A Royal Take on Pop Music
Six, the “pop concert” musical about the six wives of Henry VIII, has taken Broadway by storm. It’s a phenomenon, a sensation, a cultural moment. But does the hype surrounding this Tudor-era girl-power anthem actually live up to the expectation? The answer, unsurprisingly, is complex. The show is undeniably catchy, energetic, and cleverly constructed, but whether it’s *worth* the hype depends entirely on your personal preferences and expectations.
The Music: Catchy and Clever, But…
Let’s be honest, the music is the star of the show. Each queen gets her own distinct pop-infused anthem, showcasing a unique personality and musical style. From the sassy, Beyoncé-esque energy of Catherine of Aragon to the emotionally raw balladry of Jane Seymour, the songwriting is incredibly strong. The songs are undeniably catchy, and you’ll find yourself humming them long after the curtain falls. However, the relentless pop energy can be overwhelming for some. The constant high-energy performance, while impressive, can feel a little repetitive after a while, particularly for those who prefer a more varied or nuanced musical landscape.
The Performances: A High-Energy, Character-Driven Show
The cast is consistently phenomenal. The actors are not only vocally impressive but also embody their respective queens with incredible energy and charisma. Each queen’s portrayal is distinct and well-developed, despite the relatively short amount of time devoted to each individual backstory. The choreography is sharp, energetic, and perfectly complements the music and narrative, emphasizing the queens’ personalities and rivalries. The strong performances are arguably the biggest strength of the show, lifting it beyond a simple pop concert into a truly engaging theatrical experience.
The Story: A Feminist Twist on History
Six reimagines the history of Henry VIII’s wives through a distinctly feminist lens. The show challenges traditional narratives, presenting these women not as victims but as powerful individuals who made their own choices, albeit within the constraints of their historical context. This fresh perspective is refreshing and resonates with modern audiences, offering a powerful message of female empowerment. However, the historical accuracy is, understandably, loose. This is a pop concert, not a history lesson, and the liberties taken with historical details may bother some viewers who seek a more rigorous depiction of Tudor England.
The Set and Staging: Minimalist but Effective
The staging is impressively minimal. The set design is clever and effective, transforming the stage into various settings with minimal props and a great deal of lighting and projected imagery. This simplicity allows the focus to remain firmly on the performances and the music. The costumes are vibrant and stylish, reflecting the pop-star personas of the queens. However, the minimalist approach isn’t for everyone. Some viewers might prefer a more visually opulent production, particularly given the lavish lifestyle associated with royalty.
The Overall Experience: A Fun Night Out, But Not for Everyone
Six is a fun, high-energy, and undeniably catchy show. The performances are excellent, the music is infectious, and the feminist message is empowering. However, its relentless pop energy, minimal staging, and loose historical accuracy may not appeal to all audiences. If you’re a fan of pop music and are looking for an energetic and empowering night out, Six is definitely worth checking out. But if you prefer more complex plots, nuanced musical scores, or historically accurate representations, you might find the experience somewhat shallow or even unsatisfying. Ultimately, whether it’s “worth the hype” is a subjective judgment call.
Beyond the Hype: A Lasting Impact?
Regardless of individual opinions, Six’s impact on the Broadway landscape is undeniable. Its innovative approach to historical storytelling, its clever use of pop music, and its empowering message have resonated with a broad audience. The show has garnered numerous awards and accolades, and its success has undoubtedly paved the way for more unconventional and genre-bending musicals. Whether its popularity will endure in the long term remains to be seen, but its significant contribution to the Broadway canon is already apparent. Read also about six the musical Broadway reviews.
