Six Teen Edition

‘Six’ Teen Edition

Hoylake & West Kirby Theatre Group

9/5/25

 

 

Written by Tony Marlowe and Lucy Moss and Directed by Hannah Broadbere ‘Six’ Teen Edition is a modern musical retelling of the lives of the six wives of Henry VIII presented as a pop concert, as the Queens take turns singing and telling their stories to see who suffered the most due to Henry and should, therefore, become the popular group's lead singer.

Before the Queens take to the stage we are treated to an exclusive performance from ‘Prefix’ Hoylake & West Kirby Theatre Groups youth. What a performance it was, exciting and full of energy, song highlights, ‘Stick it to the Man’ ‘Seasons of Love’ and the rousing ‘Don’t stop believing’. We were primed for the powerful arrival of the ‘Six’ Queens with ‘Ex Wives’ with a full essemle cast let the competition begin.

We all know the phrase ‘Divorced, Beheaded, Died, Divorced, Beheaded and Survived relating to each of Henry’s wives, lets meet them.

Catherine of Aragon (Keysha) Henry’s first wife, a staunch Catholic, who refused to divorce.  She sings ‘No Way' telling him she has been faithful, and still loves him, despite him moving in with Anne Boleyn. 

Anne Boleyn (Emily Hill) their marriage ultimately causes the break away from the Catholic Church. Anne fails to give him a son, neglecting her Henry enjoys the company of the women of the court Anne reciprocates engaging in many affairs She sings’ Don’t Lose UR Head’, which is ultimately her fate.

Jane Seymour (Phoebe Cheffings) who history says Jane is the only wife he truly loved. she bore him a son. Tragically she died while delivering the child. She sings ‘Heart of Stone’, which tells of her love and devotion no matter what Henry put her through.

Anna of Cleves (Brooke McHugh) was chosen by Henry when he saw her picture from the acclaimed "Haus of Holbein", where it was said any women will look beautiful. However, their union is ultimately ill-fated as he decides to annul their marriage after she arrives in England, due to her supposed non-resemblance to her portrait. Anna pretends to complain about how she is "forced" to live in a beautiful palace in Richmond as a result of the annulment and boasts about her riches, her song ‘Get Down’ says she has everything she wishes.

Katherine Howard (Freya Owen) apparently very beautiful and sought by many men. She brags about her attractiveness; having had many suitors. however, she soon realises the emotional trauma and abuse she faced in these relationships and how they ultimately led to her beheading. Her song “All You Wanna Do" shows her regret.

Catherine Parr (Sasha Green) is the wife who survived, bringing is children closer to him before his death. She sings ‘I Don’t Need Your Love’ about a lover she had to abandon for Henry and to Henry who basically used her as a caretaker. Catherine attempts to put a stop to the arguments pointing out how the contest defines them solely by their connections to Henry rather than their individual accomplishments.

The six principal cast of extremely talented young performers brought life to the Queens in an exciting captivating way. Their individual performances brought out the unique characteristics of the different Queens.There are many standout aspects to "Six " including its catchy and energetic score, which incorporates elements of pop and rock music. The songs are not only entertaining but also serve to highlight the strength and individuality of each of the six queens. Credit to the Musical Direction from Jeff Broadbere, the band “Ladies in waiting”, Jeff, Dave, Rory and Sam who were on stage throughout the performance. And of course, the brilliant choreography by the amazing Simon Brock, ably assisted by Megan Clarke and Amy Clewlow it was simply astonishing. Beathtaking costumes/hair/makeup  form the creative team Ami Clewlow, Hannah Broadbere, Claire Youd, Skelley Cheffings, Orlaith Cheffings, Carol Nickson and Eden Beggs.  Imaginative direction from Hannah Broadbere gave the show its sense of freedom and excitement, well done Hannah. This production had two principal Queen casts, one for Thursday & Saturday Night: Aragon, Rachel Thomas, Boleyn, Alice Grievson, Seymour, Sienna Sutcliffe, Cleaves, Neve Piercy, Howard, Sophie Mulryan and Parr, Alex Kinnear, another for the Friday & Saturday Matinee, I attended on the Friday evening.  All were sold out, which is a credit to all the cast and production team, Lighting Jamie Moran, Sound Elliot Tutt and of course stage crew.  Congratulations to you all.

Theatre doesn't happen without an audience. Theatre doesn't happen without a community. This was an exceptional production, a stunning visual and vocal treat, a two-minute standing ovation from an appreciative audience said it all.

What a show! what a team ! everyone on that stage was amazing. Such committment from this young ambitious society. Thank you for my invitation, looking forward to Bonnie & Clyde this September.

 

Joanne Rymer

NODA

District 4

 

 

 

 

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