One Question (Six Times) With the Cast of “Six”

A chat with six queens from one of Broadway's hottest shows

Neil Patrick Harris is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Wondercade. In his spare time he also acts — fairly well, too, as his Tony and Emmy Awards can attest.

March 29, 2023 7:09 pm

One of the hottest musicals on Broadway is the show that almost didn’t happen. Six, in which the six wives of King Henry VIII form a pop supergroup and then take turns making the case that they should be the lead singer, was set to open in New York for the first time on March 12 of 2020 — which happens to be the exact date the Great White Way went dark due to COVID closures.

I recently attended the show with my husband and kids, and we absolutely adored it. It’s got everything: wit, spectacle, humor, a catchy, contemporary songbook, and a distinctly modern sensibility that co-opts one of history’s most salacious tales to comment on everything from beheadings to dating apps.

But what makes the show work is the stunning, diverse cast of six principals, who channel everyone from Ariana to Adele to Beyoncé to bring it all to life. I asked each of them to answer a single question (hence the “One Question” headline). Here’s what they said.

Six seems like the perfect theatre date night: 80 minutes, no intermission, biographical-yet-contemporary, historical-yet-hysterical, all female cast. Yet I find most guys aren’t very accustomed to theater etiquette. So, here’s my question: What’s an insider tip for a gentleman taking a date to a musical?

Abby Mueller (Jane Seymour): Six is the perfect Broadway date night! First and foremost, follow all COVID protocols set forth by the theater. Also, please tip all the servers, drivers, childcare workers, bartenders, etc. that contribute to your night out as generously as you are able. The arts and culture sector is a critical part of New York’s economic ecosystem, and it’s been hit hard by the pandemic, so let’s all help support each other to come back!

Samantha Pauly (Katherine Howard): Know your theater etiquette ahead of time! Unwrap your snacks before the show starts, and don’t use your phone or talk loudly during the performance. Research the show so you know what to expect, or surprise your date with some fun facts. There’s nothing worse than seeing a musical with someone who openly dislikes musicals, so put in a bit of effort to at least seem like you’re having a good time.

Brittney Mack (Anna of Cleves): Actually, I find the guys I know have pretty good theater etiquette. But I agree with doing research. Make sure you know what you are going to see. I think having some inside-scoop details will earn you points with your date.

Andrea Macasaet (Anne Boleyn): And don’t be afraid to show your date that you’re actually having a great time — because you are guaranteed to have a great time! Don’t hold back from laughing, screaming or dancing! Get ready to be educated and to rock out. Oh, and use the bathroom before the show starts.

Anna Uzele (Catherine Parr): Yes, it’s all about fun! Bedazzled, dancing monarchs might not have been your first choice, but we dare you to let us change your mind! Uncross your arms, unfurrow your brow, and you may find that celebrating womanhood gets you major brownie points for the evening.

Adrianna Hicks (Catherine of Aragon): I agree. A tip for a gentleman taking a date to a musical — Six or any other show — would have to be his intentionality. For example, if his date loves a good laugh, do the research to find the top comedies of the season. (Don’t go in blind with picking a show, or it might not turn out so well.) Also, make sure to dress for the occasion! Live theatre is something to be celebrated and respected, and what better way to do those things than to show up looking fabulous?

Fantastic answers. They’d better book, as they’re sure to score. (Book, score? For a musical? Bravo, me!) Quick follow-up question: From 1-100, what number am I thinking of? FYI: I’ve actually committed, and there is a prize for whoever gets closest.

Abby: 57. Samantha: 46. Brittney: 63. Andrea: 79. Anna: 73. Adrianna: 57

My number was 86 (natch) so Andrea, look forward to something sweet at the stage door this week. Thanks, ladies. Or should I say, Werk, Queens!