Experience the Lure of Henry VIII’s Wives with a VIP Package for SIX the Musical in London

‘SIX’ the Musical: Rewriting History with a Sassy Sisterhood

By Archyde News Journalist

Published: March 21, 2025

London’s Vaudeville Theatre becomes a stage for a historical remix as the six wives of Henry VIII reclaim their narratives in “SIX” the Musical.

A Tudor Take-Off that Rocks

Forget the history books. “SIX,” created by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, reimagines the stories of Henry VIII’s wives as a pop concert, turning centuries-old tales of heartbreak and betrayal into an empowering party of sisterhood. The musical, which has taken the West End, Broadway, and beyond by storm, gives each queen a chance to “take the mic” and tell her story, offering a fresh outlook on the historical figures.

Imagine if the Founding Fathers of the United States were characters in a hip-hop musical, or if the women of the American Revolution were given a platform to share their experiences through song and dance. “SIX” offers a similar reframing of history, allowing audiences to connect with these figures in a new and engaging way.

From the West End to Broadway: An International Sensation

The musical’s success is undeniable. Garnering praise for its talented cast and fiercely energetic on-stage band, “SIX” has become a sell-out sensation. The Olivier Award-nominated production has resonated with audiences in London, New York, and across the globe. For fans of musical theater in the U.S., this show aligns with the popularity of history-inspired productions like “Hamilton,” demonstrating a public appetite for historical narratives with a modern twist.

The success of “SIX” on both sides of the Atlantic highlights the enduring appeal of British history within American culture. From PBS documentaries about the royal family to the popularity of historical fiction set in Tudor England, Americans have long been fascinated by the lives and dramas of the British monarchy.

Meet the Queens: Aragon, Boleyn, Seymour, Cleves, Howard, and Parr

Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anna of Cleves, Katherine Howard, and Catherine Parr. These women,often reduced to footnotes in history books,are the stars of “SIX.” The musical gives each of them a distinct voice, allowing them to express their joys, sorrows, and frustrations in a way that feels both contemporary and timeless. This modern retelling resonates with today’s audiences, particularly women, who find empowerment in these historical figures’ stories.

Consider, such as, how the portrayal of these queens challenges customary gender roles. Rather of being passive victims of circumstance, they take control of their narratives and assert their agency. This reinterpretation aligns with ongoing discussions in the U.S. regarding female empowerment and the importance of diverse representation in media.

More Than Just a Show: An Experience

Beyond the captivating performances, “SIX” offers a unique experience. Imagine a post-show reception where audience members can perhaps meet select cast members. The experience extends beyond the stage, allowing for a deeper connection with the characters and the themes of the musical.

The show emphasizes the importance of historical reframing, which resonates with today’s understanding of women with a new perspective.

Why ‘SIX’ Resonates: Fresh Insights and Analysis

‘SIX’s’ popularity can be attributed to several factors. It’s historical, but accessible, blending education with entertainment. Its music is catchy and contemporary,appealing to a younger demographic frequently enough excluded from the traditional historical narrative. It tackles themes of female empowerment and historical injustice, resonating with current social movements.

The show also cleverly addresses potential counterarguments by giving each queen a chance to tell her story in her own way. This allows the audience to form their own opinions and engage with the historical narrative critically.

The Highlights Package: A Royal Treat

The full experience may include elements such as:

• Pre-show and post-show hospitality with a complimentary glass of champagne or soft drink.
• A private reception after the show.
• Meeting the cast at the post-show experience.

Potential Counterarguments and Criticisms

While “SIX” has received widespread acclaim,some critics argue that it oversimplifies complex historical events and potentially trivializes the experiences of these women. Some historians might find the musical’s liberties with historical accuracy problematic. However, proponents argue that “SIX” is not intended to be a definitive historical account, but rather a reimagining that sparks interest in the Tudor period and encourages further exploration of these women’s lives.

‘SIX’ and the Future of Historical Storytelling

“SIX” points towards a future where historical narratives are more inclusive, engaging, and accessible. By using popular music and a contemporary sensibility, “SIX” has successfully broadened the audience for historical storytelling and empowered a new generation to connect with the past. As American theater continues to evolve, “SIX” serves as a model for how to make history relevant and exciting for modern audiences.

‘SIX: The Musical’ – key Facts

Aspect	Details
Core Concept	Six wives of Henry VIII tell their stories as a pop concert.
Creators	Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss
Themes	Historical re-envisioning, female empowerment, sisterhood
Locations	West End, Broadway, global tours
Target Audience	Fans of musicals, history enthusiasts, millennial and Gen Z audiences

Considering teh show’s meta storytelling approach,which utilizes its own theatrical brand of history to explore issues of power,agency,and representation,which fictional characters from novels,plays,or films could be given the ‘SIX’ treatment with equally compelling results?

‘SIX’ the Musical: A Conversation with Dr. Evelyn reed on Rewriting History

Dr. Evelyn Reed is a Professor of Historical Theatre at the University of London, specializing in the intersection of history, performance, and gender studies. She has written extensively on the representation of historical figures on stage and screen.Today, we discuss the phenomenal success of “SIX” the Musical.

Welcome, Dr. Reed! “SIX” has taken the world by storm. What, in your expert opinion, makes this musical so compelling?

it’s a pleasure to be here, thank you for having me. “SIX” is captivating for several reasons. Primarily, it provides a fresh and empowering perspective on these often-overlooked women. The musical reframes the narrative, allowing the Queens—Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, anna of Cleves, Katherine Howard, and catherine Parr— to control their own stories, in turn providing fresh insights on female empowerment.This resonates deeply with contemporary audiences, especially women, who appreciate seeing these historical figures take centre stage. We see their joys, sorrows, and frustrations, giving them agency through telling their stories.

The musical cleverly blends modern musical styles with historical context. How does this combination contribute to its success?

The juxtaposition is brilliant. the pop concert format makes history accessible and engaging, especially for younger audiences who might not typically gravitate towards historical narratives. This fusion also adds a level of entertainment that moves the plot along in a way that is fun, engaging, and captivating. The music is catchy as a pop tune, while the lyrics still do justice in telling the royal stories. It’s a smart way to breathe new life into tales that might or else feel distant.

The show has been praised on both sides of the Atlantic. Why do you think a story about British history continues to resonate so strongly with American audiences?

American captivation with British history is a long-standing affair. From the royal family to historical dramas, there’s a continuous interest in the lives and dramas of British figures. “SIX” taps into this by re-imagining events from a modern perspective, offering an exciting new approach to an already popular topic.

“SIX” has faced some criticism for taking liberties with historical accuracy. How would you address those concerns?

That is a valid point.While it uses historical events and these characters as a base, “SIX” isn’t intended to be a strictly historical account. It’s a reimagining, designed to spark interest and encourage further exploration. The musical is meant to entertain and inspire further discussion. The show is a modern take, not necessarily a historical textbook.

Considering the show’s success, how do you see “SIX” influencing the future of historical storytelling?

“SIX” is setting a model for how historical narratives can be reimagined. It’s helping to make the past more inclusive, engaging, and accessible for a wider audience. By embracing modern music and sensibility, it demonstrates how we can make history relevant and exciting for audiences and open it up for discussion, thus connecting a new generation to the past.

Thinking about the post-show experience, the chance to meet the cast seems unique. In your opinion, how does this enhance audience engagement and the show’s lasting impact?

Having a post-show reception and the opportunity to meet the cast allows for a deeper connection with the characters and the themes of the musical. The experience extends beyond the stage. The experience provides fans an opportunity to personally connect with the ‘Queens’ and the story.

Now, a thought-provoking question for our readers: Beyond henry VIII’s wives, which other historical figures do you think would benefit from a “SIX”-style reimagining, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

dr.Reed, thank you for this illuminating perspective on “SIX” the Musical.