Joe didn't know it was on and it's his most very favorite musical ever. So, instead of watching more season 7 West Wing, I surprised him Chess in Concert.

I've only ever heard the music, and really only a couple of songs at that. Obviously "One Night in Bankok" and the angsty-girl songs.

I really loved it. A lot. Barb - I finally get it about Josh Groban. Never did until tonight. I bow to your knowledge.

I loved Adam, as per usual...have ever since "one Song Glory" from Rent.

As for my girl, my love, Idina Menzel ... well, I have to be honest. I kind of prefer Elaine Paige. Elaine just belts it out so much richer and more ... I don't know -- womanly?? Elaine plays it so much stronger and with much more agency - to use a word my friends are fond of. Yeah, she got caught up in love and the romance of defecting Russian lover and what not, buther realization is much more cynical than Idina's portrayal came off. In particular on "Nobody's Side" (which is now my favorite musical song).

Now, I know it was just a concert and not a true performance of the show - it is one I'd LOVE to see a revival of on Broadway - so I might not be being fair to fair Idina. But I just like Elaine's voice quality better for this show. Idina was PERFECT for Wicked and Rent. But I think the role for Florence, you need a more cynical, adult, and much richer voice.

Thoughts?