Six The Musical
Six The Musical is a groundbreaking modern pop musical that has captivated audiences worldwide. With music, book, and lyrics by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, this theatrical experience reimagines the six wives of Henry VIII as pop stars competing in a singing competition to reclaim their narratives. Each queen's individuality and empowerment are celebrated through a dynamic performance that resonates with contemporary themes.
In Durham, the Durham Performing Arts Center serves as an ideal venue for this vibrant production. The theater's design complements the minimal yet highly stylized set of Six, which evokes the atmosphere of a pop concert with LED lighting rigs and a runway stage. The energy of the live performance is amplified by high-energy choreography and an all-female/non-binary band, 'The Ladies in Waiting', who accompany the queens throughout the show.
The musical features a setlist of original pop songs that tell the stories of each queen, including hits like "Ex-Wives," "No Way," and "Heart of Stone." The production runs approximately 80–90 minutes without an intermission, ensuring a continuous flow of entertainment that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.
The Durham Performing Arts Center is known for hosting a variety of acclaimed performances, making it a significant cultural hub in Durham. Its accessibility and welcoming atmosphere enhance the overall experience for attendees, who often dress as their favorite queens and participate in post-show singalongs.
Six The Musical has received universal acclaim, winning multiple awards including Tony Awards for Best Original Score and Best Costume Design. Its fresh approach to storytelling has made it particularly popular among younger audiences, establishing it as a major social media phenomenon.