Get ready, because history is about to get a serious makeover when SIX the Musical storms into the Civic Theatre Newcastle from 10 April until 4 May.
The show reimagines the stories of Henry VIII’s six wives in a dazzling 80-minute spectacle where each queen will take centre stage to tell her story, battling it out for the title of ‘most hard done by’ wife.
In this post, we’re introducing you to the incredible cast bringing these iconic women to life, giving you an insight into their real historical characters, and uncovering the pop icons that inspire their onstage performances.
WIFE #1: Catherine of Aragon
PLAYED BY: Kimberley Hodgson
INSPO: Beyoncé and Jennifer Hudson
Catherine of Aragon, Henry VIII’s first wife, was a strong and dignified queen who refused to be cast aside. In SIX, she channels the powerhouse vocals of Beyoncé and Jennifer Hudson. Bringing that regal energy to the stage is Kimberley Hodgson. You might have seen her as Anita in West Side Story on Sydney Harbour, or as Gigi in Miss Saigon. She’s also been in big shows like Mary Poppins and Frozen, and even originated a role in the Aussie musical ‘Fangirls.’ With nominations for Green Room and Matilda Awards, Kimberley’s got the vocal chops and stage presence that ensure Catherine isn’t a Queen to be trifled with!
WIFE #2: Anne Boleyn
PLAYED BY: Deirdre Khoo
INSPO: Avril Lavigne and Lily Allen
Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII’s second wife, was known for her wit and rebellious spirit, despite her tragic end. In SIX, she’s bringing those punk-pop vibes, channelling Avril Lavigne and Lily Allen. Playing Anne is Deirdre Khoo, a Singapore-born actor with a diverse background from WAAPA. You might recognise her as Janet Weiss from the 50th Anniversary Tour of The Rocky Horror Show. She’s also been in shows like ONCE, A Christmas Carol, and MAMMA MIA! Deirdre’s got the stage presence and versatility to capture Anne’s sharp humour and ultimately, her fight for survival.
WIFE #3: Jane Seymour
PLAYED BY: Loren Hunter
INSPO: Adele, Sia, and Celine Dion.
Jane Seymour, Henry VIII’s third wife, was known for her quiet strength and for giving Henry his long-awaited son. In SIX, she’s bringing the powerhouse vocals, channelling Adele, Sia, and Celine Dion. Playing Jane is Loren Hunter, a versatile performer and WAAPA graduate. She originated the role of Jane Seymour in the Australian tour of SIX. You might have also seen her as Mimi in RENT, or in shows like Jersey Boys and Wicked. Loren’s even been in big productions like Strictly Ballroom and King Kong. With her incredible voice and stage presence, she’s ready to bring Jane’s emotional story to life.
WIFE #4: Anna Of Cleves
PLAYED BY: Zelia Rose Kitoko
INSPO: Nicki Minaj and Rihanna.
Anna of Cleves, Henry VIII’s fourth wife, was known for her independence and her savvy post-divorce life. In SIX, she channels the fierce energy of Nicki Minaj and Rihanna. Bringing that confident vibe is Zelia Rose Kitoko. Zelia’s not your typical musical theatre performer – she’s an award-winning burlesque artist, named number one in the world! She’s toured globally with Dita Von Teese and graced stages from the Folies Bergère to The London Palladium. You might also recognise her from Hamilton or Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812. Zelia’s diverse talents and powerful stage presence make her the perfect fit for Anna’s unapologetic story.
WIFE #5: Katherine Howard
PLAYED BY: Chelsea Dawson
INSPO: Britney Spears & Ariana Grande
Katherine Howard, Henry VIII’s fifth wife, was young and, let’s be honest, she liked to party (who doesn’t?). Her short reign ended tragically after accusations of (gasp) adultery. In ‘SIX,’ she’s channelling major Britney and Ariana vibes with heaps of youthful pop energy. Brisbane native Chelsea Dawsona plays the role of Kathrine in the musical. She brings a solid musical theatre background to the challenge and her previous turn as Katherine in SIX earned her a Green Room Award. After touring with MAMMA MIA! and a stint in ZOMBIE! The Musical, she’s back to bring Katherine’s to life in Newcastle!
WIFE #6: Catherine Parr
PLAYED BY: Giorgia Kennedy
INSPO: Alicia Keys and Emeli Sandé
Catherine Parr, Henry VIII’s sixth and final wife, was known for her intelligence and her role in reuniting Henry’s family. In ‘SIX,’ she channels the soulful power of Alicia Keys and Emeli Sandé. Playing Catherine is Giorgia Kennedy, a proud Colombian/Trinidadian Australian and WAAPA graduate. She recently covered roles in Jagged Little Pill and is currently in & Juliet‘ You might have also seen her in Cry Baby or during her time at WAAPA in productions like Merrily We Roll Along and A Chorus Line. Giorgia’s got the vocal talent and stage presence to bring Catherine’s strength and wisdom to the stage
SIX the Musical
10 APRIL – 4 MAY
CIVIC THEATRE NEWCASTLE
