The cultural life of Edinburgh practically sparkles with its marvellous mosaic. Such a number of talented figures, combined with the incredible general atmosphere of the city, create true wonders. It must be said that even the local theatres, concert halls, museums, galleries, and other similar establishments play a colossal role in promoting creativity. After all, it is there that the public can enjoy their favourite works, brought to life through the skill of the actors. And of course, these places introduce audiences to new plays, performances, expositions, and exhibitions. Thus, the circulation of art never ends. Consequently, this enhances the cultural consciousness of Edinburgh’s society. More on edinburgh-trend.
A Favourite Genre and Variety of Productions
But when speaking of the productions that can be seen on the stages of the Scottish capital, it is important to note the following. The fact is that among the vast number of works performed and presented for the audience’s judgement, there are those that enjoy particular popularity. And, of course, the love of the public. Moreover, if guided by genre, one can see that people do not always single out something excessively dramatic for themselves. For example, a musical comedy, with all its inherent lightness and brightness, sometimes touches the heart far more than a play on a well-worn romantic theme.
An Incredibly Successful Project
So, the musical SIX happens to be one such production. Despite its historical subtext (it is effectively a modern retelling of the lives of the six wives of Henry VIII), the popularity of this musical comedy has proven to be colossal.
Speaking of such a successful project, it is, of course, entirely fair to dwell on the plot in more detail. After all, the lion’s share of its triumph is essentially secured by it.
An Unusual Presentation
As mentioned above, on stage, the audience can observe the six women who were the wives of Henry VIII. Each of them presents her story in a sort of biographical song. But at the same time, they agree that the lead singer of their unique group will be the one whose fate it was to endure the worst times with their common former husband-monarch. What’s interesting is that all the heroines are presented in the image of pop stars. This makes the musical’s presentation truly unusual. After all, you’ll agree, it’s not often you see a production about historical figures in such a unique style.
The Fates of the Famous Monarch’s Wives
So, returning to the plot, it should be noted that during the production, Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleves, Katherine Howard, and Catherine Parr, through the performance of songs, share the nature of their relationships with the king. This is another special feature of the musical. Because, in essence, the audience has a wonderful opportunity to fill in their gaps in historical knowledge. Especially since the events and facts of the past are presented in such a relaxed, light form. And even those who were not very successful pupils at school, who hated reading and studying the problems of different eras, will surely remember the key moments. After all, it is much easier to single out the main points when set to music. And here, the information comes, one might say, from the horse’s mouth. The heroines themselves share their innermost secrets, telling of their fates.
For example, Catherine of Aragon speaks of how Henry desired an annulment of their marriage, preparing for his wife the fate of a nun. He even overlooked the woman’s devotion. And the cause of it all was the king’s new infatuation in the person of Anne Boleyn. She, in turn, tells how the monarch did indeed spurn Catherine for her sake. However, she too had a bitter time of it later – His Majesty’s infidelity became the main problem in their marriage. Moreover, the result was a real tragedy in the form of Boleyn’s execution. Jane Seymour asserts that Henry’s feelings for her were conditional. They were guaranteed solely by her bearing him a son and heir.
So, she also felt the king’s numerous shortcomings keenly.
Realising Their Own Independence
In general, the wives of Henry VIII effectively bare their souls, telling of the peculiarities of their life with the king, and trying to win the status of the one who suffered the most. But in the finale of the musical, having heard each other out, the women realise that absolutely every one of them is strong, independent, and unique in her own way. So they decide to stop all competition and instead unite, celebrating their courage, confidence, and strength.
A Musical Comedy Genuinely Loved by Audiences
It is important to note that the musical was first shown during The Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2017. Interestingly, the main roles were then performed by students from The University of Cambridge. After that, SIX effectively gained the status of an international-level production, which audiences met with great success.
Thus, SIX is one of the most popular and beloved musical comedies whose life began in Edinburgh. After all, it was the legendary festival that served as the launchpad for a production that later went beyond the bounds of amateur or semi-professional theatre. This musical rose to a serious level and attracted the attention of a huge number of viewers, not only in Great Britain. The feminist subtext, which is impossible not to notice in the plot, became a real feature and managed to emphasise female strength and independence. And well, the unique combination of pop music and other contemporary genres, along with an original perspective on history, managed to provide that quality which made the production one of a kind.
