'Chess', the musical which was written by the legendary Sir Tim Rice together with Abba legends Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus celebrates its 37th birthday this year.

It opened at London's Prince Edward Theatre in May 1986 and almost 37 years to the day, Penarth Operatic & Dramatic Society (PODS) will be putting on a new staging of the musical at the Paget Rooms in Penarth.

PODS were thrilled this week to receive a personal letter of support from Sir Tim ahead of their own opening of his musical.

"I am delighted to hear that Penarth Operatic and Dramatic Society are presenting a production of CHESS" he wrote.

"CHESS is a complex musical but one of my favourites and I think there are enough great songs to keep audiences happy even if they don't get every nuance of the story – which as the story's creator I am convinced is extremely easy to understand!"

"Good luck to one and all whether on stage, back stage, under the stage, above the stage or working in remote parts of the theatre. With very best wishes and thanks." – Tim Rice

Telling a story of political intrigue and set against the background of the Cold War in the late 1970s and early 80s, two chess masters travel from the snow-capped mountains of Italy to Bangkok as they play out their moves and battle for the world championship. But their greatest contest is for the love of one woman.

The score features incredible songs such as One Night in Bangkok, Nobody's Side, Anthem and I Know Him so Well which took Elaine Paige and Barbara Dickson to the number one spot in the UK charts for four weeks.

Fiona Porter-Smith, who is directing Chess for PODS said "I am so touched to receive a good luck message from Sir Tim Rice – what a legend! The lyrics of Chess are phenomenal and it's quite humbling that he would take time out of his day to send us such a thoughtful note. I was really fortunate to play the role of Svetlana in Chess when it was performed in Penarth 21 years ago so I jumped at the chance to direct it for PODS this year. To say that I can't wait to bring it to the stage in May is an understatement – it's the most amazing show."

Chess is on at the Paget Rooms in Penarth from 17th to 20th May and tickets can be booked at www.ticketsource.co.uk/pods