SIX the Musical continues to prove why it has become one of the defining musical theatre successes of the past decade. Returning to Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre for a third season, the award-winning global sensation has lost none of its irresistible energy, delivering eighty minutes of captivating entertainment that earned a well-deserved standing ovation.
Written by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, SIX ingeniously transforms the six wives of Henry VIII into contemporary pop superstars, each reclaiming her own story after centuries of being defined by the infamous Tudor king.
History becomes a concert, heartbreak becomes empowerment and the familiar tale is reimagined through a soundtrack that is as infectious as it is clever. It remains one of the freshest concepts to emerge in modern musical theatre, and its appeal shows no sign of fading.
Under the spirited direction of Australian Associate Director Sharon Millerchip, this outstanding new Australian cast embraces the show’s infectious confidence while bringing their own distinctive personalities to these iconic queens.
Sarah Murr commands the stage as Catherine of Aragon, combining regal authority with powerhouse vocals that immediately establish the show’s extraordinary standard. Making an impressive professional musical theatre debut, Mia Paris Scalise is a delightfully mischievous Anne Boleyn, displaying effortless charisma, sharp comic timing and a stage presence that belies her newcomer status.
Cara Bessey delivers one of the evening’s emotional highlights as Jane Seymour, finding genuine warmth and vulnerability beneath the pop spectacle. Her beautifully controlled performance provides a touching counterpoint to the show’s exuberant energy. Kadesa Honeyhill revels in the swagger and self-assurance of Anna of Cleves, earning some of the night’s biggest cheers with an effortlessly commanding performance.
Angela Brischetto gives Katherine Howard a dazzling blend of confidence and complexity, ensuring the character’s emotional journey resonates long after her show-stopping number concludes. Completing the line-up, Lorinda May Merrypor is a compelling Catherine Parr, bringing poise, intelligence and soaring vocals to the musical’s stirring finale.
One of SIX‘s greatest strengths is the consistency of its ensemble. Every performer is given moments to shine, yet together they function as a remarkably cohesive company whose chemistry never falters. Their playful interactions and polished harmonies create an atmosphere that feels as much arena concert as theatrical performance.
Musical Director Claire Healy leads an outstanding band, the Ladies in Waiting with precision and flair. Kathryn Stammers on drums, Danielle Colligan on guitar and Matilda Yang on bass perform with infectious enthusiasm, driving the production with the energy of a live pop concert. Their musicianship is integral to the show’s pulse, providing an electrifying foundation for every number.
Visually, SIX remains a feast for the senses. Emma Bailey’s striking concert-inspired set provides the perfect backdrop for the action, while Gabriella Slade’s instantly recognisable costumes remain a defining visual signature of the production, cleverly blending Tudor influences with contemporary pop aesthetics.
Tim Deiling’s dynamic lighting transforms the stage into a concert arena, while Paul Gatehouse’s crisp sound design ensures every lyric lands with clarity. Carrie-Anne Ingrouille’s choreography is executed with remarkable precision, balancing athleticism, humour and personality in every movement.
Part of SIX‘s enduring appeal lies in its ability to welcome audiences of every generation. Whether you’re a devoted musical theatre enthusiast, a history buff or discovering the show for the first time, its wit, infectious score and uplifting spirit make for an immensely rewarding theatrical experience. Beneath the dazzling costumes and driving pop anthems lies a thoughtful reminder that these women were far more than historical footnotes.
Few modern musicals have enjoyed the global impact of SIX. Its bold concept, infectious score and contemporary retelling of history have attracted a devoted international following, and this latest Melbourne season demonstrates exactly why.
SIX the Musical
Comedy Theatre, 240 Exhibition Street, Melbourne
Performance: Wednesday 29 July 2026
Season continues to 4 October 2026
Bookings: www.ticketek.com.au
Following the Melbourne season, SIX the Musical will play the Theatre Royal Sydney from 9 October 2026 and QPAC’s Playhouse Theatre in Brisbane from 2 January 2027. For more information, visit: www.sixthemusical.com.au for details.
Images: The Company of SIX the Musical – photos by James D. Morgan (Getty Images)