By Joanie Cox-Henry
Photo by Joan Marcus
Six the Musical cleverly makes history... her-story by ingeniously reimagining the wives of King Henry VIII as modern-day pop divas. The doomed dynasty of queens took the stage at Kravis Center for a spectacular opening night performance on March 26, 2024. From the initial number's intensely high energy, bright lights, and EDM beats, you immediately recognize this is not your typical musical—it's a dance party and a celebration that has been more than 477 years in the making.
While the king is alluded to but never actually makes an appearance, it's clear Six the Musical is all about empowering women and providing six perspectives that time had overlooked. The entire cast, including the “Ladies in Waiting" band onstage, is comprised of women, and the talent is overflowing. The wives' tales are equal parts magic and tragic as they belt out their "herspectives" on what happened to each of them.
Gerianne Perez brings Catherine of Aragon of Aragon to life with edge and grace while Zan Berube ignites with plenty of comic relief and panache as the sassy, bedazzled Anne Boleyn. Amina Faye powerfully portrays Jane Seymour and her painful account of passing away just 12 days after giving birth to Henry's sole male heir. Aline Mayagoitia's performance as Katherine Howard is another enchanting aspect of the show. Howard was charged with adultery, declared guilty and eventually lost her head. Terica Marie is a breathtaking Anna of Cleves and Adriana Scalice inspires as Catherine Parr—Henry's lone surviving wife.
The Washington Post hails the show as "exactly the kind of energizing, inspirational illumination this town aches for!" The audience in West Palm Beach seemed to be as enamored with it as they clapped along to the perky pop numbers that rivaled the vibes of an electric Ariana Grande concert meets Pussycat Dolls at times.
It's impossible not to fall in love with the six very different wives of Henry VIII and develop an overwhelming sense of empathy as each of their stories unfolds.
The show is recommended for ages 10 and up but welcomes queens of all ages! This show is also 80 minutes of performance with no intermission.
While Henry VIII didn't seem to appreciate his six wives, you will definitely appreciate this sparkly cast and Six the Musical!
Six the Musical runs through Sunday at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach. For tickets and information, call 561-832-7469 or visit KravisCenter.org
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