Domenick brings CHESS the Musical to Norfolk

CHESS - The Musical in Concert is running from March 5-8 and March 12-15 at The Simcoe Little Theatre.

Leah Bauer

Advocate Contributor

As he describes it, theatre isn’t just a part of Andy Domenick’s life, “It is, quite definitively, my life - and I wouldn't have it any other way.” 

As a child, his sister encouraged Andy to audition for The Sound of Music, a production that was cancelled, which then led to his first debut as a member of the Shrek ensemble. Being able to pivot from the beloved musical to a children’s production about a green ogre with a talking donkey sidekick was just the beginning of Andy learning how to adapt to different roles. 

Andy wears many different hats, both in the theatre world and in his previous job experiences. He rotated through jobs such as an office clerk, a carpenter, selling siding for homes, and eventually he “transitioned fully into theatre and event production in Toronto.”

He has now brought his skills to Norfolk County where he works as the Head Technician with the Lighthouse Festival Theatre.

It was in this position at Lighthouse Festival where he was approached by Simcoe Little Theatre.

“I was asked if I wanted to direct a production for their upcoming 25/26 season. I immediately said yes, and knew exactly what show I wanted to bring to life in Simcoe - CHESS!”

In Chess, he is involved in almost all aspects of the production, all at once.

“On a personal level, this production has required me to take on a number of roles beyond directing,” he said. “In addition to serving as director, I have also acted as music director, set, lighting, and sound design, built most props, supported marketing efforts, and, of course, performing in the show.”

Andy describes Chess as a production that will take the audience “behind the scenes of an international chess championship, based on the real 1972 ‘match of the century.’”

Andy believes that in this production there “is a deeply human story about love tested by loyalty, political pressure, and the need to win. The show highlights how we act in public can often mask vulnerability, and how individuals can become pawns in larger ideological battles.”

The political content of a play set in the Cold War is not lost on Andy who describes how he thinks it will impact the audience.

“I also hope they take some time on self-reflection. This show takes place during the Cold War (over four decades ago). And yet the conflict and disputes seen onstage are repeated today. I think audiences will take some time and ask, how can we prevent the past from repeating itself.”

CHESS: The Musical in Concert is running from March 5-8 and March 12-15 at The Simcoe Little Theatre. Tickets start at $27 with youth pricing available. Buy tickets by calling 519-583-0505 or by visiting https://simcoelittletheatre.org/chess-the-musical/