JoJo Returning to Broadway in Hit Revival of “Chess”: ‘It Feels Incredibly Right’ (Exclusive)

**JoJo Levesque to Take on Lead Role in Broadway’s ‘Chess’ This June**

Joanna “JoJo” Levesque, the acclaimed singer and actress, is poised to make her mark on Broadway once again. She is set to step into the role of Florence Vassy in the iconic musical Chess, beginning on Tuesday, June 23, at the Imperial Theatre in New York City. JoJo replaces Lea Michele, who has captivated audiences in the role since the revival’s inception.

In an exclusive statement, Levesque expressed her excitement about joining the production. “It’s an incredible, exciting opportunity,” she commented. “As soon as I saw this production, I couldn’t stop getting chills. It feels incredibly right, and while it will definitely pose a challenge, I’m ready to embrace it.”

Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, Chess features an intense chess tournament between American grandmaster Freddie Trumper and Soviet grandmaster Anatoly Sergievsky, both vying for the affection of Vassy. The musical’s compositions stem from the creative talents of Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, former members of ABBA, in collaboration with lyricist Tim Rice.

Levesque, who made her Broadway debut as Satine in the recent adaptation of Moulin Rouge! The Musical, is familiar with the demands and vibrancy of the theatrical world. Her previous performances have garnered critical acclaim, and she formed a friendship with Aaron Tveit, who plays Freddie in Chess. “He is such an amazing scene partner and a generous friend,” she said, fondly recalling their time together in Moulin Rouge!

Nicholas Christopher, who portrays Anatoly, is another talent Levesque is eager to work alongside. “I was not familiar with his work before, but hearing him sing was truly impressive,” she remarked. Levesque’s enthusiasm for both Tveit and Christopher highlights her anticipation for joining this talented cast.

Levesque is taking over the role of Florence from Lea Michele, who is set to give her final performance on Sunday, July 21. Their introduction was serendipitous; Levesque attended a performance of Chess in February, shortly after receiving the opportunity to join the show herself. “I was so excited to spend time with Lea backstage,” Levesque shared, commenting on the support she felt from Michele, who had recommended her to the producers.

Transitioning from a pop music background to musical theatre, Levesque acknowledges the complexities of creating a Broadway production. “Writers like Andersson and Ulvaeus operate on a different level,” she explained. “The ambition and creativity involved in crafting a musical that conveys stories through song is truly magnificent. I’ve fallen in love with the melodies and lyrics; everything about it is beautiful.”

Since her debut in Moulin Rouge!, Levesque’s commitment to the stage has remained steadfast. She recently portrayed Tess McGill in the stage adaptation of the 1988 film Working Girl at the La Jolla Playhouse in San Diego. “Diving into the Broadway schedule is essential for preparation,” Levesque asserted. “It consumes your life and demands a high level of discipline and commitment.”

Reflecting on her cherished experiences within theatre, Levesque describes the overwhelming joy she felt after her time in Moulin Rouge!. “The support and warmth I felt from my fellow cast members and the wider New York theatre community was invaluable,” she elaborated. The star’s connection to theatre traces back to her childhood, where she performed in The Who’s Tommy at six years old, igniting a lifelong passion for the stage.

JoJo Levesque’s portrayal of Florence in Chess will take place from June 23 to September 13, and tickets are now available for purchase. With her wealth of talent and experience, many expect that she will bring a fresh and vibrant energy to this beloved production, promising to leave an indelible mark on Broadway once again.