Following its previous triumphs, the critically acclaimed musical “Six” is set to make a highly anticipated return to the Blackpool Winter Gardens for its fourth stint as part of its expansive UK tour. This sensational production, crafted by the talented duo Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, will grace the stage from December 22, 2025, through January 4, 2026. The news has already generated considerable excitement among local theatergoers, especially given that the previous three runs at the iconic venue completely sold out.
“Six” is a revolutionary musical that breathes fresh life into historical storytelling by focusing on the six wives of the infamous King Henry VIII. Instead of being mere footnotes in history, these women take center stage, each armed with a microphone to narrate their personal experiences and struggles. The musical cleverly remixes over five centuries of heartbreak into an exuberant 80-minute celebration, highlighting 21st-century girl power and the resilience of women.
Audiences are entranced by the vibrant blend of pop music and historical narrative. Each wife offers a unique perspective on their life with Henry, transforming what has long been a subject of scholarly discussion into an entertaining, relatable performance. Through their songs, the wives express themes of love, betrayal, empowerment, and survival, drawing parallels between their struggles and contemporary issues that resonate with modern audiences.
The production has received overwhelming acclaim, winning more than 35 international awards, underscoring its universal appeal and artistic excellence. Notable achievements include the prestigious Tony Award for Best Original Score and Best Costume Design, alongside being a double winner of the Whatsonstage Award for Best West End Show. Additionally, the musical boasts a Gold-Disk-winning album, further solidifying its place in modern musical theater history.
The creative team behind “Six” is nothing short of remarkable. Co-directed by Lucy Moss and Jamie Armitage, their vision allows for a seamless blend of storytelling and music that captivates audiences from start to finish. The choreography, crafted by Carrie-Anne Ingrouille, injects a lively energy into the performance, engaging viewers and elevating the narrative through dynamic movement.
In terms of visual presentation, the design team is instrumental in bringing the musical’s electrifying atmosphere to life. Emma Bailey’s set design transports spectators into a world that is both modern and reflective of the historical context, while Gabriella Slade’s costume design infuses the production with vibrant colors and contemporary flair, ensuring that the characters not only tell their stories but do so in style that resonates with today’s audience. Tim Deiling’s lighting design creates an immersive experience, enhancing the emotional highs and lows depicted in the musical, and Paul Gatehouse’s sound design ensures that every note, beat, and spoken word reaches the audience with clarity and impact.
The musical score is an innovative blend of sound that expertly combines various musical influences to create something distinctly fresh and original. Orchestrations by Tom Curran enhance the already powerful songs, making them even more impactful. Joe Beighton’s music supervision and vocal arrangements add an additional layer of sophistication to the performances, ensuring that each note is perfectly executed. Musical director Yutong Zhang and associate UK musical supervisor Lauren Hopkinson are also crucial members of the team, directing the talented cast and ensuring that their performances shine.
Casting for the production has been curated by Pearson Casting, known for their talent in assembling diverse and skilled performers who can bring such rich characters to life. The dynamic portrayal of the wives—Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleves, Catherine Howard, and Catherine Parr—requires not just vocal prowess but also the ability to embody the essence of these historical figures while making them relatable to a contemporary audience. Each casting choice promises to deliver a powerful performance, breathing new life into stories that have been told for centuries.
“Six” is produced by Kenny Wax, Wendy and Andy Barnes, and George Stiles, acclaimed figures in the theater community who are known for their commitment to creating high-quality, engaging productions. Their combined expertise and passion for the arts have undoubtedly played a role in the musical’s success and enduring popularity.
With the show returning to the Blackpool Winter Gardens, fans are eager to snap up tickets for this limited engagement. Tickets will be available exclusively to Winter Gardens members starting at 10 am on December 5, 2024, providing early access to those who cherish the venue. Following this, general ticket sales will commence at 10 am on December 6, 2024, ensuring that a broader audience will have the opportunity to experience the excitement and brilliance of “Six.”
Given the musical’s previous success and the enthusiasm surrounding its return, it’s anticipated that tickets will sell quickly. The combination of a blockbuster script, energetic performances, and stellar production values assures that “Six” will once again leave an indelible mark on its audience. The engaging blend of history and modernity appeals not only to musical theater lovers but also to those who may be new to the genre, capturing the imagination of a wide demographic.
The resonance of “Six” is particularly profound in an age where women’s voices and stories are increasingly recognized and celebrated. The musical serves as a celebration of female empowerment, encouraging audiences to reflect on the strength, resilience, and individual journeys of women, both in yesterday’s history and today’s society. The wives of Henry VIII, often portrayed solely in relation to their powerful husband, are given the chance to reclaim their narratives, transforming them from historical figures into relatable and inspiring characters.
For those involved in the production, the return to Blackpool Winter Gardens is not just a revival of a beloved musical. It’s an opportunity to engage with familiar fans while welcoming new ones, to connect with the audience in the joyous celebration of life, love, and the indomitable spirit of womanhood. Whether you are drawn in by the catchy tunes, the powerful performances, or the inspiring stories, “Six” promises to be an experience filled with laughter, reflection, and an unforgettable celebration of the strength of women across the ages.
As the anticipation builds for this upcoming engagement in Blackpool, it is clear that “Six” has established itself as a modern classic in musical theater. Its resonance and relevance mean that it will continue to be a talking point and a thrilling theatrical experience for years to come. The blend of historical intrigue with contemporary themes ensures that audiences leave the theater not only entertained but also invigorated and inspired.
Ultimately, the return of “Six” to the Blackpool Winter Gardens offers a unique opportunity to witness a production that masterfully blends history with modern storytelling, reminding everyone that the tales of these extraordinary women still hold significance today. As audiences prepare to gather in anticipation of its arrival, they can expect nothing short of an electrifying theatrical experience that celebrates the power of female voices—past, present, and future. Mark your calendars, grab your tickets as soon as they are available, and ready yourself for an unforgettable journey with “Six.”