★★★★★
It’s simply one of a kind, no category!
SIX the Musical has blasted into Melbourne with an outstanding cast of queens rocking the roof off the Comedy Theatre. In a display of entertainment like no other, audiences will feel a surge of power, inspiration, sisterhood and beauty in this spectacular array of sparkle and colour, brought to life by six phenomenal vocal performances.
Transforming the six wives of King Henry VIII into blinging pop icons, SIX is a concert-style production that empowers its audience as each queen reclaims her story, challenging the others to prove who endured the toughest fate. Divorced. Beheaded. Died. Divorced. Beheaded. Survived.
Beneath its infectious pop anthems and concert-style spectacle, SIX shines a light on the limited rights and freedoms afforded to women in Tudor England. In reclaiming the voices of Henry VIII’s six wives, the musical delivers a joyous, empowering and thoroughly electrifying theatrical experience.
This is the third season of SIX to tour Melbourne, with each production showcasing a powerhouse cast that brings something extraordinary. The original 2020 company featured the brilliantly talented Chloe Zuel, Kala Gare, Loren Hunter, Kiana Daniele, Courtney Monsma, Vidya Makan, Ella Burns, Karis Oka and Shannen Alyce Quan. The highly successful troupe went on to lead productions including Hamilton, My Brilliant Career, Beetlejuice, Wicked, Frozen, & Juliet.
Returning in 2024 and back by popular demand, Loren Hunter was joined by fellow queens Kimberley Hodgson, Deirdre Khoo, Zelia Rose Kitoko, Chelsea Dawson, and Giorgia Kennedy, with Chiara Assetta, Gabriella Boumford, Thalia Smith and Cristina D’Agostino completing the company as swings and creative covers. The cast brought phenomenal strength and stand-out stardom, going on to shine in The Rocky Horror Show, Mary Poppins, Aladdin, Mamma Mia! and Mackenzie.
SIX has become something of a proving ground for Australian musical theatre talent. With two previous casts producing performers who have gone on to lead many of the country’s biggest productions, anticipation was high for the 2026 queens.
As we stepped onto the purple carpet, we were excited to meet the new queens: Sarah Murr as Catherine of Aragon, Mia Paris Scalise as Anne Boleyn, Cara Bessey as Jane Seymour, Kadesa Honeyhill as Anna of Cleves, Angela Brischetto as Katherine Howard and Lorinda May Merrypor as Catherine Parr.
These 2026 queens rise magnificently to the occasion, delivering six distinct performances that are every bit as commanding, charismatic and vocally thrilling as those that came before them.
Leading the cast is Sarah Murr, who gives a stunning performance, combining commanding stage presence with exceptional vocal talent. Mia Paris Scalise’s impeccable comedic timing is a crowd favourite, and she simply shines.
Cara Bessey brings the sweetest vocals with exceptionally powerful moments. Kadesa Honeyhill is definitely a charmer, adding flair, style and a cheeky sense of class.
Angela Brischetto knows how to bring delightful musical moments whilst demonstrating dynamics in her character. Lorinda May Merrypor brings purpose to her role with an unforgettable portrayal displaying deep emotional truth.
Supporting the queens is also the brilliant on-stage band known as The Ladies in Waiting. They include music director Claire Healy on keys, assistant music director Heidi Maguire, also on keys, Kathryn Stammers on drums, Danielle Colligan on guitar and Matilda Yang on bass.
Together they add a mixture of R&B and electric flavour to the rock-pop concert intensity and confident driving delivery. There is an attitude in this production unlike any other, where passion and vibrancy collide with a powerful blast of wondrous golden glitter.
Gabriella Slade’s costumes are very much part of the force and power, with vibrance and girl group glamour. Each queen reflects a unique look and is decorated with sequins from head to toe. Tim Deiling’s lighting design pops every moment, enhancing silhouettes, storytelling and emotions in this shimmery, shiny, extremely exciting atmosphere where everything seems to sparkle.
Each song is driven by strong choreography by Carrie-Anne Ingrouille that allows the performers to truly celebrate their characters.
More than a dazzling pop concert, SIX is a celebration of identity, resilience and reclaiming the narrative. By giving each queen the chance to tell her own story, the musical transforms familiar historical figures into complex, compelling women whose experiences continue to inspire today.
Whether you come for the history, the music or the spectacle, this is an unmissable night at the theatre. Gather your friends and prepare to leave the Comedy Theatre feeling every bit as empowered as the six Queens themselves.
SIX the Musical runs to 4 October at the Comedy Theatre, Melbourne before heading to Sydney and Brisbane.
See full dates below.
Tickets: https://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=SIXMUS26
Website: https://sixthemusical.com.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/sixthemusicalau
Photo credits: James D. Morgan
2026 / 2027 Australian Tour Dates:
Melbourne 24 July – 4 October, Comedy Theatre Tickets
Sydney 9 October – 22 November, Theatre Royal Tickets
Brisbane 2 – 31 January 2027, Playhouse Theatre, QPAC Tickets
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