How the ‘SIX’ Cast Prepares for a Big Night on Broadway

“SIX” has been captivating Broadway audiences for nearly three years, and it shows no signs of losing its momentum. The show won the 2022 Tony Award for Best Musical Score and continues to reign supreme in New York’s Theater District.

While initially, a musical retelling of King Henry VIII’s six wives might not seem destined for success, the show’s powerful pop music, extravagant Tudor-meets-modern-day costumes, and the dynamic performances of its female leads keep the audience enthralled. “There’s people literally screaming, crying. How could I look at that and not be excited?” says Olivia Donalson, whose portrayal of Anna of Cleves is nothing short of powerful.

The premise centers around a competition among the six wives to see who was mistreated the worst by Henry VIII. Creators Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss modeled each character after contemporary pop icons. For instance, Ann Boleyn, played by Storm Lever, draws inspiration from Miley Cyrus, Avril Lavigne, and Lily Allen, while Donalson’s Anna channels Nicki Minaj and Rihanna. This blend of history, female empowerment, humor, and pop culture creates a uniquely engaging experience.

The show’s costumes, makeup, and music evoke the grandeur of modern stadium concerts. The “SIX: Live on Opening Night Broadway” album debuted at Number 1 on the Billboard charts and amassed over 100 million streams worldwide.

Parade spoke with Lever, Donalson, and their castmates Khaila Wilcoxon (Catherine of Aragon), Garbiela Carillo (Catherine Parr), and Jasmine Forsburge (Jane Seymour) to get a backstage look at their pre-show rituals during the busy summer tourist season. Didi Romero, who plays Katherine Howard, was unavailable.

Khaila Wilcoxon [Catherine of Aragon] mentioned her detailed pre-show routine, involving arriving two hours early, doing her makeup, and warming up her voice and body. “I listen to a lot of Beyoncé beforehand too,” she added.

Jasmine Forsburge [Jane Seymour] shared that she often does a group warm-up with Storm Lever, especially when performing together. Lever, who plays Ann Boleyn, revealed, “I usually turn on our little warm-up to ensure our voices are ready. I get here disgustingly early, like two hours before our show starts.”

Olivia Donalson [Anna of Cleves] prefers a more laid-back approach, watching television while doing her makeup and enjoying a Nespresso. “I should consider warming up, but I do feel like I’m in good spirits, so that’s most of the battle,” she joked.

Garbiela Carillo [Catherine Parr] varies her routine based on how busy her day is, sometimes arriving 45 minutes before the show starts and multitasking her preparation.

Another pre-show tradition involves the six actresses gathering behind the curtain to exchange encouraging words. “It’s a great way for us to check in, be honest about where we’re at, and support each other as we go on the journey together,” Lever explained. Forsburge added that these words, initially “love” and “light,” sometimes change to “ease” or “conquer” after a rigorous week of performances.

To protect their voices, Lever emphasized the importance of staying hydrated and avoiding excessive talking. Forsburge mentioned keeping a humidifier at their makeup station to maintain moisture in the air.

On maintaining high energy during shows, Wilcoxon credited the audience as the “seventh queen,” whose energy the performers reciprocate. Lever, a night owl, saves her peak energy for the performance, adding, “We always joke that the show is like inviting your friends to watch you do a 90-minute cardio class.”

Donalson and Carillo reflected on how the upbeat nature of the show helps maintain their high energy levels. “Some days are better than others, but the show is so high-energy that there’s no option but to stay engaged,” said Donalson. Carillo described the audience’s excitement as a significant motivator.

The costumes play a vital role in the show, with each queen’s outfit reflecting her character’s unique traits. Wilcoxon appreciated her Beyoncé-inspired costume, while Lever found the plastic costumes visually striking but challenging to move in. Forsburge explained how her Seymour corset requires adapting physical movements to the costume’s constraints.

Each costume holds historical symbolism. “Greensleeves” inspired Ann Boleyn’s green outfit, symbolizing envy. Carillo pointed out details like chokers for the beheaded queens and historically inspired elements that complement their characters.

Getting into character involves a mix of personal routines and symbolic actions. Forsburge described putting on her Seymour costume as donning armor, while Lever listens to music to channel the show’s pop diva atmosphere. Carillo draws on her deep understanding of Catherine Parr, and Donalson appreciates bringing her personality to the stage.

For aspiring Broadway performers, Wilcoxon advised, “Continue to be your most authentic self. Your path is only going to be your path.”

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Source: Parade