Divorced. Beheaded. Died. Divorced. Beheaded. Survived.

Most, if not all of us, have heard the rhyme about the six wives of Henry VIII, but if they could tell their stories then what would they say. Thankfully we no longer need to imagine thanks to the new hit musical, Six.

I have to admit going into this that growing up I was a bit of a geek when it came to the Tudors. I read everything I could about all six women because I found it so fascinating – although Henry I wasn’t that fussed by – my child’s mind he seemed mean, as an adult I could definitely use stronger language.

So when I happened to see a clip about the musical I messaged my friend saying it seemed cool and thank the universe it was on in Southampton which is a 40-minute train journey from us – result!

Catherine of Aarrgon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleaves, Kathrine Howard and Katherine Parr. No doubt you’ve heard their names in a history lesson. While they’re known as the six wives of Henry VIII but what were their stories.

This is a punchy, feminist story of six women taking back control. In a musical that feels more like a gig, each queen sings her heart out in a talent show style format (that I was not expecting!).

I saw the show over a week ago and have had the soundtrack on repeat. Their stories have been bought into the modern age with the laughs too! The fun of this musical is key.

At 1 hour and 5 minutes, it’s the shortest musical I’ve seen but this fit perfectly, I think any longer would have dragged. My personal favourites were Ex-Wives, Don’t Lose Your Head, Haus of Holbein, All You Wanna Do and Six.

The only adjustments I’d make (if any) are that I’d like to have seen more of Anne Boleyn’s intelligence. She’s portrayed as a little bit ditzy and was actually fiercely clever. That said, she was still my favourite in the musical!

I am really hoping I can get tickets to go and see Six again during their London run. This was an absolutely stunning musical with humour and heart. I’ll be avidly following what happens next! If you haven’t seen it or want to see it again the website is here AND, as I found out, you can listen to the cast recording via streaming or buying a copy. I’ve also popped a teaser below!