one4review | On 21, Aug 2024

Kevin James Doyle’s After Endgame at the Edinburgh Fringe is a captivating blend of comedy, storytelling, and life lessons drawn from the strategic world of chess. Doyle masterfully weaves his experience of being flown to Singapore to teach chess to the ultra-wealthy with the broader narrative of life’s unpredictable moves.

The show opens with Doyle’s humorous take on the eccentricities of his new world, setting the stage for what seems like a straightforward tale. However, as the middle game unfolds, the complexities of chess begin to mirror his own life. The tension rises, both on and off the chessboard, as Doyle navigates a world of high-stakes players with hidden motives. The chess strategies he imparts to his elite students become metaphors for his personal battles, revealing a deeper, more poignant story.

Doyle’s accomplished storytelling is evident as he effortlessly ties the history of chess to his own journey. The endgame of his tale is both moving and emotional, leaving the audience reflecting on how life, much like chess, is a game of strategy, sacrifice, and survival. After Endgame is not just informative for chess enthusiasts but also a deeply personal experience that showcases Doyle’s unique ability to blend humour with profound insight.

3.5 stars
Reviewed by Gavin
Just the Tonic at the Caves
Just Up The Stairs
17.05 – 18.05
Until 25th August