Fusion Theatre checks into the Island Hall

The 70 strong group are fresh from various awards ceremonies in both England and the Republic of Ireland, where they picked up nominations for recent productions: Best Chorus, and Best Musical Director (the Association of Irish Musical Societies – Beauty and the Beast), and Best Youth show and Best Overall Show (National Operatic and Dramatic Association :NI Region – HMS Pinafore). Ian Milford won the award for Best Director from AIMS, and Fusion Theatre won the Best Youth Show from NODA.

The regular Fusion production team of Ian Milford (MD/Director) and Rebecca Leonard (choreographer) is at the helm of this challenging production, but promise that Chess will be an all singing and all dancing spectacular, with familiar songs such as ‘I know him so well’, made famous in the 1980’s by Elaine Paige and Barbara Dickson, and the haunting ‘Anthem’.

“You don’t need to know anything about the game of Chess to enjoy this show,” said Director Ian Milford. “It is just set in the World Chess Championship. The themes which we are trying to bring through are more everyday: the eternal triangle - boy meets girl, girl meets another boy, girl has to decide. However, there are also fascinating historical issues around the Cold War, and the Hungarian Revolution, which I also want to explore. It has been a real labour of love for me, and I am delighted that the talented cast are rising to the undoubted challenge which I have set.”

The cast are currently approaching two intensive weekends of rehearsals before launching the production, and say that they are really enjoying the show, with its combination of rock opera, and musical style.

Tickets are already selling well, and anyone interested in seeing this latest lavish production from this supremely talented local group should book their tickets now, by calling the Box Office on 9250 9254, calling in person, or online at www.tickets.lisburncity.gov.uk.