Six Teen Edition
Information
- Date
- 22nd February 2025
- Society
- Exmouth Youth Theatre
- Venue
- Exmouth Community College
- Type of Production
- Musical
- Director
- Tracey Hamilton
- Musical Director
- Alison Dale
- Choreographer
- Tracey Hamilton
- Written By
- Toby Marlow & Lucy Moss
Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived. From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the stage to transform centuries of heartbreak into a high-energy celebration of girl power, rewriting history with a modern twist!
The performance I attended was brought to life by The Hampton Court Cast.
Catherine of Aragon commanded the stage with strength, poise, and confidence, clearly establishing a presence that could not be dismissed. The performance of ‘No Way’ radiated power and control, with every line delivered with precision and conviction. Beyond the music, resilience and authority were personified, standing as a steady force among the queens. The interactions, particularly with Anne Boleyn, added depth to the performance, resulting in a compelling and confident portrayal.
Anne Boleyn exuded playful energy and cheek, capturing a rebellious spirit and boldness while fully embracing a reputation as a troublemaker. A perfect blend of sarcasm and sass emerged throughout the show, especially during the performance of ‘Don’t Lose Ur Head,’ where impressive comedic timing and agile, rapid-fire rhythmic sections conveyed confidence. Balancing humour with an underlying sense of tragedy added depth to the character, resulting in a captivating mix of fun, sharp wit, and emotional complexity.
Jane Seymour’s performance was a truly moving experience, capturing emotional vulnerability and deep love attributes often associated with the queen remembered as ‘the only one Henry truly loved.’ The performance of ‘Heart of Stone’ showcased a stunning voice, with every note filled with love and sacrifice. The audience was captivated by the raw emotion in every line, and the portrayal of a peacemaker among the queens added depth and nuance. Overall, the performance was delivered with skill and heartfelt sincerity.
Anne of Cleves radiated confidence and independence, transforming a history of dismissal into a celebration of self-assurance and opulence. Once judged by conventional standards, the queen redefined her narrative, embracing a life of luxury post-divorce and turning past adversity into a symbol of resilience and power. ‘Get Down’ exploded onto the stage as a self-love anthem, its rhythmic intensity and dance-heavy performance demanding unwavering stamina. Every beat carried a commanding presence, blending bold strength with subtle humour. The energy and precision behind each movement left a lasting impression of confidence and poise.
Katherine Howard’s portrayal was both captivating and heartbreaking, capturing the charm and tragedy of Henry’s fifth wife, who was executed at a young age. Initially flirtatious and playful, the performance gradually peeled back the layers of a darker, more painful reality. ‘All You Wanna Do’ had an upbeat, energetic tone, drawing the audience into a world of attention and admiration. The performance masterfully balanced allure with vulnerability, making the character’s story deeply impactful.
Catherine Parr’s portrayal radiated strength and wisdom, capturing the essence of Henry’s sixth and final wife, who not only survived him but also carved out a unique path. In ‘I Don’t Need Your Love,’ the emotional depth was striking, emphasizing the decision to prioritize one’s own identity over the shadow of a man’s legacy. The balance of vulnerability and empowerment was achieved with precision, with each note carrying a sense of both defiance and grace. The performance stood as a testament to resilience, offering a powerful reminder of the importance of self-worth and independence.
Each queen brought something special to the stage, and together, they created a show full of heart, depth, and unforgettable moments. The energy was electric, with each performer delivering a dynamic presence that captivated the audience. Amazing dance routines added an exciting edge, while the wonderful voices of the cast filled the space with power and emotion. The seamless combination of strong choreography, vocal talent, and emotional expression made the show both engaging and memorable.
The staging was minimal yet flawlessly executed, allowing the performances to shine. The lighting and sound were of the highest professional standard, enhancing every moment with precision. The costumes were stunning, each carefully designed to reflect the individuality of each queen, making them instantly recognizable. The choreography was dynamic, energetic, and executed with precision, keeping the audience captivated from start to finish. Every element worked in perfect harmony, bringing the story to life in a vibrant and captivating way.
A huge congratulations to each and every one of you - you were absolutely incredible! We had the most amazing time and truly enjoyed every moment. Thank you so much for inviting us; we genuinely appreciated it and had a wonderful time with you all!
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