A musical. . . A pop show. . . A celebration of female empowerment. Whatever you call it, ‘SIX’ is a thrilling theatrical experience, and one unlike any other.
By now, ‘SIX’ has a huge following globally, and it’s not difficult to see why.
This 80-minute firecracker of a production is so much fun – it’s easy to digest, has a short but sweet soundtrack of total bangers, and a talented cast to bring it all to life.
If you’re more of a pop music lover than a musical theatre nut, ‘SIX’ is definitely the show for you. There’s a real sweet-spot of a balance between the two, providing audiences with narrative context and enough information about each character, only before it bursts into toe-tapping tunes which belong on radio.
Interactions with the crowd are reminiscent of pop girls in arenas, bringing the audience in on the show a lot more than your average night at the theatre and totally shattering the fourth wall which usually exists in this space.
Image © James D Morgan
My favourites from the night are Deirdre Khoo as Anne Boleyn, and Zelia Rose Kitoko as Anna Of Cleves. Deirdre’s song ‘Don’t Lose Ur Head’ is perfectly quirky and sassy, and Zelia Rose’s track is like a fusion of ‘Fancy’ by Charli xcx and Iggy Azalea, and ‘Worth It’ by Fifth Harmony. . . Making it a complete ear worm which is delivered with a delicious helping of attitude.
While I had my favourites, there’s no denying all six of these performers are absolutely fantastic. Their on-stage chemistry as a group makes all the difference – sharp quips shared between them as they fight for their place in the band are hilarious, natural and biting. . . Prompting visceral audience responses like ‘oooooooh’. . . ‘awwwww’. . . And of course, shrieks of laughter.
In the current political climate, a show like ‘SIX’, which sees women coming together to make something beautiful from their trauma, feels incredibly necessary and appreciated. While it’s obviously historical parody to the most camp degree, its messaging is grounded in real female camaraderie and the positive impact that can have when harnessed.
‘SIX’ is equal parts fun, silly, and important. With catchy songs and a slick, considered script, it’s an 80-minute joyride through herstory and female power.
