SIX Turns the Wives of Henry VIII into Pop Icons in an Energetic Celebration of Female Empowerment
Musical theater lovers are a diverse crowd. The older generation, who appreciate a Rogers and Hammerstein ballad, sits side by side with the younger attendee, who celebrates Lin-Manuel Miranda’s modern musical interpretations. With SIX, the premise, score, and staging turn a short musical into a celebration of woman power.
Even before the curtain call, Dr. Phillips Center’s audience cheered raucously during SIX. As each of the divas pleads their case through their signature musical numbers, these moments are not akin to The Voice voting or other popularity contests. Yes, the musical’s premise begins with crowning King Henry VIII’s most worthy wife. But the musical is more than just earning praise. It is redefining women’s roles both on and off the stage.
When SIX made its West End debut in 2017, the concept was a departure from the well-attended shows. With a small, all-women cast and band on stage, the 90-minute show felt more like a concert or even a large-scale cabaret show. But the storyline, humor, and strong performances turned it into an instant hit.
Continuing on its National Tour, SIX ended its Dr. Phillips Center 25/26 Broadway in Orlando season. Even before the lights dimmed, the audience played their part. Dressed in honor of their favorite queen, everyone was ready to clap, cheer, and even sing along to this version of English history.
“SIX transforms history into an empowering celebration of women finding their voices.”
All six queens excelled in their roles. From Emma Elizabeth Smith’s perfect high C in “No Way,” to Kelly Denice Taylor’s emotive performance of “Heart of Stone,” all the ladies earned high praise from their adoring fans.
Yes, all the songs have classic pop music hooks and beats, but it is the women's powerful voices that make people listen to the words. Instead of just the simple labels of divorced, beheaded, survived, it is the women’s characteristics that help them navigate those societal restrictions. Each story serves as a reminder to avoid the superficial and dig deeper into a person’s story.
While everyone has their favorite queen, I am drawn to one song over and over. Maybe it is the unusual nature, but “Haus of Holbein” (performed by all the Queens) makes me smile every time. The infectious beats of German techno music with glow-in-the-dark effects continues to draw me in.
Or, maybe it is the perfect lead-up to “Get Down.” Hailey Alexis Lewis nails the confident Anna of Cleves. The queen’s portrait might have catfished Henry VIII, but Lewis’ voice, impressive dance moves and captivating personality outshine any two-dimensional royal portrayal.
Dr. Phillips Center was smart to close its season with this show. The performances are extremely entertaining. The audience is engaged from the first note until they dance out of the theater.
With the upcoming SIX: The Musical (Universal Pictures) movie coming to theaters later this summer, the screen adaptation needs to capture at least a fraction of the energy, engagement, and enthusiasm that audiences continue to have for the retelling of this “herstory.”
SIX plays Dr. Phillips Center through June 7. The national tour continues throughout the summer.
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