Broadway's beloved musical 'SIX' finds itself at the center of a storm, not of its own making, but of the ugliness of online hate. Following the exciting announcement of its new cast, which includes the groundbreaking casting of openly trans performer Dylan Mulvaney, the show's social media platforms were unfortunately inundated with a wave of bigoted and hateful comments. This unfortunate turn of events has led the producers to take swift action, condemning the behavior and reinforcing their commitment to an inclusive environment.
'There is no room for bigotry in the queendom,' the production boldly declared, a sentiment that resonates deeply with the show's celebratory spirit. The producers have opted to temporarily restrict access to their X (formerly Twitter) account, a move made necessary by the overwhelming negativity. They've characterized the online attacks as outright 'bullying,' emphasizing that while they cherish passionate engagement, there's a clear line between enthusiasm and abuse.
'The protection, safety, and support of the Six cast has always been, and remains, our highest priority,' a statement from the production read. They've unequivocally condemned bullying in all its forms and are dedicated to maintaining a respectful and supportive atmosphere for everyone involved. The excitement for the incoming cast is palpable, with the producers eagerly anticipating their debut.
But here's where it gets truly inspiring... Amidst the negativity, Dylan Mulvaney herself shared a powerful reflection on her social media. Ahead of her first rehearsal, she spoke about the significance of stepping onto a Broadway stage as Anne Boleyn, especially as a trans person in a world that can feel challenging. She called it a 'miracle' to be able to perform in a show that so beautifully celebrates femininity. Mulvaney acknowledged her privilege and platform but also shared a message of resilience, stating she would endure any public scrutiny if it meant reaching her dream.
And this is the part most people miss... Mulvaney's message extended to queer and trans youth watching, offering a beacon of hope: 'you can literally do anything.' She encouraged them to pursue what brings them joy, even if it requires a fight or a longer journey, assuring them that countless people are cheering them on, herself included.
The new lineup is set to dazzle audiences starting February 16th. Dylan Mulvaney will be joined by Abigail Barlow as Katherine Howard. Returning favorites include Adrianna Hicks as Catherine of Aragon and Anna Uzele as Catherine Parr, alongside Olivia Donalson reprising her role as Anna of Cleves. The role of Jane Seymour is still to be announced. They will be stepping into the formidable shoes of the current cast, who will take their final bows on February 15th.
It's fascinating to see how online fame can translate to the stage. Both Mulvaney and Barlow have garnered significant attention on TikTok, with Barlow's unofficial 'Bridgerton' musical and Mulvaney's 'Days of Girlhood' series gaining widespread popularity. However, their roots are firmly planted in musical theatre, with both having received formal training and honed their craft through various productions. Mulvaney's recent Off-Broadway debut and Barlow's work on the 'Moana 2' soundtrack highlight their established artistic credentials.
'SIX—the musical' has been a Broadway sensation since its opening on October 3, 2021, at the Lena Horne Theatre. The show, which reimagines the lives of Henry VIII's six wives, has received critical acclaim, including a 2022 Tony Award for Best Original Score.
Now, I'm curious to hear your thoughts: Do you believe that online platforms should have more stringent moderation policies to prevent the spread of hate speech? Or is the current approach of individual producers and platforms sufficient? Let us know in the comments below!
