Nicholas Christopher, Broadways Grand Master

Published: Monday, November 10, 2025 at 11:00 am

Broadway Star Prepares for "Chess" Revival with Deep Dive into Russian Culture

New York, NY - Broadway actor Nicholas Christopher is immersing himself in Russian culture and the game of chess as he prepares for a revival of the musical "Chess." The production, featuring music by ABBA's Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, centers on a Cold War-era chess match between an American and a Soviet champion, with a woman caught in the middle. Christopher takes on the role of Anatoly Sergievsky, the Soviet chess master, a character inspired by real-life grandmasters.

To prepare for the role, Christopher, who admits to having limited knowledge of chess, has been diligently studying the game. He utilizes online resources and YouTube tutorials to learn the moves and strategies. He draws parallels between the game and acting, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changing situations.

Beyond the game itself, Christopher is delving into Russian culture to better understand his character. He has been spending time with two friends, Roman and Pasha Gambourg, who have provided him with insights into Russian life and perspectives. Through family dinners and conversations, Christopher is gaining a deeper understanding of the complexities of Russian identity, which is crucial for his portrayal of Anatoly, a character grappling with the decision to defect.

Christopher's preparation also includes observing the nuances of Russian behavior and communication. He has learned about the importance of subtlety and the unexpected openness that can emerge. He has also met a Ukrainian chess champion, now living in the United States, who shared his experiences and passion for the game.

BNN's Perspective:

This story highlights the dedication and commitment of actors to their craft. Christopher's willingness to immerse himself in a new culture and learn a complex game demonstrates the lengths to which performers will go to bring authenticity to their roles. While the musical "Chess" may have struggled in its initial run, the revival has the potential to resonate with audiences through its exploration of political tensions and personal choices.

Keywords: Nicholas Christopher, Chess, Broadway, musical, Anatoly Sergievsky, Russian, chess, revival, Tim Rice, ABBA, Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, Cold War, acting, culture, Roman Gambourg, Pasha Gambourg, Ukraine, Denys.

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