SIX- Teen Edition

SIX Teen Edition
By Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss
Produced by: Barnstaple Young Generation
Performed at: The Venue
Directed by: Shannon Edwards
Choreographer: Lauren Tithecott
Musical Director: Naliah Ruhlemen
NODA Rep: Stephen Fudge

What a pleasure it was to be invited back for my second visit to The Venue, and once again I
was met with the warmest of welcomes and generous hospitality from Sue and Graham
along with many other members – a continuation of the kindness I was shown on my first
visit and something I greatly appreciate. This time I had the excitement of seeing my very
first performance of SIX Teen Edition, and what a treat it was.
It’s worth acknowledging from the outset that this is a reprise production by Barnstaple
Young Generation, following on from the show that deservedly won last year’s NODA award
for Best Youth Production – and I can see why. The energy, talent, and style on display
made for a fantastic evening and a truly memorable performance.
SIX Teen Edition is a specially adapted youth version of the smash-hit West End and
Broadway musical SIX. The show reimagines the six wives of Henry VIII as modern pop
Queens, competing through song to prove who suffered the most at the hands of their
infamous husband. What unfolds is a witty, vibrant, and empowering pop-concert-style
musical that blends history with sass, humour, and powerful vocal performances. Each
Queen gets their moment in the spotlight, sharing their story through a modern musical style
influenced by some of today’s biggest chart-topping artists.
It's a high-energy, fast-paced show with no interval, demanding stamina, precision, and
personality from its cast – and Barnstaple Young Generation rose to that challenge
magnificently.

Technical effects
The technical delivery of this show was excellent and helped create that authentic concert
feel. The lighting was vibrant, dynamic, and perfectly timed to each number, while the sound
balance was generally crisp and clear. I was informed after the show that there had been
some difficulties with the Queens’ earphones, meaning they couldn’t hear properly at times –
and yet I was so impressed by their professionalism that I didn’t notice the issue at all. The
cast handled it seamlessly, and the technical team resolved it quickly. The staging, though
simple, was highly effective in supporting the energy and flow of the performance.

Musical Director

Musical direction for this show was absolutely fantastic. SIX relies on tight harmonies and

strong solo vocals, and the cast delivered both with ease. The band was sharp and
energetic, never overpowering the singers but always driving the show with precision and
flair. This was a high-octane, vocally demanding production, and the musical direction
ensured every number landed with full impact.

Choreographer
The choreography throughout was slick, modern, and perfectly in keeping with the concert
style of the show. Each Queen had their own unique flair in movement that matched their
characterisation, while the group routines felt tight, polished and bursting with energy. The
choreography was also well-pitched for a youth group, allowing the cast to shine individually.
A very strong job.

Catherine of Aragon
You opened the show with great confidence and set the tone beautifully. Your vocals were
excellent – strong, clear, and full of power – and you carried “No Way” with real authority. A
fantastic start that instantly drew the audience in.

Anne Boleyn
You captured the mischievous spirit of Boleyn brilliantly, bringing cheeky humour and playful
energy to every moment on stage. Your strong vocals matched that characterisation
perfectly, making “Don’t lose ur head” both cheeky and vocally impressive.

Jane Seymour
You provided a wonderful contrast to the other Queens, grounding your role with sincerity
and emotional depth. Your lovely voice shone through in “Heart of Stone”, delivering a
moving and heartfelt performance that stood apart from the high-energy numbers around it.

Anne of Cleves
Your performance was full of fun and charisma, and you clearly enjoyed every moment on
stage. “Get Down” was a real highlight, bursting with energy and playfulness – it even gave
me Madness – House of Fun vibes, which only added to the joy of your delivery.

Katherine Howard
You captured Howard’s character brilliantly, navigating the shift from over-confident and bold
to a more naïve and vulnerable side with skill. Your song, “All You Wanna Do”, showcased
this transition perfectly, blending sass with charm and keeping the audience fully engaged
throughout.

Catherine Parr
You delivered a strong performance throughout, holding your own alongside the other
Queens with confidence and poise. Your vocals were clear and controlled, and you brought
energy and presence to every moment, making “I Don’t Need Your Love” a fitting and
powerful conclusion to the show.

Ladies in waiting
Led by the Musical Director, you were a superb addition to the production. You brought
fantastic energy to every scene, occasionally using props to add extra fun and theatricality.
All company numbers were delivered brilliantly, with particular highlights being the two
finales,” Six” and “The MegaSIX”, which were executed with power, precision, and huge
enthusiasm. The ensemble really lifted the show and complimented the Queens perfectly.

Director
The vision for this production was brilliant, and it was clear from start to finish that you had a
strong understanding of how you wanted the show to land. Your use of the stage was
excellent, giving each Queen their moment to shine while keeping the energy high
throughout. The pacing, transitions, and overall flow were handled with confidence,
showcasing your skill as a director and ensuring that the show remained engaging, polished,
and full of life from start to finish.

To close, I want to thank everyone at Barnstaple Young Generation for welcoming me back
so warmly – it’s always a pleasure to visit The Venue and see the incredible talent in your
company. This production of SIX Teen Edition was energetic, vibrant, and thoroughly
entertaining, showcasing not only the skill of the Queens but the strength and the creativity
of the team behind the scenes. You should all be very proud of what you’ve achieved, and I
look forward to seeing your next performance.

Stephen Fudge

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