Six the Musical at Theatre Royal Sydney is an electric and audacious reimagining of history, bringing the six wives of Henry VIII back to the stage with unapologetic fierceness and rock-star bravado. This dynamic show reclaims the voices of these iconic women, transforming their legacies from mere footnotes in a notorious king’s history to a thrilling showcase of individuality, resilience, and empowerment. Each queen takes centre stage in a unique, pop-concert-style showdown, vying for the title of “most wronged” wife while shedding light on their lives, loves, and losses. The plot is fresh, fast-paced, and engaging, combining cheeky humour, quick wit, and a killer soundtrack that resonates long after the final note.
The musical direction by Claire Healy is a masterclass in precision and energy. Healy’s guidance fuels the high-octane show with an impeccable balance between the bold vocal performances and the driving beat of the live band, setting the stage for each queen to showcase their unique style while maintaining a tight musical experience that feels as explosive as it is harmonious. Each song unfolds like an anthem, fuelled by the powerful instrumentation and Healy’s musical mastery, creating an immersive concert vibe that has the audience cheering from start to finish.
The resident choreographer and assistant to the director, Cristina D’Agostino, has done a phenomenal job of teaching the movement that complements and amplifies each queen’s personality. The direction is sharp, spirited, and undeniably fun, giving each queen the physical freedom to embody their story with sass and strength. The result is a seamless blend of dance and storytelling, with every move, spin, and strut reflecting the queens’ individual journeys and struggles. This synergy between music and movement underscores each queen’s persona, bringing their bold identities to life in a show that’s as visually compelling as it is musically exhilarating.
The queens, led by Kimberley Hodgson as Catherine of Aragon, each bring their unique flair to the performance. Hodgson’s Aragon is both regal and unbreakable, a fierce start to the lineup of queens who refuse to be sidelined by history. Deirdre Khoo’s Anne Boleyn steals the spotlight with her wicked sense of humour and rebellious energy, delivering a rollicking performance that blends charm with wit. Loren Hunter’s portrayal of Jane Seymour, the “one he truly loved,” brings raw vulnerability to the stage, her powerhouse ballad a heartfelt tribute to her role as a mother and wife.
Zelia Rose Kitoko lights up the stage as Anna of Cleves, embodying strength and self-assurance in a performance that celebrates the queen’s self-worth and independence. Chelsea Dawson, as Katherine Howard, delivers a standout performance with her mix of innocence and allure, balancing her character’s tragic fate with a popstar energy that’s magnetic and moving. Giorgia Kennedy, as Catherine Parr, closes the show on a profound note, her stirring vocals and passionate presence serving as a reminder of these women’s untold stories.
Six the Musical is a high-energy, vibrant celebration of the queens who are more than just the king’s wives. This show offers an empowering, unforgettable experience, one that is as bold and beautiful as the queens themselves. Get ready to rock – because these queens are rewriting the history books, one epic anthem at a time.
– The other Daniel Craig
Daniel Craig is an international performer and has established himself as a trusted theatre specialist on the Sydney Arts Scene. While he understands the technical side of theatre, Dan writes for the everyday theatregoer (unlike some of those more prominent publications). When not in the audience, he loves to travel the world trying new gin. Follow him on all the socials @talldancraig
Six the Musical runs for 80 minutes (no interval) and plays at the Theatre Royal Sydney through 28 December 2024. Tickets are available through the Theatre Royal Sydney.
Disclosure: The Plus Ones were guests of Romina Favero.
Image credit: James D Morgan
