SIX the Musical: A Global Sensation Returns to Melbourne
Melbourne is about to be swept off its feet as the international phenomenon, SIX the Musical, gears up to open in just over two weeks. Rehearsals are in full swing, with the entire company dedicated to delivering a show that promises to captivate audiences with its innovative and empowering take on history. This groundbreaking musical redefines the boundaries of musical theatre, engaging audiences of all ages with its unique storytelling.
SIX, which has won multiple Tony Awards, is set to reign once more at Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre starting August 2, 2024. Following Melbourne, the musical will move to Sydney’s Theatre Royal on October 25, 2024, and then to Brisbane’s QPAC Playhouse on January 2, 2025.
SIX narrates the extraordinary tales of the six wives of King Henry VIII, who step out of his shadow to reclaim their own stories. Written by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, this modern pop-inspired musical transforms these historical figures into fierce pop stars. The show takes audiences on a journey through the lives of Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anna of Cleves, Katherine Howard, and Catherine Parr, each telling their own story with a contemporary twist.
The cast for this Australian production is nothing short of stellar. Kimberley Hodgson, fresh from her role as Anita in West Side Story on Sydney Harbour, plays the feisty Catherine of Aragon. Deirdre Khoo, a WAAPA graduate recently seen in The Rocky Horror Show, takes on the role of the rebellious Anne Boleyn. Loren Hunter reprises her role as the loyal Jane Seymour, while Zelia Rose Kitoko, known for her debut in Hamilton, plays the independent Anna of Cleves. Chelsea Dawson returns as the playful Katherine Howard, and Giorgia Kennedy steps in as the empowering Catherine Parr, directly from understudying in & Juliet.
Supporting these leading ladies are the talented swings: Gabriella Boumford, Thalia Smith, Chiara Assetta (also Dance Captain), and Cristina D’Agostino (Resident Choreographer/Assistant to the Director). The on-stage band includes Music Director Claire Healy (Keys), Assistant Music Director Heidi Maguire (Keys), Kathryn Stammers (Drums), Danielle Colligan (Guitar), and Ann Metry (Bass). This dynamic company is brought together under the direction of Australian Associate Director Sharon Millerchip.
Since its debut at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, SIX has been lauded for its infectious energy, catchy tunes, and empowering messages. It has taken London’s West End by storm and has gained international acclaim with productions in Australia, Canada, the United States, Europe, and South Korea. New productions are also slated for Singapore, the Philippines, and Japan.
SIX’s popularity is undeniable, with over 3.5 million people seeing it each year and over 1.5 million social media followers worldwide. The show has racked up over 32 million views on TikTok and its original Studio Cast Recording, along with SIX: Live on Opening Night Broadway, has a combined streaming figure of over 1 billion. The musical has won 35 major international awards, including two Tony Awards for Best Original Score and Best Costume Design, and has received a Grammy nomination for Best Musical Theatre Album. Co-Director Lucy Moss is notably the youngest female-identifying person to direct a Broadway musical in over 40 years.
What truly sets SIX apart is its resonance with diverse audiences and its fresh approach to historical storytelling. The musical’s cleverly crafted lyrics and contemporary sound bridge the gap between past and present, making it accessible to both seasoned theatre-goers and newcomers. It has become a cultural touchstone, inspiring fans to embrace their own strength and celebrate the triumphs and struggles of these remarkable women.
SIX has also made a significant impact online, creating a vibrant community of fans, affectionately known as the ‘Queendom’. Its songs and themes have sparked viral trends on platforms like TikTok and YouTube, with fans sharing their love for the show through fan art, covers, and discussions.
As SIX continues to make its mark globally, it remains a groundbreaking musical that pushes boundaries and inspires audiences of all ages. The high-octane, fun-filled 80 minutes of entertainment promise to leave a lasting impression.
SIX the Musical is created by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, directed by Lucy Moss and Jamie Armitage, and choreographed by Carrie-Anne Ingrouille. The creative team includes Emma Bailey (Set Design), Gabriella Slade (Costume Design), Tim Deiling (Lighting Design), and Paul Gatehouse (Sound Design), with Tom Curran as Orchestrator and Joe Beighton as Musical Supervisor.
Originally produced by Kenny Wax, Wendy & Andy Barnes, and George Stiles, the Australian production is brought to life by Louise Withers, Michael Coppel, and Linda Bewick.
Season Details
Melbourne
Venue: Comedy Theatre
Dates: From 2 August 2024
Sydney
Venue: Theatre Royal Sydney
Dates: From 25 October 2024
Brisbane
Venue: Playhouse Theatre, QPAC
Dates: From 2 January 2025
Tickets are on sale now at sixthemusical.com.au
