Get ready to experience a musical like no other. Six is a show that has taken the world by storm, combining history and pop music in a way that captivates audiences from start to finish. This incredible production tells the story of Henry VIII’s six wives, each taking centre stage to sing their side of the tale.
With its catchy tunes, energetic choreography, and witty lyrics, Six has become an instant sensation since its debut. The show has garnered rave reviews from critics and audiences, earning numerous awards and accolades. But what makes Six so unique? Lillie and I went to see it last night at New Theatre and were blown away, it was a sellout performance, and the audience couldn’t get enough of it.
The Enchantment of Six
Six the Musical is a modern retelling of the lives of King Henry VIII’s six wives. The musical tells the story in an unconventional and entertaining way, using pop songs and a girl group format (including an all-female support band known as the Ladies in Waiting) to bring each queen’s unique personality to life. This clever approach has earned Six a huge following worldwide, with audiences drawn in by its lively music, witty lyrics and stunning performances.
At its heart, Six celebrates female empowerment and sisterhood. Each queen takes turns telling her story and singing her song, showcasing their strengths and shared experiences with love and loss. Through this celebration of powerful women who refused to be defined solely by their marriages to King Henry VIII, Six has become an empowering anthem for young women everywhere.
One of the key reasons that Six has been so successful is that it refuses to take itself too seriously. This was what really resonated with me; I particularly loved Anne Boleyn and Anne of Cleves.
History: From a school project to Broadway
The musical was written by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, who were students at Cambridge University when they conceived the idea for Six as a school project. The show premiered in 2017 at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and received rave reviews. It went on to have successful runs in London’s West End and Chicago before making its way to Broadway.
Six is a unique blend of history and pop culture, with each queen taking on their music genre,s such as pop, rap, or rock. The show has been praised for its catchy tunes and empowering themes that celebrate female empowerment while shining a light on historical figures often overshadowed by their infamous husband. As the popularity of Six grew, it became clear that this small school project had something special that resonated with audiences far beyond Cambridge University.
Characters: Six Wives, Six Powerful Stories
The six wives – Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleves, Katherine Howard and Catherine Parr – are given her unique personality and story arc. They are all strong and powerful women in their own right, each with their own struggles and accomplishments. Through their individual songs and performances, they share their stories with audiences in an entertaining and informative way.
Not only does Six highlight the lives of these historical figures, but it also sheds light on issues still relevant today, such as feminism and body positivity.
Music: An eclectic mix of genres and styles
The musical is a dynamic show that blends an eclectic mix of genres and styles. The music takes inspiration from various musical styles like pop, hip-hop, rap, R&B, electronic dance music (EDM), and more.
One of the unique features of Six is its seamless blend of different genres into one cohesive sound. The opening song, “Ex-Wives”, sets the tone for what’s to come with its powerful rock sound mixed with modern beats and lyrics reminiscent of contemporary pop songs.
Feminism and Empowerment: A modern message through a historical lens
This musical tells the story of Henry VIII’s six wives from their perspective, portraying them as strong and independent women who refuse to be defined solely by their relationship with a man. The show is entertaining and sends a powerful message about feminism and female empowerment.
Through Six, we see how these women were often overlooked and dismissed in history because they were simply wives of a king. However, the musical gives each queen her own moment to shine, showcasing her talents and personality. By doing so, Six celebrates the power of sisterhood while also highlighting the importance of individuality. It sends a strong message that women should not be defined by their relationships or marriages but rather by who they are as individuals.
The fact that this musical is based on real historical events makes it all the more impactful.
I took Lillie as part of her birthday celebrations but also because I felt it was important for my 15-year-old daughter to see such a powerful show to remind her that she should never be defined by anyone other than herself. Having seen the show, I intend to return with my husband and our boys because they should see it too – it’s not just a great show, it has a strong message.
Impact: The global phenomenon and fan community
Six the Musical has taken the world by storm, attracting a loyal and dedicated fanbase from all corners of the globe.
One of the key factors behind Six’s success is its innovative use of social media to build a passionate fan community. From TikTok videos to Twitter threads, fans have found creative ways to engage with each other and show their love for the show. This online fandom has also helped spread awareness about Six beyond traditional theatre audiences, drawing in younger viewers who might not have otherwise discovered this type of musical.
The lasting legacy of Six
Six the Musical has left a lasting legacy on the theatre industry. This unique retelling of history through modern-day pop music and diverse casting has resonated with audiences worldwide. The show has sparked important conversations about women’s empowerment and the importance of telling marginalized stories. Its success has also paved the way for other musicals to explore new genres and themes. As we continue navigating a changing world, Six reminds us of the power of music, storytelling, and representation in shaping our collective cultural narrative. Don’t miss your chance to see this groundbreaking production and be a part of its enduring impact.
