Six The Musical
A Regal Riot of Pop and Power
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Forget everything you know about Henry VIII’s wives, because Six the Musical is rewriting history with sass, soul, and spectacle at the Theatre Royal Sydney. This isn’t your typical lesson in Tudor history – it’s an electric, unapologetic pop concert that reclaims the voices of the six wives of Henry VIII, giving each queen her moment to stand centre stage and set the record straight. And these Aussie queens are absolute fire.
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Image by ​James D. Morgan
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Kimberley Hodgson commands attention from the moment she steps out as Catherine of Aragon, the first wife and the queen who was cast aside for a younger bride. Hodgson’s vocal range is jaw-dropping, moving from powerful belting to soulful refrains, all wrapped up in a performance filled with strength and defiance. With every note, she’s defiant yet dignified, a blend of sass and grace that’s impossible to ignore.
Then there’s Deirdre Khoo as the famously flirtatious Anne Boleyn, who is all cheek and charm with a voice that hits you like a bolt of lightning. Khoo brings an energetic, feisty edge to the role that’s cheeky, endearing, and downright fun. Her portrayal of Boleyn is irresistibly playful, making it easy to see why she’s a personal favourite for many. She brings a wonderful blend of humour and mischief that lights up the stage.
Loren Hunter reprises her role as Jane Seymour, the third wife and supposedly “only one he truly loved.” Hunter has a knack for tugging on the heartstrings, shifting effortlessly from hilarious one-liners to heart-wrenching vulnerability. Her soulful, raw vocals bring a unique texture to the show, and her performance as Seymour is both grounding and deeply moving. She’ll have you laughing one minute and reaching for tissues the next, all while making you question the legacy that history handed Jane.
As Anna of Cleves, Zelia Rose Kitoko is pure confidence and swagger. In a role that’s equal parts regal and rebellious, she brings a magnetic presence, strutting through her scenes with an attitude that redefines royal power. She’s not just “the German princess” who was cast aside – she’s a queen who knows her worth and shows it with every sly smile and commanding stance. Kitoko brings gravitas and energy to the role, making Cleves a true force on stage. I’d be her “lady-in-waiting” any day!
Chelsea Dawson brings real depth to Katherine Howard, the youngest and perhaps most misunderstood of Henry’s wives. Often dismissed as the “temptress” who met a tragic end, Howard’s story is one of resilience, strength, and complex vulnerability. Dawson’s portrayal is electrifying, capturing both Howard’s youthful innocence and her tragic fate with nuance and power. Her rendition of “All You Wanna Do” peels back layers of a character who has often been reduced to a single note, making us reconsider everything we thought we knew about her.
Finally, Giorgia Kennedy steps into the shoes of Catherine Parr, Henry’s final wife and the one who ultimately survived him. Kennedy’s voice is as smooth as silk, soaring through each note with effortless power. She brings a grounded, soulful presence to the stage, capturing the essence of a woman who was more than just “the survivor.” She’s the queen who brought her own legacy to the table, standing tall and belting out notes that resonate long after the final chord.
These incredible queens aren’t alone on stage – they’re supported by their dynamic “ladies in waiting,” the all-female band that brings just as much character and charisma to the show. Led by Music Director Claire Healy on keys, with Kathryn Stammers on drums, Danielle Colligan on guitar, and Ann Metry on bass, this band is as much a part of the action as the queens themselves. They provide the pulse of the show, adding energy, edge, and character to every beat, riff, and rhythm. Together, they’re a vital part of what makes Six such a high-energy, unforgettable experience.
What’s truly brilliant about this production is how it’s evolved with each new cast. Six has seen countless iterations worldwide, and every queen brings her own twist, making each version fresh and fiercely original. This Aussie cast not only honours the humour and tragedy woven into the show but also brings a unique local flavour, leaning into the pop, fun, and drama in a way that feels authentic and powerful. It’s history as you’ve never seen it before, and this cast is determined to make sure you never forget it.
Six the Musical is a show that’s impossible to pigeonhole – it’s part concert, part comedy, part history, and all heart. Whether you’re a history buff, a theatre enthusiast, or just in for a night of brilliant storytelling and powerhouse vocals, this show has something for everyone. With humour, emotion, and a soundtrack that’ll have you dancing out of the theatre, Six is a five-star hit you won’t want to miss.
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