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Six the Musical is a global sensation that has taken the theater world by storm.
Six The Musical tells the story of Henry VIII’s six wives, who take to the stage to tell their tales in an uplifting pop concert-style performance. The musical has won numerous awards, including the Tony Award for Best Original Score and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Musical.
The Six the Musical tour is crisscrossing North America throughout 2023-2024, currently stopping in Costa Mesa, California, at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts (through June 25, 2023). The tour brings an incredible high-energy performance as the six wives of Henry VIII take to the stage to reclaim their identities and celebrate 21st-century girl power.
With its catchy pop tunes, witty lyrics, and powerful performances, Six the Musical is a must-see for theater fans. It would even make for an excellent first night out at the theatre for music loving fans. The energy of the opening night audience at Segerstrom Center for the Arts was so on fire clapping until their hands grew weary and voices raw from all the cheers. I doubt even Taylor Swift could have asked for a more fabulous audience.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a fun night out, the Six the Musical tour is sure to deliver an unforgettable experience.
Meet the Queens of Six the Musical
Kelly Denice Taylor (Alternate) as Catherine of Aragon
Kelly Denice Taylor comes from the Broadway cast of Six the Musical where she made her Broadway debut in July 2022 as an alternate for Jane Seymour. Aside from her turn on Broadway, Kelly is a favorite from the Disney family where she might be best known as a member of Walt Disney Records’ a cappella singing sensation ‘DCappella‘. She has also made a variety of appearances on Disney+, Disney Channel, ABC, and Disney Cruise Line.
Taylor’s performance in the role of Catherine of Aragon was commanding and moving. You would never have known she was an alternate but for the announcement prior to the show. Her stage presence brings the first of Henry’s Queens to life in a way that is both captivating and moving. She is the perfect combination of comedic and dramatic and heartbreaking.
Erin Ramirez (Alternate) as Anne Boleyn
Alternate Erin Ramirez‘ career has been on the rise in recent years, including a tour of Les Misérables as the Eponine understudy. Her work in Six has solidified her status as a rising star in the theatre world. Her talent and dedication to her craft are evident in every minute of her performance on stage, and she is sure to continue making waves in the industry.
Erin Ramirez’ performance as Anne Boleyn is a standout in Six the Musical, the Aragon Tour. The character of Anne Boleyn is a complex one, and Ramirez brings nuance and depth to the role. Her powerful voice and commanding stage presence make her a natural fit for the part, and the audience at opening night at Segerstrom Center for the Arts was in awe.
Natalie Paris as Jane Seymour
Natalie Paris is a British actress and singer who portrays the role of Jane Seymour in Six the Musical. She trained at the Royal Academy of Music in London and has appeared in several West End productions, including Les Misérables and Sunday in the Park with George. In addition to her work on stage, Paris has also released music as a solo artist.
Paris’ conveys great emotional depth and powerful vocals in her rendition of “Heart of Stone,” Jane Seymour’s solo song as she did in the studio cast recording. Paris also does a fabulous job conveying the character’s vulnerability and strength.
Olivia Donalson as Anne of Cleves
Before landing her principal debut as Anne of Cleves in Six the Musical, Olivia Donalson was featured on Broadway and the First National Tour of Aladdin as the Fortune Teller. Other shows on her resume include A Chorus Line, The Little Mermaid, and Hairspray.
As Anne of Cleves, Donalson was an absolute fan favorite on opening night at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. In the musical, Anne is portrayed as a quirky, lovable character who is proud of her German heritage. Donalson brings Anne to life with her infectious energy and comedic timing, while also showcasing her powerful vocals in songs like “Get Down.”
Her performance is truly show-stopping.
Courtney Mack as Katherine Howard
Courtney Mack previously served as an alternate in the Broadway production of Six the Musical, covering the roles of Boleyn, Howard, and Parr, where she was a fan favorite on Broadway due to her ability to convey both the vulnerability and strength of the character.
Katherine Howard, Henry the VIII’s fifth wife, was known for her beauty and charm, but she was also criticized for her lack of education and political savvy. She was only in her early twenties when she was executed, and her tragic story has fascinated historians and writers for centuries.
Mack’s song, “All You Wanna Do”, benefits from a repeated listening to catch all the nuances and lyrical stories. However, when attending a live show you don’t necessarily have the benefit of being able to click pause or replay. So it is a credit to Courtney Mack that her performance is so full of nuance and feeling that even a first timer who does not know the music will have to be drawn in by the powerful performance Mack delivers.
Gabriella Carrillo as Catherine Parr
Born and raised in the Chicago suburbs, Gabriella Carrillo is a first-generation Mexican American. She has spoken openly about the challenges she faced as a young performer, including the lack of representation and opportunities for Latinx actors. Despite these obstacles, Carrillo has persevered and is now making a name for herself as one of the most talented performers of her generation.
Her performance of Catherine Parr is hugely moving and grounding, and her performance of the song “I Don’t Need Your Love” is a highlight of the show.
Creative Team of Six the Musical
In addition to the talented cast, SIX the Musical has an equally impressive creative team behind the scenes. The musical was written by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, who also co-directed the original production. The show’s choreography is by Carrie-Anne Ingrouille, with costumes by Gabriella Slade, lighting design by Tim Deiling, and sound design by Paul Gatehouse.
The creative team’s vision for SIX the Musical is to create a pop concert-style experience that is both entertaining and empowering. The show’s music is a blend of contemporary pop and historical references, with lyrics that tell the stories of the six wives from their own perspectives.
Overall, SIX the Musical is a must-see production that offers a fresh and exciting take on history. With a talented cast and creative team, the show is sure to leave audiences feeling inspired and empowered.
What Age is Six the Musical Appropriate For?
Six the Musical is recommended for ages 10 and up. There are mild language, sexual innuendos, and adult situations.
See The Aragon Tour of Six the Musical
The Aragon Tour of Six the Musical with these amazing Queens has three more stops:
- June 27-July 9, 2023: Six the Musical at San Diego Civic Theatre (San Diego, CA)
- July 12-July 23, 2023: Six the Musical at The Paramount Theatre (Seattle, WA)
- July 25-July 30, 2023: Six the Musical at Keller Auditorium (Portland, OR)
Shop Six The Musical
More Theatre Reviews to Read
- Frozen Makes its Magical Orange County Debut (2023)
- Disney Princess Concert is a Joyous Experience! (2022)
- Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat – 2023 Review
- Anastasia the Musical is Sensational at The Pantages Theatre!
- Matthew Bourne’s CINDERELLA Is Sheer Perfection!
My cousin saw this at the Pantages in Hollywood and loved it! Although she didn’t really explain what it was about. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the musical! It’s a very thorough and well-written review.