Photo Coverage: Inside Opening Night of Abingdon Theatre Company's CHESS MATCH NO. 5

Abingdon Theatre Company, under the artistic direction of Tony Speciale, presents the world premiere of CHESS MATCH NO. 5, conceived and directed by Anne Bogart, with text arranged by Jocelyn Clarke from the words of John Cage. Created by Siti Company, CHESS MATCH NO. 5 began previews March 9, and opened officially last night, March 19, in Abingdon's June Havoc Theatre (312 West 36th Street).

Conceived and directed by Anne Bogart, CHESS MATCH NO. 5 is a new play by Jocelyn Clarke, based on texts from the many public conversations with American composer, writer, artist, and philosopher John Cage. SITI actors Will Bond and Ellen Lauren create a unique live art performance, part chess game and part music happening, which explores the words and ideas of a visionary artist. Come experience the wide-open mind-bending brilliance of Cage's insights about the world, about art and music, philosophy and the adventures that life presents through the conversations that he engaged in throughout his life. Dense and humorous, graceful and penetrating, this is Siti Company in an adventurous mood, landing lightly upon the profound truths to which we all can relate.

The production includes choreography by Barney O'Hanlon, scenic and costume design by James Schuette, lighting design by Brian H Scott, and sound design by Tony Award-winner Darron L West. CHESS MATCH NO. 5 was developed with support and insight from The John Cage Trust.