Six’s composer Toby Marlow wound up singing his own songs July 28, when he had to take over the role of Catherine Parr for two sold-out performances at London’s Arts Theatre.
Maiya Quansah-Breed, who usually plays Parr, was out on vacation, but the two standbys were out with colds and the other understudy was on for Jane Seymour. Marlow, who wrote the show with Lucy Moss, joined the cast to present a concert version of the musical.
Six re-envisions the tale of Henry VIII’s six wives—Parr the sixth and final. The musical currently enjoys its production in London as well as a run in Chicago, which plays through August 4. The Chicago production then move’s to A.R.T. in Cambridge, Massachusetts beginning performances August 21.
Marlow thanked his audiences via Twitter, saying:
Today was one of a kind (LOL!��). THANK U to the everyone at the arts, and to all the backstage team and to the QUEENS�� for working together so amazingly today to make sure we could put on a show. you all made me feel so supported, and ur all very nice and talented and I fancy u https://t.co/MhZqJeAD3W
— Toby Marlow (@TheTobyMarlow) July 29, 2019
He spoke of his love for the show and how he always believes the show must go on:
(even if it involves me putting on tight leather pants which, for the sake of the front three rows of today’s audiences, I truly hope never has to happen again lol)
— Toby Marlow (@TheTobyMarlow) July 29, 2019
The London production, directed by Moss and Jaime Armitage, earned five Olivier Award nominations including Best New Musical. London producers said all audience members had been offered free tickets to see a full version of the show at a later date.
