Reviewed by Regan Baker
Six the Musical at the Playhouse Theatre, QPAC, is an exhilarating, high-energy celebration of female empowerment, history, and music that will leave you on your feet, clapping, singing, and cheering. This production, featuring an immensely talented cast of queens and an all-female band, is a vibrant and unforgettable experience, one that fully immerses audiences in its infectious energy and captivating storytelling.
Reprising her role from the original Australian cast, Chelsea Dawson absolutely kills it as Katherine Howard. With her compelling stage presence and razor-sharp vocals, Dawson brings a fiery intensity to the tragic young queen’s story. Her connection to the audience is undeniable, drawing you in with every note. She doesn’t just perform—she becomes Katherine Howard, and the result is a powerful, emotional performance that showcases Dawson’s depth as a performer.
Kimberley Hodgson, as Catherine of Aragon, brings the house down with her breathtaking voice. From the moment she steps on stage, her vocal range and power are evident, filling the theatre with rich, resonant tones. Hodgson portrays Catherine with such grace and dignity, channelling the queen’s fierce strength and unwavering faith. Her performance is an emotional rollercoaster, from defiance to heartbreak, and her vocal abilities alone make her a standout in the show.
Deirdre Khoo breathes new life into the role of Anne Boleyn with a delightful blend of wit and charm. Khoo’s version of Anne is fresh, lively, and full of cheeky energy. Her sharp wit and confident stage presence infuse the character with a new spark, making Anne one of the most entertaining queens of the night. The audience couldn’t get enough of her quirky energy, and her comedic timing was spot-on, offering a delightful contrast to some of the more serious moments in the show.
Loren Hunter, another original cast member, continues to impress with her stunning portrayal of Jane Seymour. Hunter’s voice is simply incredible, her vocal range soaring through the emotional highs and lows of Jane’s story. She handles the character’s tender moments with sincerity and grace, offering a powerful contrast to the more upbeat queens. Her voice is rich and clear, and every note resonates deeply with the audience. It’s clear that Hunter’s vocal ability and stage presence continue to leave a lasting impression.
Giorgia Kennedy as Catherine Parr brings an energetic and powerful presence to the stage. Kennedy owns every moment, delivering a performance full of strength, poise, and captivating vocal power. She commands attention from the very first note, and her dynamic performance shines throughout the show, leaving the audience spellbound with her performance. Kennedy’s Catherine Parr is both regal and vibrant, striking a perfect balance that makes her a truly memorable part of the ensemble.
One of the most impressive aspects of this production is Chiara Assetta, who took over the role of Anne of Cleves on opening night. Replacing Zelia Rose Kitoko, Assetta’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary. As an understudy, she rose to the challenge with ease, commanding the stage with an impressive vocal range and presence. You’d never have known she was stepping in at the last minute—her confidence, energy, and talent were clear as she delivered a flawless performance. The audience was left cheering, captivated by her powerful voice and captivating performance.
The musical’s infectious energy is further amplified by the amazing all-female band, whose talent adds a layer of excitement and authenticity to the show. Their incredible musicianship ensures that every song hits hard, with the rhythm section and solos driving the pulse of the performance. Each note feels alive and electric, creating a powerful synergy between the cast and the band.
Nigel Shaw’s costuming is nothing short of spectacular, with each queen’s outfit reflecting both their individual character and the musical’s modern aesthetic. The bold, glittering costumes are designed with such detail and flair that they become almost as iconic as the performances themselves. The vivid colours and intricate designs bring the show’s characters to life in a way that enhances their stories and presence on stage.
The lighting design by Jason Fripp further elevates the production, with vibrant, fun-coloured party lighting that adds to the energetic atmosphere of the show. The dynamic lighting shifts perfectly with the musical’s fast pace and high-energy numbers, creating a sense of excitement and celebration that immerses the audience completely.
Six the Musical is a truly incredible show, one that should not be missed. The powerhouse performances, outstanding vocal abilities, and thrilling live band make for an unforgettable experience. That said, at only 80 minutes long, the ticket pricing may feel a bit steep, especially when compared to the cost of a full-length musical like Wicked (which recently wrapped its run at QPAC) for the same price or even less. While Six is undeniably fun and packed with talent, the brief runtime might leave some wishing for just a bit more content, especially given the price point.
Overall, however, Six the Musical is a must-see for any theatre lover. The talent on display, both on stage and behind the scenes, is extraordinary, and the experience is one that will leave you buzzing with excitement long after the curtain falls. Whether you’re a fan of the show or experiencing it for the first time, this production will undoubtedly leave you with a smile on your face and an earworm of its catchy tunes in your head.
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