QPAC

While continuing to triumphantly reign on global stages, the international smash-hit phenomenon SIX the Musical makes its royal return to Australia, with seasons confirmed at Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre from July, Theatre Royal Sydney from October and Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC)’s Playhouse Theatre from January 2027.

From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the six wives of Henry VIII Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anna of Cleves, Katherine Howard and Catherine Parr will turn up the mics remixing 500 years of history into an 80-minute electrifying pop-concert musical that has become a global cultural phenomenon.

Taking on the role of the first wife, the sassy Catherine of Aragon, will be Sarah Murr. Originally from Townsville and a graduate of the Queensland Conservatorium, Sarah has built an impressive career across celebrated Australian productions, from Les Misérables to Hadestown and & Juliet. Her recent standout performances include one of the Fates in Hadestown and a Green Room Award-nominated turn as Kala in Tarzan: The Musical. With a dynamic stage presence and powerhouse vocals, Sarah brings a wealth of experience and undeniable charisma to the role.

Joining the cast as the bold and rebellious Anne Boleyn will be Mia Paris Scalise making her professional stage debut. A Melbourne-based graduate of the Victorian College of the Arts, her passion for acting has seen her feature across short films, feature films and modelling campaigns. Bursting with fresh energy and talent, she steps into the spotlight as one of Australia’s exciting new musical theatre voices.

Cara Bessey takes on the role of the devoted third wife Jane Seymour. Originally from Canberra and a graduate of NIDA, Cara has built a strong foundation across both stage and screen, with theatre credits including Mary Poppins and the recent Australian tour of Sister Act. Her versatility has seen her perform as an onstage swing and cover multiple principal roles, whilst also appearing in various screen roles. Bringing warmth, depth and quiet strength to the role, Cara offers a compelling take on one of SIX’s most heartfelt queens.

The bold and unapologetic Anna of Cleves will be played by Kadesa Honeyhill. Making her professional musical theatre debut in MAMMA MIA! before stepping into the cast of TINA: The Tina Turner Musical, she has a deep-rooted passion for dance and music. Inspired by her parents, both professional dancers, she brings fierce energy and individuality to the stage, Kadesa is set to make Anna of Cleves entirely her own.

The role of the playful fifth wife, Katherine Howard will be played by Angela Brischetto. Originally from Far North Queensland, she holds qualifications in both dance and musical theatre, underpinning her dynamic performance style. Her professional debut was made in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, alongside screen appearances in Good Cop/Bad Cop and Hourglass. Bringing confidence, charisma and a contemporary edge, Angela steps into the role as an exciting rising talent.

Lorinda May Merrypor joins the cast in the role of the final and empowering wife Catherine Parr. Best known for her starring turn as Juliet in & Juliet, Lorinda has an extensive list of stage credits including Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, American Idiot, The Sapphires and STC’s recent production of Picnic at Hanging Rock. A Green Room Award nominee for Best Leading Artist in a Musical, she is a graduate of the Queensland Conservatorium and one of Australia’s most compelling musical theatre performers. Bringing strength, intelligence and emotional depth to the role, Lorinda is set to embody the resilience of Catherine Parr on stage.

Joining the SIX Australian Queens are the extremely talented swings made up of Lauren Goetz, Geena Hutton, and returning cast members Thalia Smith as Dance Captain/Swing and Associate Choreographer/Assistant to the Director/Alternate Swing Cristina D’Agostino. Also supported by the SIX on stage band including Music Director/Keys Claire Healy, Assistant Music Director/Keys Heidi Maguire, Kathryn Stammers on Drums, Danielle Colligan on Guitar and Matilda Yang on Bass. This new and exciting company commence rehearsals in June under the helm of Australian Associate Director Sharon Millerchip leading the team once again.

On behalf of the Producers Louise Withers said, “We are thrilled to introduce this extraordinary new cast of Queens — each bringing their own unique talent, energy and individuality to these iconic roles.

"The passion and energy of the SIX audiences and fans are such a vital part of what makes this show special, and we know they are going to absolutely love this dynamic new cast.

"As SIX returns to Australia, it offers a fresh opportunity for audiences to experience the show’s irresistible blend of history, humour and high-octane pop — whether for the first time or all over again while also discovering something entirely new with this incredible company.”

SIX tells the extraordinary story of the six wives of King Henry VIII who step out of the shadow of their infamous husband and reclaim their own narratives. Written by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, this modern pop-inspired musical brings these historical figures to life, portraying them as fierce and influential pop stars in their own right.

With its innovative and empowering take on history, and redefining of the modern musical, SIX has amassed a huge global community of all ages experiencing this fresh, clever, uplifting and intoxicating show.

SIX is the winner of 38 international awards, including two Tony Awards® and a Platinum certified soundtrack that’s been listened to over 5.5 billion times. The production attracts more than 3.5 million fans annually, and the show has now played in over 15 countries, proving the Queens’ reign is far from over.

Since its debut at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2017, SIX has received widespread critical acclaim, leaving audiences enthralled by its infectious energy, catchy tunes, and empowering message. It swiftly moved to the West End and Broadway and continued to garner international recognition with productions in Australia, Canada, the United States, Europe and South Korea, Singapore, the Philippines, Japan and China.

What sets SIX apart is its ability to resonate with diverse audiences and breathe new life into historical storytelling. With its cleverly crafted lyrics and contemporary sound, the musical effortlessly bridges the gap between the past and the present, appealing to both theatre enthusiasts and those new to the genre. It has become a cultural touchstone, inspiring fans to embrace their own strength and celebrate the triumphs and struggles of these remarkable women.

Moreover, SIX has made a significant impact in the digital realm, creating a vibrant online community of devoted fans, lovingly referred to as the ‘Queendom'. Its infectious songs and empowering themes have sparked viral trends on platforms like TikTok and YouTube, with fans passionately sharing their love for the show through fan art, cover performances, and heartfelt and passionate discussions.

Created by a brilliant original creative team - SIX the Musical has book, lyrics and music by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss. It is directed by Lucy Moss and Jamie Armitage and choregraphed by Carrie-Anne Ingrouille. Set Design is by Emma Bailey, Costume Design is by Gabriella Slade, Lighting Design is by Tim Deiling and Sound Design is by Paul Gatehouse. The Orchestrator is Tom Curran and Musical Supervisor is Joe Beighton.

Originally Produced by Kenny Wax, Wendy & Andy Barnes, and George Stiles.

Produced in Australia by Louise Withers, Michael Coppel and Linda Bewick.