Review: The Bushnell, "Six, The Musical"

The Bushnell, Hartford, CT

www.bushnell.org

through Jan. 5, 2025

by Suzanne Wells

What do you get when you mix historical female role models with modern-day rock icons? “Six, The Musical” by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss. Based on the six wives of Henry VIII, the show reveals each of their lives through the musical influences of rockstars like Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Ariana Grande, to name a few. This all-female cast and band put on a rockin’ concert, conveying each woman’s strengths, weaknesses, and ultimate outcomes.

The atmosphere is a contrast between medieval and current times. The stage, designed by Emma Bailey, is set as a dark castle. The lighting, designed by Tim Deiling, and the scented fog contribute to the overall environment, making the audience feel as if they are attending a court banquet. Yet the modernized Tudor-era ball gowns, created by Gabriella Slade, incorporate a blinged-out, metallicized style found at any contemporary rock concert.

 

The choreography of modern dance moves conveys a myriad of emotions—joy, strength, lust, revulsion, horror—all the raunchy debauchery associated with the 16th century. The use of modern-day rituals and references makes these historical figures very relatable and adds a little levity to the storyline.

Each wife presents her story through a clever, witty solo drawing parallels between the past and present. While every song sweeps the audience into the excitement and emotion of the production, Kelly Denice Taylor’s voice while performing the power ballad “Heart of Stone” clearly moves the soul. “Get Down” performed by Danielle Mendoza is a feel-good, toe-tapping good time. And “All You Wanna Do” sung by Alizé Cruz creates a flirtatious vibe, revealing the destructive nature of repetitive patterns. The performers' vocal abilities are truly impressive, and their energy is infectious.

Whether a history buff, a music lover, or just looking for a fun night out, “Six” has something for everyone. This must-see show inspires strength, solidarity, respect, and equality; a unique and empowering musical.