Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky takes on the role of Catherine of Aragon in homegrown British hit musical SIX, written by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, which has extended its record-breaking reign at the Vaudeville Theatre until April 2024.
The show was recently crowned London’s Best West End Show WhatsonStage Awards. Received by members of the West End cast at the prestigious ceremony at the Prince of Wales Theatre, the award marked the second time SIX has received the highly-coveted award, where it continues to play to sold out houses at each performance at the Vaudeville Theatre.
The current cast members of SIX are Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky (Aragon), Baylie Carson (Boleyn), Claudia Kariuki (Seymour), Dionne Ward-Anderson (Cleves), Koko Basigara (Howard), Roxanne Couch (Parr) and the incredible alternate performers Monique Ashe-Palmer, Danielle Rose, Leah Vassell, Rachel Rawlinson and Esme Rothero.
SIX can be seen live on stage at London’s Vaudeville Theatre, the Lena Horne Theatre in New York, across the UK on its current sell-out, record-breaking tour, with two concurrent North American tours, a recent Australian tour and forthcoming productions due to play Korea, Holland and Canada.
How does it feel to be starring in the global phenomenon that is Six?
It feels amazing!! To be honest, this year has felt like a blur and not much like real life! It hits me sometimes at the stage door or at random times on stage and I think to myself, wow I literally manifested this dream! I feel honoured to be a part of the queendom.
What was it about the show that made you want to be a part of it?
For me, it was always the pop star element of the show. I think every kid’s young dream was to be a pop star, but for me that was all I wanted to be growing up. I also loved musical theatre and had been going to class etc, but I hadn’t seen a show that combined the two; so, when SIX emerged I knew I had to find a way to do it somehow!!
You’re playing Catherine of Aragon, what are you loving about the role?
There are many things I love about playing Catherine of Aragon, her sass, her strength, she’s quietly confident and courageous. She opens the show, so although that’s a huge weight to carry, I couldn’t think of a song more suited to me than ‘No Way’. I feel so lucky to be able to sing it every night!! I guess equally, knowing that Catherine of Aragon is based on Beyoncé is also a very key element as I’m a huge fan!
What’s it like working with such a tight-knit ensemble cast?
This is the smallest ensemble I’ve ever worked with and because of the size, you become family. We spend more time together than with anyone else, so it’s lovely. I’ve created so many amazing bonds and friends for life.
How does the role compare to other jobs you’ve had in the West End?
I like to think that with every role I’ve ever played, I take some of them with me for the next one. Technically though, in terms of the demand and stamina it could be compared to Tina!! When I first learnt ‘No Way’ in rehearsals, I sung it at home whilst skipping to get my stamina up, and I did this with a lot of the Tina songs, so the preparation was very similar!! They’re both superheros in my opinion, so I’m incredibly lucky.
Do you have a favourite moment in the show?
My favourite moment in the show is the ‘I Don’t Need Your Love remix. I absolutely love that section!! It’s so powerful and musically my favourite to sing as an ensemble. If you haven’t seen the show yet, I won’t give too much away but I call it the lightbulb moment!! It’s so much fun to do.
What’s surprised you most about being part of the Queendom?
I wouldn’t say surprisingly exactly, but for me the way the queendom champions alternates/swings is extremely special and something that should be celebrated!!
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see SIX?
Be prepared to laugh, cry and sing all in the same breath!!! It’s a great night out. Come see us!
