At Simpson’s in the Strand, chess has long been part of the fabric of the house. In the 19th century, players gathered here beneath the chandeliers to test nerve, judgement and patience over the chess board, making Simpson’s one of London’s great homes of the game. Yet our interest in chess extends beyond history.
The Assembly Room will swap event service for chessboards, as 12 players gather for an evening of strategy and spectacle.
Join us for an evening of chess, hosted by international concert pianist, chess enthusiast and all-round Renaissance man Jason Kouchak, with British Chess Grandmasters Stuart Conquest and Luke McShane.
The evening begins with simultaneous chess: Stuart Conquest taking on all 12 players at once. The three best performers will then face Luke McShane — who, in a feat of considerable concentration, will play the games blindfolded.
And then things take a turn. For the final round, all 12 players return to the board for Jazz Chess, a new game invented by Jason Kouchak especially for the evening. Quite what that means, you’ll have to come and find out.
Player tickets are strictly limited to 12 places and will be given on a first come, first served basis. Tickets are prices at £75 per player include a cocktail on arrival: The Immortal Game.
Prefer to watch rather than play? Spectator tickets are also available at £25, giving you a ringside seat for the games, Jason’s commentary and, naturally, a cocktail on arrival. Drinks from the bar will also be available to purchase.
Our next event is scheduled for Sunday 6th December. Do sign up to our newsletter to be the first to know when tickets go on sale.
How are Jeremy King’s chess skills? Some of us may be about to find out.Join us at Romano’s every afternoon, 3–6pm, for a game of chess. We’ll supply the boards; you bring the moves. Bring a friend, settle in with our Grand Café menu, cocktails and wines, and enjoy a little friendly competition. All abilities welcome — the more players, the merrier.
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