, pull me down

Then exploit my condition

Who'd ever think it?

Such a squalid little ending

Watching you descending

Just as far as you can go

I'm learning

Things I didn't want to know

FREDDIE and FLORENCE

Who'd ever guess

That this would be the situation

One more observation

How'd we ever get this far?

Before you showed me

What you really are.

FLORENCE

You'd be lost without me to abuse

Like you used to

FREDDIE

Go away, just get out

Be someone else's parasite.

FLORENCE

Okay, I'm going back to New York.

MOLOKOV

(to Anatoly)

Let her go. You've almost won. You don't need her now. She has served her purpose.

ANATOLY

Get your hands off me.

MOLOKOV

(in Russian)

[?]

woman

He said, we all deserve a drink.

(all exit the arena, while Freddie replaces the chess pieces on the tournament board)

"Pity the Child"

FREDDIE

When I was nine I learned survival

Taught myself not to care

I was my single good companion

Taking my comfort there

Up in my room I planned my conquests

On my own -- never asked for a helping hand

No one would understand

I never asked the pair who fought below

Just in case they said no

Pity the child who has ambition

Knows what he wants to do

Knows that he'll never fit the system

Others expect him to

Pity the child who knew his parents

Saw their faults, saw their love die before his eyes

Pity a child that wise

He never asked did I cause your distress?

Just in case they said yes

When I was twelve my father moved out

Left with a whimper -- not with a shout

I didn't miss him -- he made it perfectly clear

I was a fool and probably queer

Fool that I was I thought this would bring

Those he had left closer together

She made her move the moment he walked away

I was the last the woman told

She never let her bed get cold

Someone moved in -- I shut my door

Someone to treat her just the same way as before

I took the road of least resistance

I had my game to play

I had the skill, and more -- the hunger

Easy to get away

Pity the child with no such weapons

No defence, no escape from the ties that bind

Always a step behind

I never called to tell her all I'd done

I was only her son!

Pity the child but not forever

Not if he stays that way

He can get all he ever wanted

If he's prepared to pay

Pity instead the careless mother

What she missed

What she lost when she let me go

And I wonder does she know

I wouldn't call. A crazy thinkg to do

Just in case she said 'Who?'

Scene 11: The Hotel's Underground Garage

WALTER

Florence, Florence. You checked out before I could leave a name at the front desk....

FLORENCE

My flight's in forty minutes. If you're here to talk me out of leaving....

WALTER

Something astonishing's happened. It's not Freddie at all....

(Anatoly enters)

ANATOLY

Hello, Florence. From one stateless person to another....

FLORENCE

Anatoly, what do you...?

WALTER

He's defecting, Florence.

ANATOLY

I hate that word, defecting. Let's just say I'm moving to a new address.

FLORENCE

Why now, you're one victory away from....

WALTER

I've got to call some people from immigration....

(he exits)

ANATOLY

There's very little time, I have no choice. I've applied to the American Embassy for immigrant status.

FLORENCE

Couldn't you have waited one day?

ANATOLY

Yes, I could have, I suppose, but you could not.

FLORENCE

My reasons for leaving are different than yours.

ANATOLY

Our reasons can't be separated, Florence. You have made me realize many things about my country and my life. You once said we were from different worlds but we are in the same boat now.

FLORENCE

Anatoly, I can't commit to this.

ANATOLY

How strangely life works itself out. You said we had no future together. I can't imagine a future without you. You are the only future I have left to imagine.

(Walter re-enters)

WALTER

Sergievsky. They need to speak to you on the phone.

ANATOLY

Florence, I must go for a moment. Stay right where you are. Don't leave, please.

(Walter and Anatoly exit)

"Heaven Help My Heart"

FLORENCE

If it were love I should give that love

every second I have

And I do

Did I know where he'd lead me to?

Did I plan

Doing all of this for the love of a man?

Well I let it happen anyhow

And what I'm feeling now

Has no easy explanations

Reason plays no part

Heaven help my heart

I love him too much

What if he saw my whole existence

Turning around a word, a smile, a touch?

One of these days, and it won't be long,

he'll know more about me

Than he should

All my dreams will be understood

No surprise

Nothing more to learn from the look in my eyes

Though I know that time is not my friend

I'll fight it to the end

Hoping to keep this best of moments

When the passions start

Heaven help my heart

The day that I find

Suddenly I've run out of reasons

Suddenly I'm not always on his mind.

(Anatoly enters and stands upstage; Florence looks at him)

Maybe it's best to love a stranger

Well that's what I've done --

Heaven help my heart

Heaven help my heart.

(Florence goes to Anatoly and they embrace; Walter enters)

WALTER

So the Americans came through.

FLORENCE

So you're in?

ANATOLY

So I'm out.

FLORENCE

So here we are.

WALTER

Boy, has your wife got a surprise ahead of her.

ANATOLY

Temporary visa to the United States of America. Sounds wonderful. The United States.

FLORENCE

Anatoly, do you have any children?

ANATOLY

No. Just a wife. She and I....

FLORENCE

Don't say anything....

ANATOLY

Florence, it went wrong between us a long time ago.

FLORENCE

So at least I'm not a homewrecker too? I mean as well as being a traitor to the man I worked with for seven years.

ANATOLY

I will expect you to give me inside information on his game.

FLORENCE

We'll need a hotel room for that.

ANATOLY

Is that all you ever think about?

FLORENCE

Chess? No.

(she kisses Anatoly)

ANATOLY

Well, then. We have our luggage, we have our freedom and I have a Bangkok hotel guide.

Scene 12: The British Embassy

announcer

Ladies and gentlemen, an extraordinary development here at the World Chess Championship. Just one victory away from the title, the Soviet, ANATOLY Sergievsky, appears to have defected to the west. For the love of his opponent's second, Miss Florence Vassy. Let's listen in while the couple meets the press.

reporter #1

Mr. Sergievsky. Why now?

reporter #2

Why with glasnost?

reporter #3

Has your love affair anything to do with the collapse of Freddie Trumper's game, Miss Vassy?

ANATOLY

Don't answer her!

FLORENCE

Walter, how did the media find out?

WALTER

I called them.

FLORENCE

Why?

WALTER

You don't think I helped Sergievsky out of the goodness of my heart, do you? He promised us a week's postponement. A little time to get Freddie back on his feet.

FLORENCE

But why call the press?

WALTER

Publicity.

reporter #3

It's such a hopeful time in East-West relations, why defect now?

ANATOLY

I am not defecting. I have no further comments.

reporter #4

Is this your way of denouncing perestroika?

ANATOLY

I denounce nothing. Please. It's not a political gesture.

"The Reporters"

reporters

How long was this planned?

What made you defect?

Did anyone help you?

And do you expect

To be joined in your exile

By loved ones such as your wife?

Or are you starting again

In all aspects of life?

[?]Do you intend

To finish the match

Or have you resigned now

And should be attached

Any special significance

To your [?]

THIS DECISION AS FAR AS THE MATCH

MOLOKOV

Ladies and gentlemen. Defection old hat. The Soviet Union has a completely open emigration policy. Sergievsky, you're leaving your homeland not as a hero, but as a traitor.

"Anthem"

ANATOLY

I denounce nothing! No one.

No man, no madness

Though their sad power may prevail

Can possess, conquer, my country's heart

They rise to fail

She is eternal

Long before nations lines were drawn

When no flags flew, when no armies stood

My land was born

And you ask me why I love her

Through wars, death and despair

She is the constant, we who don't care

And you wonder will I leave her -- but how?

I cross over borders but I'm still there now

How can I leave her?

Where would I start?

Let man's petty nations tear themselves apart

My land's only borders lie around my heart.

end of act one

ACT TWO

Scene 1: Freddie's Suite Doorway

(Florence bangs on his door)

FLORENCE

Freddie. Let me in, I have to talk to you. You have to give me a chance to explain. Open the door, Freddie. I'm not helping Anatoly, you have to know that.

(Walter answers the door)

WALTER

Go away Florence, he's trying to sleep.

FLORENCE

Walter, you have to let me in, I have to explain.

WALTER

He saw the whole thing on television. Now leave him alone and let him lick his wounds.

FLORENCE

Freddie, where are you?

WALTER

No!

FLORENCE

Where is he?

WALTER

Since six-thirty last night, nobody knows.

FLORENCE

He's missing? We have to call the police.

WALTER

No. We can't afford the publicity.

FLORENCE

Walter, we have to find him. He doesn't know Bangkok....

(into phone)

Hello, front desk? Get me the American Embassy.

WALTER

I'm sorry, Florence. He's alone on this one.

Scene 2: Bangkok at Night

"One Night in Bangkok"

FREDDIE

Bangkok! Oriental setting

And the city don't know what the city is getting

The creme de la creme of the chess world in a

Show with everything but Yul Brynner

Bangkok! Just another stop in

The chess world circus -- Masters drop in,

Play, checkmate, check out and then you

Move on to another venue

Like Iceland -- or the Philippines -- or Hastings --

or -- this place!

chorus

One night in Bangkok and the world's your oyster

The bars are temples but the pearls ain't free

You'll find a god in every golden cloister

And if you're lucky then the god's a she

I can feel an angel sliding up to me

FREDDIE

One town's very like another

When your head's down over your pieces, brother

chorus

It's a drag, it's a bore, it's really such a pity

To be looking at the board, not looking at the city

FREDDIE

What do you mean? You've seen one crowded, polluted,

stinking town, you've seen--

chorus

Tea, girls, warm, sweet

Some are set up in the Somerset Maugham Suite

FREDDIE

Get Thai'd! You're taking to a tourist

Whose every move's 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

Can't be too careful with your company

I can feel the devil walking next to me

FREDDIE

Siam's gonna be the witness

To the ultimate test in cerebral fitness

This grips me more than would a

Muddy old river or reclining BUDDHA

I don't see you guys rating

The kind of mate I'm contemplating

I'd let you watch, I would invite you

But the queens we use would not excite you

So you'd better go back to your bars, your temples,

your massage parlors....

chorus

One night in Bangkok and the world's your oyster

The bars are temples but the pearls ain't free

You'll find a god in every golden cloister

A little flesh, a little history

I can feel an angel sliding up to me

One night in Bangkok makes a hard man humble

Not much between despair and ecstasy

One night in Bangkok and the tough guys tumble

Can't be too careful with your company

I can feel the devil walking next to me

(Freddie is mugged by a gang of hoodlums)

WALTER

Freddie! Jesus Christ.

Scene 3: A Thai Restaurant

man

Are you still happy?

ANATOLY

Very happy. We'll have the pineapple dessert, thank you.

FLORENCE

The week's postponement has passed so quickly. We've hardly mentioned chess at all.

ANATOLY

Conversation has taken the back seat at times, no? So no regrets?

FLORENCE

I regret hurting Freddie. My only other regret is not meeting you sooner.

ANATOLY

A week has passed and no move from Molokov. I feel as if I'm in America already. We are staying at the hotel with a tour group from Buffalo. We are renting a Hertz Rent-a-Car Ford Escort and down the block is not only a Burger King but a Popeye Chicken. Of course, the big change is the nationality of my baby sitters. They're Americans now.

man

Hello... Tolya Sergievsky.

(a man and woman approach Anatoly. His guards grab them)

ANATOLY

Josef! Let her go. This is a friend of mine.

guard #1

They are okay?

ANATOLY

Yes, I tell you, these are good friends from Moscow. Studied at the [?].

(lots of conversation in Russian)

ANATOLY

He wants to know why you tried to hurt him.

guard #1

Tell him we're sorry, Anatoly.

guard #2

We have a job to do. We're just trying to do it.

guard #1

Why don't you ask your friends how they got their plane tickets to Bangkok.

ANATOLY

(asks in Russian)

man

(in Russian)

Svetlana's in Bangkok.

ANATOLY

Svetlana?

(discussion in Russian)

woman

Goodbye.

ANATOLY

We want to be alone.

guard #1

I'm sorry, but you're under our supervision while you're in Bangkok.

ANATOLY

I don't think I'm going to be kidnapped in the next twenty minutes. May I please enjoy my basic human right of privacy?

guard #2

All right. Let's leave 'em alone.

guard #1

Just don't leave town, pardner.

(the Guards exit)

ANATOLY

(to Florence)

My wife is in Bangkok.

FLORENCE

Her name is Svetlana, isn't it? I always found it strange that you never told me her name.

ANATOLY

This is Molokov's doing.

FLORENCE

They've started, haven't they?

ANATOLY

They will stop at nothing to drive me.

FLORENCE

Are you going to see her?

ANATOLY

Should I see her, Florence?

FLORENCE

This is your move, Anatoly, not mine.

ANATOLY

We're not playing a game of chess.

FLORENCE

Go.

ANATOLY

I don't love her.

FLORENCE

You married her.

ANATOLY

Years ago.

"You and I"

FLORENCE

Just go. You love her.

This is an all too familiar scene

Life imperceptibly coming between

Those whose love is as strong as it could or should be

ANATOLY

Nothing has altered --

FLORENCE

-- yet everything's changed

ANATOLY

No one stands still --

both

Still I love you completely and hope I always will

ANATOLY

Why do we need to put love into words?

Causing confusion

We protest, explain

Reassure in vain

Come to no conclusion

FLORENCE

I'd give the world to stay just as we are

It's better by far

Not to be too wise

Not to realize

Where there's truth there will be lies

You and I

We've seen it all

both

Chasing our hearts desire

Yet we go on believing

ANATOLY

Nothing can harm us

This is forever.

(Anatoly leaves Florence and joins Svetlana on a balcony)

Scene 4: Svetlana's Suite

"You and I"

SVETLANA

You knew better than me

Where your ambitions would take us

I knew sooner than you

That those ambitions would break us

You would not believe me

Why should you believe me?

I held you back

You and your dream

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

Many things dying

But then --

ANATOLY and SVETLANA

You and I

We've seen it all

Been down this road before

But I go on pretending

Stories like ours

Have happy endings

ANATOLY

What is left to say?

SVETLANA

I am not surprised. Our friends in Moscow were, but then they had not yet heard the explanation.

ANATOLY

I have done many things I am not proud of, Svetlana, but I have never lied to you.

SVETLANA

Is she beautiful? Is she rich?

ANATOLY

No.

SVETLANA

But she dresses well.

ANATOLY

Is that a question?

SVETLANA

No.

(pause)

Are you happy? Is she?

ANATOLY

Svetlana, I love her.

SVETLANA

That wasn't what I asked. That wasn't what I wanted to know

(pause)

It is good to see you again. It is always a pleasure to see my husband.

ANATOLY

Svetlana! Please!

(She exits. Molokov enters)

MOLOKOV

Things will get worse before they get better.

ANATOLY

I have some money for her. Maybe you could give it to her. I don't think she would take it from me.

MOLOKOV

Why not wait and see. She'll be staying in Bangkok for the rest of the match.

ANATOLY

I don't think that would be a very good idea.

MOLOKOV

No one cares what you think. Sergievsky, you have no concept of the gravity of what you have done. Tens of thousands of young people are trying to build a new Russia, and this is the example you set.

ANATOLY

With tens of thousands there what does one more matter?

MOLOKOV

There are people in high places who care very much about the defection of the nation's chess champion. It reflects badly on our reforms. If you continue on your present course, Svetlana Ivanova will lose her apartment and your brother....

ANATOLY

What about my brother?

MOLOKOV

There is a housing shortage in Rybinsk. He and his wife will have to find a smaller apartment soon. And Svetlana's brother--suddenly there will be no room for him at the medical school. And your brother's son--how old is he?

ANATOLY

I want to live in peace.

MOLOKOV

Five, is he?

ANATOLY

Why can't you leave us alone?

MOLOKOV

As you say, the world is changing, Sergievsky. Only not as fast as you think. I want to leave this room with your promise to return to Moscow when this match is over.

ANATOLY

How long have you known me? How long have you watched me play chess? What makes you think I'm going to back down now? Your tactics are from another era, Molokov. We are building democracy in our country now. And I am voting with my people.

MOLOKOV

One little move affecting so many people's lives. You've taken on a most unpleasant enemy.

(They both exit the room. The scene shifts to a small bridge outside)

Scene 5: Bangkok Waterfront

"Where I Want to Be"/ "You and I" (reprise)

FREDDIE

Who needs a dream?

Who needs ambition?

Who'd be the fool

In my position?

Once I had dreams

Now they're obsessions

Hopes become needs

Lovers possessions

But then

(Florence enters)

FREDDIE and florence

You and I

We've seen it all

Been down this road before

But we go on pretending

florence

Stories like ours

Have happy endings.

FREDDIE

The Bridge Over the River Kwai. Not a bad spot for a midnight rendezvous.

FLORENCE

Actually, it's the [?]. Thanks for seeing me, Freddie.

FREDDIE

Seven years is a long time. Who am I to disappoint an old friend?

FLORENCE

You played well today.

FREDDIE

I played all right. Your man stank.

FLORENCE

He had some nice moves during the exchange of knights.

FREDDIE

He stank for forty-three moves, then he lost.

FLORENCE

He did stink, didn't he?

FREDDIE

You've obviously not been helping him much with his game.

FLORENCE

How are your bruises?

FREDDIE

You mean the ones on my face?

(pause)

I guess you could say I hit bottom, Florence. And I found out the bottom's not so bad when you get right down to it, really. I'm like a cat that always lands on its feet.

FLORENCE

We're survivors, aren't we?

FREDDIE

Live and learn. Isn't that the Russians' saying?

FLORENCE

Freddie, I need a favor.

FREDDIE

I can't wait for this.

FLORENCE

The Soviets want him back. They're making terrible threats against his family. They've even flown his wife in from Moscow.

FREDDIE

How awkward for you.

FLORENCE

This problem is serious, Freddie. You and I have nothing to do with it. He's asked for one postponement already. He can't ask for another.

FREDDIE

So you want me to ask for one?

FLORENCE

Only for a week. Just enough time for him to get back on his feet. Like he gave you.

FREDDIE

I really gotta hand it to you, Florence. Now I know why you are the best chess second in the business. He's beaten, isn't he?

FLORENCE

He lost today for reasons having nothing to do with his game.

FREDDIE

So what if I did ask? There's no guarantee the Arbiter would accept.

FLORENCE

I know.

FREDDIE

There'd have to be a hell of a reason.

FLORENCE

I know. Try, Freddie. Do it for me. Because I'm asking.

FREDDIE

You got it, babe. Because you asked. But when he gets back, I want his best game because I plan to stage the greatest comeback in the history of world championship play. And when I retain my title, I don't want anybody saying I beat a man who was beaten already.

FLORENCE

Someday I'd like to explain why all this happened.

FREDDIE

I think I know already.

FLORENCE

I fell in love with him, Freddie. I wasn't looking for it to happen. It just did.

FREDDIE

I guess I should have paid a little more attention. Anyway, he's got a week to get his act together. And then you tell him for me...do you promise to tell him what I'm about to say?

FLORENCE

Yes. I promise.

FREDDIE

You tell him the legend is back.

Scene 5: The Arbiter's Suite

announcer

Events are unfolding with blinding speed here at the World Chess Championship. At yesterday's game, the first since Anatoly Sergievsky's stunning defection to the West a week ago, produced a smashing victory for the American, Frederick Trumper. Yet here we are, outside the Arbiter's suite awaiting a surprise public meeting between the Arbiter and the champion. We've just received word that Frederick Trumper is arriving now.

FREDDIE

Good morning everybody. Let's put the pedal to the metal.

ARBITER

You appear in fine fettle, Mr. Trumper. I trust we can keep this brief.

FREDDIE

I need a week's postponement.

ARBITER

Mr. Trumper, hasn't this match had enough distractions already?

FREDDIE

A week or so ago, I had an unfortunate encounter with 12 or 14 hoodlums in the back streets of Bangkok. Ever since, I've had these splitting headaches. Now it doesn't seem unreasonable to me that if my opponent can get a week's postponement, that I can't get the same.

ARBITER

From you I have come to expect the unexpected. I will retire to deliberate.

reporter #1

Freddie, why ask for a postponement now?

reporter #2

You creamed the guy the last game.

reporter #3

Aren't you afraid he'll return to form?

reporter #4

After all, he beat you five straight.

"What a Scene" (reprise)

FREDDIE

And I say, tell me

Make my day, tell me

You got it wrong

He's washed up

And it's me in pole position

Spread the news, tell them

It's a cruise, tell them

I'm on a rolL,

flyin' high

Working on his demolition

I know that I got him now

But all they want is a show

Well that's all right, I'll be glad to oblige

S.R.O., S.R.O.

(the Reporters react)

FREDDIE

Sorry, kids no more questions. I feel a migraine coming on. Walter, when the decision comes down, give me a buzz.

(Freddie and the Reporters exit)

MOLOKOV

(to Walter)

You're not impressed. We tried every tactic in the book. I am being held personnaly responsible for this debacle. So I...have, DeCourcey, a proposition...this letter....

(he holds a letter out to Walter)

This letter contains a study of financial opportunities for the American Chess interests in my country. [?] You would be just the man to steer them. Our commercial offering to the West.

WALTER

Sounds like a must-read. I'll put it on top of my stack.

MOLOKOV

My dear DeCourcey, this is a moment to be coy. We are aware that you have certain 'friends' in Washington. For obvious reasons, I cannot contact them directly. But in the words of President Bush, 'read my lips.' We don't care whether Sergievsky wins or loses; we want him back!

WALTER

No promises Molokov, I'll see what I can do.

WOMAN

Attention please, for the Arbiter's announcement.

ARBITER

Mr. Trumper claims to be suffering from headaches as the result of a beating. His convincing victory in game eight suggests to me that he has fully recovered from his injuries. Mr. DeCourcey, here are two aspirin and a glass of water. I suggest your man take them before the game tomorrow. Request for postponement denied.

"Story of Chess" (reprise)

Each game of chess

Means there's one less

Variation left to be played

Each day got through

Means one or two

Less mistakes remain to be made

King and queen and rook

And bishop, knight and pawn

ALL TOOK ON THE LOOK

We know TODAY, THE MODERN GAME WAS BORN

WALTER

Ben. You were right. They're ready to talk about Sergievsky

ben

Good work, Walter. So you've got a game. What are they asking for?

WALTER

I don't want to get involved in the negotiations. Just give me a few hours to handle my own deal with Molokov, then give me a call. By then, Moscow will be ready to rock and roll.

announcer

The battle of Bangkok has continued to dominate headlines around the world. Ever since the love match and defection of Florence Vassy and Anatoly Sergievsky, TV ratings for the chess game have skyrocketed. Trumper's stream of victories is continuing. Sergievsky's play seems half-hearted. Trumper's bold aggressiveness has begun to pay off. Both camps have maintained a stony silence since the resumption of play. Sergievsky's Minzoleanian [?] defense has once again failed to produce results. I'd say this game is history.

ARBITER

Mr. Trumper's win today leaves the score at five wins for Mr. Sergievsky, five for Mr. Trumper with four draws. Match game even. One more victory on either side will produce a world title.

Scene 7: A Bar in the International Hotel

"I Know Him So Well"

FLORENCE

Nothing is so good it lasts eternally

Perfect situations must go wrong

But this has never yet prevented me

Wanting far too much for far too long

Looking back I could have played it differently

Learned a little more before I fell

(Svetlana enters and sits at the opposite end)

But it took time to understand the man

Now at least I know I know him well

Wasn't it good?

SVETLANA

Oh so good

FLORENCE

Wasn't he fine?

SVETLANA

Oh so fine

FLORENCE

Isn't it madness?

both

He can't be mine?

FLORENCE

But in the end he needs a little bit more than me

More security

SVETLANA

He needs his fantasy and freedom

FLORENCE

I know him so well

SVETLANA

No one in your life is with you constantly

No one is completely on your side

And though I move my world to be with him

Still the gap between us is too wide

Looking back I could have played it differently

FLORENCE

Looking back I could have played it some other way

SVETLANA

Won a few more moments, who can tell?

FLORENCE

I was just a little careless maybe

SVETLANA

But I was ever so much younger then

FLORENCE

Now at least I know him well

SVETLANA

Now at least

both

I know I know him well

SVETLANA

Wasn't it good?

FLORENCE

Oh so good

SVETLANA

Wasn't he fine?

FLORENCE

Oh so fine

SVETLANA

Isn't it madness

both

He won't be mine?

Didn't I know how it would go?

If I knew from the start

Why am I falling apart?

SVETLANA

Wasn't it good?

Wasn't he fine

FLORENCE

Isn't it madness

both

He won't be mine?

FLORENCE

But in the end he needs a little bit more than me --

More security

SVETLANA

He needs his fantasy and freedom

FLORENCE

I know him so well

SVETLANA

It took time to understand him

(Florence moves closer to Svetlana)

both

I know him so well.

FLORENCE

You're Svetlana, aren't you?

SVETLANA

You must be Florence.

FLORENCE

I was just waiting here for....

SVETLANA

I was just thinking how interesting it would be to accidentally run into my husband's mistress. What kind word are you expecting of me?

FLORENCE

Anatoly's at the American Embassy. He's been gone all afternoon.

SVETLANA

Anatoly is familiar with waiting in lines. Fortunately he has always had tremendous patience. Perhaps willpower would be a better term. I remember the first year we went together...but then you are not interested in that. How is Anatoly?

FLORENCE

He's been trying to get immigrant status at the embassy for days. He's followed in the street by men neither of us recognize. The phone rings at four a.m. He's becoming distracted and paranoid, even with me....

SVETLANA

Forgive me, Miss Vassy, but you must know. You will say that I have selfish reasons for telling you this, but there have been others before you. Anatoly's a hopeless romantic. You are not his first love affair. You are only the first woman he has defected for.

FLORENCE

There's nothing you could do or say that would shake my love for Anatoly.

SVETLANA

If there was, then your love would not be worth much, would it? Anatoly!

(Anatoly enters, goes to the bar)

ANATOLY

Scotch!

FLORENCE

Are you all right? I thought you'd be here hours ago.

ANATOLY

A strange man came up to me on the street just now and said my brother's son has been burnt in an accident. Don't worry, he said, he's only very frightened. So are his parents. It could have been much, much worse. Then he vanished.

SVETLANA

(in Russian)

[?]

ANATOLY

Yes, call my brother in Rybinsk.

(in Russian)

[?]

I'm sorry, Florence, this is important.

(in Russian)

[?]

SVETLANA

I will go back to my hotel and make a call.

ANATOLY

Thank you, Svetlana. I appreciate this favor tremendously.

SVETLANA

You're welcome, Anatoly. I will be going now. Goodbye, Miss Vassy.

ANATOLY

Another! Those bastards. They won't leave us alone. Meanwhile, the Americans don't seem to want me at all. Three hours today I spent in that visa line, only to be sent to another line where someone's out to lunch. Two more hours I wait only to be told so-and-so is now ill and won't be back today.

FLORENCE

Tell me what you want me to do and I'll do it.

ANATOLY

What was Svetlana doing here? What did she tell you? She's the only person they can use to get me.

FLORENCE

Anatoly, there's no one you should trust more than me. My father died fighting the enemies you're fighting now. We can't watch your family being hurt because of something we did. We'll start a campaign in the media. We won't let them intimidate us like this.

ANATOLY

Florence, my problems have nothing to do with us. And everything to do with where I come from.

FLORENCE

But you're not in the Soviet Union any more. If it weren't for our love for each other, none of this would be happening.

ANATOLY

You're right. For too long I've let them run my life. I am in the West now. We must move on together. First, there is something I must do alone. I love you, Florence.

(he exits)

FLORENCE

I love you too.

Scene 8: A Buddhist Temple

WALTER

Nice, Freddie. Any chance we can get him up against that Buddha?

photographer

Get lost, pal, this is my shoot. Great, wonderful...keep moving...fine, Freddie, flash those pearlies.

(Anatoly enters)

FREDDIE

Sergievsky.

ANATOLY

At the hotel, they told me I could find you here. No pictures.

FREDDIE

He didn't come to have his picture taken.

(Anatoly grabs her camera)

photographer

Hey! Give me that.

ANATOLY

We must talk alone.

WALTER

Of course.

ANATOLY

Florence and I are in love. We want to stay together after the match.

FREDDIE

Do tell.

ANATOLY

Unfortunately, I do not seem to be able to travel freely in the West. My own government has chosen to harass my family and friends at home. I cannot allow this to continue. This is why I won't be playing in the match tomorrow.

FREDDIE

Congratulations on retaining your title. You are a great champion.

FREDDIE

Wait a minute. Hey, come back here. I don't plan on backing into this title, Sergievsky.

ANATOLY

You were with Florence for the better part of seven years? I thought you of all people would understand.

FREDDIE

If you walk out, you won't be able to live with yourself.

ANATOLY

I have no choice.

FREDDIE

Yes, you do. You could try to beat me tomorrow, what? Gorbachev wouldn't welcome home the world's top player? Go for it man, give it your best shot.

ANATOLY

I would want your best game, too. Maybe someday.

FREDDIE

This was Florence's idea, wasn't it? She told you to forfeit the match, well I am telling you, man, do not do it.

ANATOLY

You don't understand! The rest of the world is just like America! Freddie, the only way Florence and I can stay together is if we disappear.

FREDDIE

You're afraid, aren't you? You don't think you can beat me.

ANATOLY

Goodbye, Trumper.

FREDDIE

Sergievsky! Tell her she doesn't have to stay with a loser. God dammit!

WALTER

This is awful. When we started all this, it never occurred to us he'd back out of the game.

FREDDIE

Who's us?

Scene 9: The Rooftop Ballroom

announcer

Good morning, America, we're back in Bangkok, Thailand, where it's sudden death here in the World Chess Championships. After exactly one month of head-to-head competition, it's winner take all. The next man to win a game becomes chess champion of the world. But the big news: minutes before the big game, the challenger, the former Soviet Anatoly Sergievsky, is nowhere to be found.

"Endgame"

ARBITER's assistants

Did you make it clear

That he has to be here?

Does he understand

There are no exceptions?

ARBITER

How straightforward the game

When all it's rules are respected...

ARBITER's assistants

Did you make it clear

There are no exceptions?

ARBITER

And these rules are the same

For a champion or for a novice

No show, no dice, no appeal, no exceptions, no way!

(Walter, Molokov and delegates enter)

ARBITER'S ASSISTANTS

Do you think he knows

What it's gonna cost him?

WALTER

Does the player exist

In any human endeavor...

mOLOKOV

Do you think he cares

What it's gonna cost him?

WALTER

...Who's been known to resist

Sirens of fame and POSSESSIONS?

Threaten to cut off supplies and he'll come out to play.

CHORUS

He's a broken manGood as back in Moscow

nikolai

It's the weak who extol

Tawdry untruths about freedom...

chorus

What a way to learn

Home is where the heart is.

nikolai

...Prostituting the soul

Chasing some spurious starlight

Trinkets in airports sufficient to lead them astray

chorus

Selfish little creep

Everybody suffers.

ben

I'm no expert in chess

But hazard this prognostication...

chorus

Selfish little creep

Everybody suffers.

ben

...That the late Mister "S"

Has better chances of winning

The Kentucky Derby than taking this title today.

chorus

Selfish little creep

Everybody suffers.

We don't see the jerk

Even coming second.

We are all aware of reputation

But one empty chair is condemnation

Of a man who blew it scuttled with dishonor

No one gives a damn

For his dilemma

Just another scam

We're sick of them, a

Pretty bleak display

From Russia's PRIMA DONA

We can hardly begin to

Imagine why he'd risk all he's put into

His calling through the years

The blood, the sweat, the tears

The late, late nights the early starts

The bad guy's gone and won their hearts

Is he still in bed?

Or in the shower?

Even if he's dead

They won't allow a

Man to show up after the appointed hour.

(Anatoly enters after a long pause, shakes hands with Freddie and they start to play. Florence and Svetlana join the group)

ANATOLY

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

FREDDIE

So he's gonna fight

This situation

Where's my appetite

For concentration

Why is he so focused

When my thoughts are straying?

Looking at this man

It's her I'm seeing

Once my greatest fan

And now her being

His still gets to me

And screws the way I'm playing

SVETLANA

Here I see a man caring

About a minor sporting triumph, sharing

A show with esoterics,

Paranoids, hysterics

Who don't pay attention to

What goes on around them

They leave the ones they touch 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.

To chess!

FREDDIE

At last! He's made a mistake!

ANATOLY

I cannot go on hurting all the people who

have trusted me

FREDDIE

He will not escape from here!

ANATOLY

Well here we are --

The final stages of a soul-destroying game

The sacrifice of someone I will never find again

FREDDIE ANATOLY

Check! Never!

Check! Never!

Check! Never!

Check! Never!

Check! Never!

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

ANATOLY

There is nothing more to do

No hope, no way

To save the game;

The end of play!

So I lose today

And tomorrow --

ARBITER

Frederick Trumper of the United States retains his world chess title.

announcer

We're here in Bangkok as Freddie Trumper wins the world chess championship in just the greatest comeback the sport has ever seen....

DELEGATES/ARBITER'S ASSISTANTS

THIS IS A GREAT DAY FOR AMERICAN CHESS

announcer

(on screens)

There you have it, ladies and gentlemen. Frederick Trumper retains his world chess title in a match with as much drama as any in living memory. Already the world is screaming for a rematch between the American legend and the unheralded Soviet who defected just one victory away from the title and never won another game. This just in...the valiant defeated challenger has disappeared. Antoly Sergievsky has failed to follow the champion into the hotel lobby for the post-m