Review: SIX, Vaudeville Theatre - January 2023
Photo credit: Pamela Raith
Since it's 2017 premiere at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, it's fair to say that Six has rapidly grown into a global phenomenon. With more productions out there than we can keep count of (even on cruise ships!), a professional recording of the musical to be released in the near future and a dedicated fandom - or should we say "Queendom" filling seats for sold out performances all over the place.
And Besties, five years on, it's not difficult to see why. The show continues to go from strength to strength, and as London's production welcomes brand new Queens to the Vaudeville Theatre, it's still as irreverent, explosive and energetic as it ever has been!
If you're new to Six, we've got you covered. The wives of Henry VIII have gathered to hold a competition to declare once and for all which of them had it worst with their husband. Each of them sings a song or two about their experience in an attempt to prove their experience was the most traumatic. But over the course of 80 minutes, the group discover that more than just their ex unites them.
The way this show tells its story is its major selling point. Well, that and the insanely talented performers that take the stage, but we'll be sure to get to them! Each song is full of witty and creative lyrics, that you're bound to find something new in upon return visits. ("Ignore the fear and you'll be fine! We'll turn this vier into a nine, So just ja and don't say nein" for example). So not only are the songs incredibly catchy, they're also educational. What duo Marlow and Moss have achieved is actually quite remarkable and helps to make history all the more accessible for new generations in a similar way Horrible Histories or Hamilton has done.
When it comes to those on the stage though, the vocals are wonderful. In a team of six, it could be very easy to stand out, but each performer gels perfectly and fills their role in the group well. Whether its Katherine Howard's fragile strength (here portrayed by Koko Basigara), Jane Seymour's depth of emotion from Claudia Kariuki or Anne Boleyn's relentless energy in Baylie Carson, each cast member has the time of their life on stage and it is never not an absolute joy to watch. We found an especial highlight in Roxanne Couch's Catherine Parr; Besties, her ‘I Don't Need Your Love’ is certainly one to look forward to!
So of course, Six is one of those musicals that we still recommend you see for the first time, or even for the sixth!
***** Five stars
Reviewed by: Callum Wallace
Six is currently booking in the West End until 29 October 2023, with tickets available here.
