By Stephi Wild from BroadwayWorld

SIX the Musical, the global phenomenon which has taken the world by storm, has announced seasons at The Civic in Auckland and Newcastle’s Civic Theatre in 2025. The Tony Award-winning electrifying musical captivates audiences with its innovative and empowering take on history, redefining the boundaries of musical theatre and engaging audiences of all ages. The Australasian production is currently playing at Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre, before making its way to Sydney, Brisbane and Auckland from February 27 2025 and then to Newcastle from April 10 2025. In Auckland the production will headline the Te Ahurei Toi o Tāmaki Auckland Arts Festival.

Tickets go on sale September 26.

Producer, Louise Withers, said they were thrilled to be bringing this innovative and influential musical to Auckland and Newcastle.

By Jesse Chaffey from https://scenestr.com.au/

A musical. . . A pop show. . . A celebration of female empowerment. Whatever you call it, ‘SIX’ is a thrilling theatrical experience, and one unlike any other.

By now, ‘SIX’ has a huge following globally, and it’s not difficult to see why.

This 80-minute firecracker of a production is so much fun – it’s easy to digest, has a short but sweet soundtrack of total bangers, and a talented cast to bring it all to life.

If you’re more of a pop music lover than a musical theatre nut, ‘SIX’ is definitely the show for you. There’s a real sweet-spot of a balance between the two, providing audiences with narrative context and enough information about each character, only before it bursts into toe-tapping tunes which belong on radio.

Interactions with the crowd are reminiscent of pop girls in arenas, bringing the audience in on the show a lot more than your average night at the theatre and totally shattering the fourth wall which usually exists in this space.

My favourites from the night are Deirdre Khoo as Anne Boleyn, and Zelia Rose Kitoko as Anna Of Cleves. Deirdre’s song ‘Don’t Lose Ur Head’ is perfectly quirky and sassy, and Zelia Rose’s track is like a fusion of ‘Fancy’ by Charli xcx and Iggy Azalea, and ‘Worth It’ by Fifth Harmony. . . Making it a complete ear worm which is delivered with a delicious helping of attitude.

While I had my favourites, there’s no denying all six of these performers are absolutely fantastic. Their on-stage chemistry as a group makes all the difference – sharp quips shared between them as they fight for their place in the band are hilarious, natural and biting. . . Prompting visceral audience responses like ‘oooooooh’. . . ‘awwwww’. . . And of course, shrieks of laughter.

In the current political climate, a show like ‘SIX’, which sees women coming together to make something beautiful from their trauma, feels incredibly necessary and appreciated. While it’s obviously historical parody to the most camp degree, its messaging is grounded in real female camaraderie and the positive impact that can have when harnessed.

‘SIX’ is equal parts fun, silly, and important. With catchy songs and a slick, considered script, it’s an 80-minute joyride through herstory and female power.

By Andrew Bistak from impulsegamer.com

The globally acclaimed SIX the Musical returns to Melbourne and is currently playing at the Comedy Theatre in Exhibition Street. For the uninitiated, SIX the Musical is written by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss and follows the story of the tyrannical King Henry VIII’s lesser known wives. Stepping out of the shadows of this “mad” king, we see his wives become pop stars as the audience is taken on a musical rollercoaster that puts a unique twist on these historical figures.

Selfies? Dating apps? It’s all part of the show, so don’t expect the words of William Shakespeare turned to music but rather, SIX melds Tudor history (or her story) with modernity that is laced with social commentary, including themes such as misogyny and infidelity which was rife during the time of Henry VIII. The wives even give us an informative and thoroughly entertaining snapshot into their stint as Queens but what makes this performance so great is the onset chemistry among the cast.
​
The wives of Henry VIII are played spectacularly by Kimberley Hodgson (Catherine of Aragon), Deirdre Khoo (Anne Boleyn), Loren Hunter (Jane Seymour), Zelia Rose Kitoko (Anna of Cleves), Chelsea Dawson (Katherine Howard) and Giorgia Kennedy (Catherine Parr) who bring their real-world counterparts to life in a truly astonishing performance. Also supporting their performances are the amazing costumes and lighting that creates this true rock atmosphere of the Tudor era. As a result, it’s quite an empowering performance with its strong feminine energy.

There’s also a live female band who are equally as impressive and really blast the music throughout the Comedy Theatre, particularly the different styles that accompany the songs. And the songs? Combining history, social commentary to music works particularly well for SIX the Musical and the majority of numbers resonated well with the audience, especially Deirdre Khoo’s number Don’t Lose Ur Head which was quite infectious and very hilarious. In terms of pacing, each Queen has their own unique song with the vocal backing from the other Queens as they tell their story to the audience as we learn who was…
Divorced
Beheaded
Died
Divorced
Beheaded… with the above taken from the first song, Ex-Wives.

As to a favourite performer? That is a really tough question because all six performers were fantastic but each had a different emotion and personality that they brought to their characters which made them shine. However the cheekiness and sassiness of Deirdre Khoo cannot be beaten. Vocally, the six cannot be faulted. Additionally the choreography once again made this musical more concert than musical which suited the story very well, especially with the different styles.

Although the sets are limited, the lighting really makes up for this, especially the song performed by Zelia Rose Kitoko with an amalgamation of Daft Punk meets the German homeland of Anna of Cleves, including a hilarious swipe left, swipe right moment.


While some aspects of SIX the Musical are dark, the story merges humour to help tone down these themes and more importantly, the Queens get their Happily Ever After… well 5-minutes worth! With hoots and shouts from the audience, the opening night of SIX the Musical was a success at the Comedy Theatre with the show ending with a standing ovation.
​

Final Thoughts?
It’s easy to see why SIX the Musical has become a global phenomenon that has been seen by over 3.5 million people worldwide that also has a string of awards as well. With clever lyrics and phenomenal performances, SIX the Musical is definitely a must see performance!

​

SIX the Musical, the global phenomenon which has taken the world by storm has today confirmed its new Australian cast! The Tony Award-winning electrifying musical enjoyed record-breaking seasons across the country and now, following huge demand and anticipation SIX will reign again at Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre from 2nd August 2024, the Theatre Royal Sydney from 25th October 2024 and at QPAC’s Playhouse in Brisbane from 2nd January 2025.
​
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. Audiences are taken on a journey through the lives of Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anna of Cleves, Katherine Howard, and Catherine Parr, each telling their own story and reclaiming their own narrative.

Taking on the role of Henry VIII’s first wife, the sassy Catherine of Aragon, will be Kimberley Hodgson fresh from playing the iconic role of Anita in Handa’s West Side Story. Kimberley has also graced stages in recent Australian productions of Miss Saigon, Mary Poppins and Frozen.

Joining the cast as the rule breaking second wife Anne Boleyn will be WAAPA graduate Deirdre Khoo who has just completed the acclaimed 50th Anniversary Australian Tour of The Rocky Horror Show playing Janet Weiss.

Loren Hunter returns to the role of the loyal third wife Jane Seymour having blown audiences away across Australia in previous tours. SIX has enhanced her unfaltering musical theatre career including roles in Strictly Ballroom the Musical and King Kong the Musical.

The independent Anna of Cleves will be played by Zelia Rose Kitoko. Zelia is a multifaceted actor, singer, dancer, and solo creative artist having toured worldwide with Dita Von Teese’s acclaimed touring review and made her musical theatre debut in the Australian production of Hamilton in 2020.

The role of the playful fifth wife, Katherine Howard will once again be played by Chelsea Dawson. Chelsea made an incredible impact in the role on the most recent tour of SIX across Australia and has since understudied the lead role of Sophie in the Australian tour of MAMMA MIA! the Musical.

Giorgia Kennedy joins the cast in the role of the empowering Catherine Parr. Giorgia’s previous musical theatre roles include understudying the lead role of Juliet in & Juliet and also understudying the lead role of Frankie in Jagged Little Pill.

Joining the SIX Australian Queens are the extremely talented swings made up of Gabriella Boumford, Thalia Smith, and returning Dance Captain/Swing Chiara Assetta and Resident 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 Ann Metry on Bass.

In crowning the new Queens, producer Lousie Withers said:

The smash-hit musical, SIX, continues its unstoppable journey as it captivates audiences around the globe with its innovative and empowering take on history. Since its premiere in 2017, SIX has become a cultural phenomenon, redefining the boundaries of musical theatre and engaging audiences of all ages.
Since its debut at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, 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, taking London by storm, and has continued to garner international recognition with productions in Australia, Canada, the United States, Europe and South Korea.

Each year SIX is seen by over 3.5 million people worldwide and currently has over 1.5 million followers on social media across the world. The show has received over 32 million views on TikTok alone, and the original Studio Cast Recording has been certified gold and been streamed over 600 million times. SIX has won 35 major international awards, including two Tony Awards for Best Original Score and Best Costume Design, and a Grammy nomination for Best Musical Theatre Album. Notably SIX author and Co-Director Lucy Moss is the youngest female-identifying person to direct a Broadway musical in over 40 years.
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 discussions.

As SIX continues its global journey, it cements its place as a groundbreaking musical that pushes boundaries and inspires audiences of all ages. It’s a high-octane, fun-filled 80 minutes of mega-watt entertainment.

MELBOURNE – COMEDY THEATRE
From August 2024

SYDNEY –THEATRE ROYAL SYDNEY
From October 2024

BRISBANE – PLAYHOUSE THEATRE, QPAC
From January 2025
​
TICKETS ON SALE MARCH 2024 WWW.SIXTHEMUSICAL.COM.AU

​Taken from AussieTheatre

From @PerformingArtistsCompany​

We can’t wait to have the amazing DEIRDRE KHOO join us in July to polish vocals within our upcoming @capezio Young Industry Project production of A CHORUS LINE: Teen Edition 🤩🤩

Deirdre is currently touring with the 50th Anniversary Tour of THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW in the leading role of JANET WEISS! ❤️‍🔥

The 50th Anniversary production of iconic Rock ‘n’ Roll musical The Rocky Horror Show has kicked off global celebrations at Theatre Royal Sydney thrilling audiences and critics alike, and in an Australian first, will be broadcast live from the stage of Theatre Royal Sydney into cinemas across the country for ONE NIGHT ONLY on Thursday 30 March.

On the Couch with Deirdre Khoo9 February 2023 On the Couch

Who is Deirdre Khoo?
I am an actor, singer, musician, and most importantly – an escape room fanatic! I was born and raised in Singapore until I turned 16, which was when I moved to Australia alone to pursue a career in the arts. I am a proud Peranakan-Chinese, and as Sandra Oh said It’s an honour just to be Asian.

What would you do differently from what you do now?
I wouldn’t change anything that I have now! I am so grateful to have been through what I’ve gone through and without those things, I would not be the same person I am today. If (maybe in a parallel universe) I had to go down another path in life, I think I would’ve been a neurosurgeon. I was fascinated with the functions of the brain as a young teen and I might’ve gone down that route if I wasn’t so passionate about performing.

Who inspires you and why?
Many, many people. However, the person that inspires me the most is my grandmother. She grew up in a culture that primarily had women in the kitchen and doing domestic chores, but instead of letting it bog her down, she used it to be the best in her craft & became respected for it. She is one of the strongest women I know in my life and I will never meet a woman as resilient & as brave as her. With that, I am in awe of her everyday.

In terms of artistically, there are many singers and artists in my life that I have drawn inspiration from. I look up to artists who are constantly working hard to better themselves in one way or another, an example would be So Hyang (a South Korean singer).

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I am really passionate about diversity and inclusivity within the theatre & arts industry, using new and refreshing ideas to evoke crucial thoughts from the audience. I believe that art reflects life, and vice versa.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
I was just in Scotland at the end of 2022, and I found it the most spectacular place. We went up to the Scottish Highlands, where Isle of Skye is and saw the most breath-taking views. It was something I’d never experienced in my life. I went during winter (low season) and found it so striking – I can’t imagine going there in peak Summer, when it would just be even more gorgeous. As you can tell, I’m a bit of a nature junkie!

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I will definitely get them to come catch Rocky Horror, of course! There’s absolutely no doubt that it would be a fun time. I’d also love for them, on a beautiful day, to take a trip up to the Northern beaches, or take the ferry out to Manly beach. If they’re not beach people, head up to the Blue Mountains and take in the surroundings.

What are you currently reading?
I shall let you in on a secret… I don’t read that often! I wish I did, really! But I can never get through the first few pages of a book, and hence I go to TV series and audiobooks! THAT being said, there is one book that I always go back to and I have read it maybe a hundred times – I exaggerate – Sherlock Holmes. I am a huge Sir Arthur Conan Doyle fan… Did you know that Sherlock was modelled after his actual professor at Edinburgh University, Dr Joseph Bell? Fun facts!

What are you currently listening to?
My Spotify says it’s the Live Original Cast Recording of Hadestown and Sammy Rae & the Friends!

Happiness is?
The little things in life. And never taking them for granted.

What does the future hold for you?
The big question! I don’t know! So many things I can imagine. As many aspirations I have for the future, I kinda just want to appreciate things that come my way, one at a time. Life is so short, and it goes so quickly. I can only work as hard as I can… and come what may!
​

Deirdre will star as Janet in the 50th Anniversary production of The Rocky Horror Show – which plays the Theatre Royal Sydney from 14 February, before playing the Adelaide Festival Centre from 13 April; and the Athenaeum Theatre, Melbourne from 18 May 2023. For more information, visit: www.rockyhorror.com.au for details.

Wise up, Janet Weiss! Deirdre joins the company of Rocky Horror Australian Tour in the 50th Anniversary production in the titular role of Janet.

From StageWhispers:
A brand-new Australian tour will kick off global celebrations in honour of iconic Rock ‘N’ Roll musical The Rocky Horror Show as it marks its 50thAnniversary in 2023. The production will open at Theatre Royal Sydney in February 2023 starring Jason Donovan as Frank N Furter and Myf Warhurst as The Narrator. Joining them will be Ellis Dolan as Eddie/Dr Scott, Darcey Eagle as Columbia, Ethan Jones as Brad, Deirdre Khoo as Janet, Loredo Malcolm as Rocky and Henry Rollo as Riff Raff. Further casting will be announced soon.

Tickets on sale from Monday 17th October 10am at rockyhorror.com.au

​


​




From SecretsSydney:
The creative team features director Christopher Luscombe, set designer Hugh Durrant, costume designer Sue Blane and choreographer Nathan M Wright with music by Richard Hartley.
The Rocky Horror Show first premiered in London in 1973 and has since become a fixture on stage around the globe. It has played in over 30 countries with Russell Crowe, Susan Sarandon and Adam Lambert among other actors starring on stage and screen. 

“There is no better fitting place in the world than Australia to launch this 50th Anniversary Tour – The Rocky Horror Show is one of Australia’s most performed and beloved musicals of all time,” writer and creator Richard O’Brien said.
The Rocky Horror Show is the story of Brad and his fiancée Janet, two college kids who meet Dr Frank’n’Furter — an extra-terrestrial mad scientist from the galaxy of Transylvania where people love to party. What follows is tons of fun, adventure, timeless songs and over-the-top outfits.

A Black Swan State Theatre Company of WA and Darlinghurst Theatre Company production.
A Dublin bar, a boy, a girl, and two bruised hearts.

​This international smash hit and eight-time Tony Award-winning musical reminds us of music’s power to connect us all. With songs from the critically-acclaimed film, including the Oscar-winning song ‘Falling Slowly’, this spell-binding and soaring score will have you enchanted in the headiness of unexpected love.

After a sell-out 2019 season, Once, is a breathtaking co-production with Darlinghurst Theatre that will make its debut at The Regal Theatre from 28 May to 12 June.

Once is the only Broadway show to have music that has won the Academy Award, Grammy Award, Olivier Award, the Drama Desk Award four times and the Tony Award eight times!

This critically acclaimed production is directed by Richard Carroll with musical direction by Victoria Falconer. It features stunning dance sequences created by Hamilton’s resident director Amy Campbell. Australian musical theatre stars, Stefanie Caccamo (Oklahoma!, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical)) and Toby Francis (Kinky Boots, High Fidelity), return to the roles as Girl and Guy, inspired by the show’s song writers.

Based on the movie of the same name by John Carney, Once features a book by Enda Walsh, and a spell-binding music & lyrics by Glen Hansard & Markéta Irglová.

Richard Carroll, Director:
Once is a grown-up love story about two hurting people, who help each other to face the challenges, pain, and vital importance of vulnerability as the pathway to connection and fulfilment. The catalyst for the lead characters’ bond is, of course, music. And what music! The songs are beautiful and painful and evocative and funny and truthful and original and unforgettable – and all played live onstage by the incredible cast.

New York Daily News:
Original and unforgettable, Once draws you in from the very first note, grabs you by the heart strings and never lets go.

Limelight:
Led by Carroll, who brings just the right light touch to his direction, everything in the production (choreography, music, lighting, design) combines organically to create something heartfelt, bittersweet, and very special.

Season Details
Venue: The Regal Theatre
Date: 28 May -12 June 2022
For more information click HERE

From AussieTheatre

Deirdre joins Melbourne Shakespeare Company's production of A Midsummers Night's Dream directed by Nicola Bowman as Flute, and a musician in the ensemble playing the piano accordion & guitar.

​A Midsummer Night’s Dream plays at Central Park, Malvern until 13 March 2022. For tickets, click here.