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Guide to seeing SIX the Musical in Melbourne
Glitz, glamour and catchy pop songs: SIX the Musical is one of the best shows you can catch in Melbourne. Here’s everything you need to know about this smash hit that runs from 2 August to 20 October 2024.
SIX the Musical is preparing to take the city by storm at Melbourne's Comedy Theatre after successful stints on Broadway, the West End, Sydney Opera House, as well as Adelaide, Perth and Canberra.
Winner of 35 major international awards, including two Tony Awards, this global musical phenomenon sees the six wives of Henry VIII tell the story of their suffering and their subsequent deaths – in the glitteriest and most spectacular way possible.
Here’s your complete guide to seeing SIX the Musical live on stage in Melbourne.
More: The best musicals and theatre shows in Melbourne
Banner photo credit: James D Morgan
Everything you need to know about SIX the Musical in Melbourne
What is SIX the Musical about?
SIX the Musical retells the story of Henry VIII's six wives (Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anna of Cleves, Katherine Howard and Catherine Parr) as a pop musical phenomenon.
In this high-octane 80-minute musical experience, the feisty Tudor queens boldly rewrite 500 years of history.
Don’t miss your chance to experience this HERstoric musical, in an unforgettable production that promises to have you losing your head!
Is SIX the Musical suitable for children?
SIX the Musical is recommended for ages 10 and up, so older kids can come along. Keep in mind, however, that there are some adult references throughout the show.
Who is in the Melbourne cast of SIX the Musical?
The main characters in SIX the Musical are Henry VIII’s six wives, who are played by (in order):
- Catherine of Aragon - Kimberley Hodgson
- Anne Boleyn - Deirdre Khoo
- Jane Seymour - Loren Hunter
- Anna of Cleves - Zelia Rose Kitoko
- Katherine Howard - Chelsea Dawson
- Catherine Parr - Giorgia Kennedy
The Swings comprise Chiara Assetta, Gabriella Boumford and Thalia Smith, while Cristina D'Agostino is Resident Choreographer, Assistant to the Director and Alternate Swing.
The 2024 SIX the Musical cast: from left to right, Kimberley Hodgson, Deirdre Khoo, Loren Hunter, Zelia Rose Kitoko, Chelsea Dawson and Giorgia Kennedy. Image: Michelle Grace Hunder
How long is SIX the Musical showing for?
SIX the Musical will run from 2 August to 20 October 2024.
Evening shows run Tuesday to Sunday, plus matinee shows on weekends and select Wednesdays.
How long does SIX the Musical go for?
SIX the Musical has an 80-minute runtime with no interval.
It's recommended you arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the show commencing to allow enough time to go to the bar before you take your seat.
Where is SIX the Musical showing?
SIX the Musical is showing at Melbourne’s historic Comedy Theatre. Built in 1928, the Comedy Theatre is a blend of European influences, with the exterior being a replica of a Florentine palace and the interior showing a strong Spanish flavour.
The Comedy Theatre's 1,000-person capacity means your theatre experience will be a more intimate one than some other theatres in Melbourne.
How can I buy tickets to SIX the Musical?
You can purchase SIX the Musical tickets from the Comedy Theatre’s official ticketing partner, Ticketek. Tickets purchased from any other sources may not be valid, so make sure to buy only from Ticketek.
Henry VIII's six wives on stage (2021-23 Australian cast). Image: James D Morgan
What is the history of SIX the Musical?
Before you see SIX the Musical, it’s worth knowing a little about Henry VIII, the King of England from 1509 to 1547.
Henry VIII is best known for his six wives: in order, Catherine of Aragon (Arthur's widow and mother of the future queen Mary I), Anne Boleyn (mother of the future queen Elizabeth I), Jane Seymour (mother of Henry's successor, Edward VI), Anna of Cleves, Katherine Howard, and Catherine Parr.
Why did Henry VIII go through so many wives? It was imperative that a king produce a male heir to the throne, and historically infertility was blamed solely on the woman. Henry VIII disposed of his first, second, fourth and fifth wives through beheadings or annulments when they were unable to give him a male heir.
Only his third wife, Jane Seymour, gave birth to a male heir (Edward VI), but she died from childbirth complications soon after. Henry VIII's only other surviving wife was his sixth wife, Catherine Parr, who outlived the king.
Is there a dress code to see SIX the Musical?
While there is no formal dress code for the Comedy Theatre, SIX the Musical is a dazzling and glitzy show. You may wish to dress up a little and have some fun when attending this show – think sparkles, sequins and bright colours.
Is food and drink available at the Comedy Theatre?
Bars at the Comedy Theatre open one hour before the show, serving local beers, Victorian wines and hand-made cocktails, plus a snack selection including choc tops, chips and chocolate.
SIX the Musical shows the strength of women in overcoming adversity (2021-23 Australian cast). Image: James D Morgan
Restaurants and bars near the Comedy Theatre
There are many great Melbourne CBD restaurants to enjoy before a show at the Comedy Theatre, including Fancy Hank's (American BBQ) on Bourke Street, Tippy-Tay (Italian) on Flinders Lane and Bodega Underground (Mexican) on Little Bourke Street. Chinatown is also a short walk to the Comedy Theatre.
However, if you’re after a restaurant with an emphasis on all things local, head to the creative and bold two-level restaurant Sojourn, which is great for theatre groups with big share plates on offer.
When the show is done, you might want to head to bars like Bourke Street Green, just a short walk from the Comedy Theatre. Some of the Melbourne CBD's other best cocktail bars include Eau de Vie and Nick & Nora’s.
How to get to the Comedy Theatre
Conveniently located right in the heart of Melbourne CBD, the Comedy Theatre is easily accessible via public transport. Either catch a train to Parliament Station or catch the 86 or 96 trams to Russel Street Stop 7.
If you’re more inclined to drive, there are many Wilson Parking car parks nearby, including on Flinders Street, just a short few minutes’ walk from the theatre.
If you are coming via public transport, travel with arevo - a free journey planner app that can map out the most efficient travel route to the Comedy Theatre.
