Six in NYC: Everything You Need to Know

Story Overview

Six is a vibrant and energetic musical that retells the story of Henry VIII’s six wives, presenting them as modern-day pop stars competing for the spotlight. The narrative is divided into two acts, each filled with catchy songs and witty dialogue. Here’s all you need to know before getting SIX tickets in NYC:

Act 1

The show opens with the wives introducing themselves and setting the stage for the competition to determine who had the worst experience with Henry VIII. Catherine of Aragon kicks off the contest with “No Way,” describing her unwavering loyalty despite Henry’s attempts to annul their marriage. Anne Boleyn follows with “Don’t Lose Ur Head,” highlighting her flirtatious nature and her ultimate beheading due to accusations of infidelity.

Jane Seymour’s “Heart of Stone” reveals a more somber tone as she reflects on being the only wife Henry truly loved but at the cost of her own life in childbirth. The act closes with “Haus of Holbein,” a lively and humorous song where the queens parody a dating app to select Henry’s next wife, Anna of Cleves.

Act 2

Anna of Cleves takes the stage with “Get Down,” a song that turns her annulled marriage into a celebration of independence and wealth. Katherine Howard’s “All You Wanna Do” begins as a fun recount of her romantic escapades but quickly turns dark, revealing the abuse and manipulation she suffered.

Catherine Parr, the last wife, changes the tone with “I Don’t Need Your Love,” questioning the competition’s premise and emphasizing her achievements. The queens unite in the final number, “Six,” reclaiming their stories and declaring their independence from Henry’s legacy. The show ends with “Megasix,” a high-energy encore that invites the audience to join in the celebration.

Cast Information

Original Cast

The original cast of Six featured a talented group of performers who brought the six queens to life with their unique vocal styles and charisma. The original West End cast included Jarnéia Richard-Noel as Catherine of Aragon, Millie O’Connell as Anne Boleyn, Natalie Paris as Jane Seymour, Alexia McIntosh as Anna of Cleves, Aimie Atkinson as Katherine Howard, and Maiya Quansah-Breed as Catherine Parr.

Current Cast

The current Broadway cast continues to captivate audiences with their dynamic performances. The lineup includes Adrianna Hicks as Catherine of Aragon, Andrea Macasaet as Anne Boleyn, Abby Mueller as Jane Seymour, Brittney Mack as Anna of Cleves, Samantha Pauly as Katherine Howard, and Anna Uzele as Catherine Parr. These talented performers bring fresh energy to the roles, making each performance a unique experience.

Venue Details

Sixon Broadway is performed at the Richard Rodgers Theatre, a historic venue located in the heart of Broadway. The theatre, named after the famous composer Richard Rodgers, offers an intimate setting that enhances the audience’s connection to the performers. With its rich history and excellent acoustics, the Richard Rodgers Theatre provides a perfect backdrop for the high-energy performances of Six.

Reviews

Six, the audacious musical that reimagines the lives of Henry VIII’s wives as pop stars, has taken the theater world by storm. Critics have largely praised the show for its clever concept, catchy music, and energetic performances. However, its revisionist approach to history has also sparked some debate.

Unapologetically Revisionist

The show’s greatest strength lies in its unapologetically revisionist take on history. Gone are the traditional portraits of meek and silent queens. Instead, Six presents these women as fierce, independent pop icons, singing about their experiences with Henry VIII through a modern lens. This approach has been met with widespread acclaim, with reviewers praising the show for empowering these often-overlooked figures and sparking conversations about female agency and historical narratives.

Presentism and Historical Accuracy

While Six has been widely praised, some critics have raised concerns about its historical accuracy. The show’s tendency to judge the past through the lens of the present, known as presentism, has sparked debate. For instance, the queens’ modern slang and pop culture references might jar some viewers seeking a more traditional historical portrayal.

However, many argue that Six’s goal is not to present a historical documentary but rather to use a revisionist lens to empower women and challenge traditional narratives. The show’s creators have acknowledged this, stating that their intention is not to erase history but to spark curiosity and encourage audiences to learn more about the lives of these fascinating women.

Music

One of Six’s greatest strengths is its infectious pop score. The music is a driving force behind the show’s energy and appeal, with each queen showcasing her unique vocal style and personality. From the anthemic “Ex-Wives” to the empowering “I Don’t Need Your Love,” the songs are both catchy and thought-provoking.

The show’s musical style is a perfect blend of contemporary pop and historical inspiration. The composers, Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, have created a sound that is both familiar and fresh, making the music instantly relatable to a wide audience. The result is a truly unforgettable listening experience.

• “Ex-Wives”:This high-energy opener introduces the six queens with a bang, setting the tone for the rest of the show.
• “No Way”:Catherine of Aragon’s powerful ballad challenges the traditional narrative of her life.
• “Don’t Lose Ur Head”:Anne Boleyn’s iconic pop anthem explores themes of ambition and betrayal.
• “Heart of Stone”:Jane Seymour’s heartfelt ballad showcases her vulnerability and resilience.
• “Get Down”:Anna of Cleves’ unexpected celebration of independence and wealth.
• “All You Wanna Do”:Katherine Howard’s raw and honest exploration of youth and innocence.
• “I Don’t Need Your Love”:Catherine Parr’s empowering anthem of self-sufficiency.
• “Six”:The show-stopping finale that unites the queens in a celebration of sisterhood.

These songs, along with the rest of the show’s music, have become anthems for a new generation of theater goers, inspiring audiences to embrace their own individuality and strength.

The music of Six is more than just entertainment; it’s a powerful tool for storytelling and social commentary. The show’s creators have successfully used music to challenge traditional narratives and create a truly unforgettable theatrical experience.

Awards

Six has garnered numerous awards and nominations, solidifying its status as a must-see musical. The show won three Lucille Lortel Awards in 2023, including Outstanding Musical, Outstanding Leading Performer in a Musical for Marla Mindelle, and Outstanding Costume Design by Alejo Vietti. Additionally, it received nominations for choreography and featured performer awards, highlighting its excellence in various aspects of theater.

Run Length and Schedule

Six is an ongoing hit on Broadway, with performances scheduled throughout the week. Typically, shows are 1 hour 20 minutes long and run from Tuesday to Sunday, with evening performances and matinees on weekends. The best times to watch are the weekend matinees, which are perfect for families looking to enjoy a lively musical together.

• Monday:
  No performances.
• Tuesday:
  7:00 PM – Evening Show
• Wednesday:
  2:00 PM – Matinee Show
  7:00 PM – Evening Show
• Thursday:
  7:00 PM – Evening Show
• Friday:
  7:00 PM – Evening Show
• Saturday:
  2:00 PM – Matinee Show
  8:00 PM – Evening Show
• Sunday:
  3:00 PM – Matinee Show
  7:00 PM – Evening Show

Dress Code

There is no strict dress code for attending Six, but it’s recommended to dress comfortably and stylishly. Many theatergoers opt for smart casual attire to match the vibrant and energetic atmosphere of the show.

Food and Beverage Options

The Richard Rodgers Theatre offers a variety of concessions, including snacks and beverages, for you to enjoy during the show. Nearby, there are several dining options to explore before or after the performance. Popular choices include Sardi’s, famous for its Broadway-themed decor, and Carmine’s, which offers hearty Italian meals perfect for sharing.