Last week, I stumbled upon an exciting announcement while browsing my YouTube recommendations: “SIX!” is releasing a film adaptation titled “Six The Musical! Live!” on Paramount+. As one of my favorite historical musicals, this news made my heart leap with joy, reminiscent of the thrill I felt when Hamilton debuted on Disney+ a few years ago.
The prospect of a film adaptation brings a new dimension to this remarkable production, allowing broader audiences to experience the electrifying performances and catchy tunes.
However, it also made me ponder how to express my excitement without oversharing with friends and peers. Thus, I’ve decided to share a brief musical synopsis of “SIX!” along with my favorite wife.
The show tells the extraordinary stories of King Henry VIII’s six wives, who step out from the shadows of their infamous husband to reclaim their own narratives. This theme resonates strongly in today’s society, where women’s voices and histories are increasingly recognized and celebrated.
In addition, the upcoming film adaptation promises to enhance that representation further. Each of Henry’s wives exhibits unique looks, backgrounds, styles, and personalities, adding depth and nuance to the original stage production. This diverse portrayal is particularly important in our current cultural landscape, where representation—both female and racial—is vital.
The history of Henry’s six wives unfolds like a tapestry woven with ambition, betrayal and resilience. Catherine of Aragon, his first wife, faced a tumultuous marriage that ended in divorce after she failed to provide a male heir. Anne Boleyn, his second wife, is often remembered for her dramatic downfall, accused of treason and executed. Jane Seymour, who finally bore Henry a son, died shortly after childbirth, highlighting the brutal realities of life in the Tudor court. While Anne of Cleves enjoyed a more fortunate fate, Catherine Howard met a tragic end, echoing the dangers of living in Henry’s shadow. Finally, Catherine Parr, the last wife, survived Henry and emerged as a wise leader in her own right.
Among the wives, my personal favorite is Anna of Cleves, known as the “Flanders Mare.” Her story is both humorous and poignant; she married Henry for political reasons but was quickly divorced after he deemed her unattractive. Her character stands out due to her self-assuredness
and the modern spin on her narrative: she embraces her individuality and celebrates herself, contrasting sharply with the tragic endings faced by some of the other wives.
I am so happy to have friends who share my love for this news, as they are anticipating a great version of a musical classic.
“I love SIX!” said Lily Harris, a sophomore English major. “It tells a story that everyone has heard from Henry’s perspective and this way we get to see it from the
women who died because of him. I am very excited for the “SIX the Musical Live!” adaptation! It will be so fun to see a cast perform it that I did not get to see when I saw it on Broadway in July of 2022!”
Central to “SIX!” is the character of King Henry VIII himself, who is driven by two main desires: to have a male heir and to establish the Church of England. These motivations form the backbone of the story and illuminate the dynamics between him and his six wives, ultimately shaping their individual tales. We typically see throughout history his perspective as Lily suggested, but now the wives get a chance to share their story.
In addition, the visual potential of the film adaptation cannot be understated. With advancements in film technology and production quality, “Six The Musical! Live!” promises to create a vivid and immersive depiction of the Tudor era. The elaborate costumes, dynamic choreography, and engaging cinematography will likely bring a fresh perspective to the well-known narratives. Filmmakers can take advantage of today’s digital platforms to enhance the storytelling experience, drawing viewers deeper into the world of Henry VIII’s court.
Furthermore, the music itself serves as a significant attraction. The contemporary pop-infused score crafted by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss mixes catchy hooks with powerful lyrics, making it relatable to even those unfamiliar with Tudor history. By blending diverse musical influences, the film adaptation could introduce younger audiences to the power of historical storytelling, encouraging them to delve deeper into the lives and struggles of women throughout history. Such an effect has the potential to inspire a new generation to appreciate the complexities of historical narratives through this engaging format.
While we anticipate what the film will look like, some other friends are not pleased….
“Six! The Musical is a no-go in my mind.” said Callie Paulk, a freshman psychology major. “While I love the history of King Henry VIII and his 6 wives, I have a deep despise for Six The Musical. It is 30 minutes long and barely a concert. The entire plot of Six The Musical is them playing the victim card and having a competition over who had the worst trauma. It’s just a pity party with a few songs.”
Despite mixed opinions, the anticipation for “Six The Musical! Live!” highlights the enduring interest in this historical narrative. The blend of history, empowerment, and entertainment makes for a compelling story that resonates with modern audiences.
As the film adaptation approaches, it will undoubtedly spark conversations about the lives of these historical figures and their legacies, offering them the recognition they deserve.
Having a revamped version in a time where girl power is a universal message for women and girls alike will only be beneficial for the media continuing throughout the year.
Ultimately, “Six The Musical! Live!” could redefine how we engage with history, portraying these women as powerful figures rather than mere footnotes in a story dominated by their husbands.
This adaptation, like the original musical, can serve as a reminder that history is often told through the lens of men, leaving women’s stories unheard. By amplifying their voices—voices that were once silenced—the film will provide an opportunity for reflection on both past injustices and present-day progress towards equality.
“Six The Musical! Live!” Premieres Sunday, Apr. 6, 2025, first in theatres, then soon after to Paramount+.