Revolution takes center stage in “Six,” a groundbreaking musical that reimagines Henry VIII’s six wives as a vibrant pop girl group competing in a concert-style format. This innovative approach transforms Tudor history into a modern celebration of female empowerment, making historical figures accessible to younger audiences through contemporary musical theatre elements.
The 80-minute production features six solo songs alongside three energetic group numbers, all designed as high-energy anthems with synchronized choreography. The entire performance runs without intermission, allowing the audience to fully immerse in the queens’ compelling stories.
The musical begins with a competition, as each queen attempts to prove she suffered most at Henry’s hands. Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anna of Cleves, Katherine Howard, and Catherine Parr each receive distinct characterization through their individual songs. Jane Seymour’s emotional “Heart of Stone” addresses her love for Henry and tragic death after childbirth, while Anne of Cleves confidently celebrates her freedom following annulment.
Katherine Howard’s darker narrative exposes lifelong manipulation by men, drawing parallels to modern pop stars’ experiences.
Throughout the performance, the queens appear in modernized Tudor costumes that reflect their unique musical styles and personalities. The score features catchy pop melodies with impressive vocal riffs and contemporary arrangements that feel current and relevant. The musical was originally composed by university students Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss while they were studying. This blend of historical biography with modern musical elements creates an effective bridge between 16th-century history and 21st-century sensibilities.
The Broadway production currently runs at the Lena Horne Theatre, which made history as the first Broadway theater named after a Black woman when it was renamed in 2021.
As the story progresses, the competitive framework evolves meaningfully. The queens shift from belittling each other’s suffering to recognizing their shared oppression by a single man. They ultimately realize they are “more than a wife” and transcend their historical definitions.
This thematic shift demonstrates how female solidarity strengthens their collective voice more effectively than internal competition. The musical cleverly addresses the regressive nature of women competing for validation while celebrating the power found in unity, offering audiences both entertainment and a thoughtful message about female empowerment across the centuries.
