We catch up with Reca Oakley who takes on the role of Anna of Cleves, the queen who "got the house" in the smash-hit musical SIX.
Reca Oakley. Headshot provided by production.
SIX has been dazzling audiences since its West End debut in 2019 at the Arts Theatre, quickly becoming a cultural phenomenon before settling into its permanent home at the Vaudeville Theatre in 2021. The musical reimagines the lives of Henry VIII's six wives as a pop concert, blending history with infectious songs and empowering performances. Making her West End debut in the production, Oakley shares insights into playing one of history's most fascinating women.
Coming from America, what drew you to working on the West End production of Six?
Not only did I want to come to London for the theatre culture in general, but I was drawn to Six the Musical in London because this is where the legacy began. I’m truly honored to be apart of the West End Family.
Do you find you relate to Anne of Cleaves personally and how have you brought your own energy to the character?
Of course! Anna of Cleves has a confidence and freedom to her that I can absolutely relate to. I try to bring a level of joy every day so that I can exude these characteristics on a daily basis.
What is the most challenging part of working on a production like Six?
It’s a very physically demanding show and could be quite tough on the body, especially doing the show almost every night. I try to go to the gym for strength and most importantly recovery!
What was the rehearsal process like for this production?
We rehearsed for about 5 weeks. It’s a difficult process merging choreography, harmonies, and acting together in such a short period of time but it's quite rewarding in the end when all comes together.
The music in Six is incredibly popular with musical theatre fans - what’s your favourite song to perform, and why?
I think my favourite song is honestly the Megamix because it’s a song where everyone involved in the performance including the band gets to shine and have their moment. It’s a beautiful thing to be a part of.
How does it feel to be part of such a female-driven production, both on and off stage? Especially when it’s so diverse too! Is that important to the messages and audiences that see this show do you think?
That’s the thing that drew me to the musical in the first place. We have all types of women being their most empowered self stepping on the stage and reclaiming their power. It’s such an important message and you can tell how inspired the young people in the audience are by the smiles on their faces. It’s so rewarding to be a part of a musical like Six.
What messages do you hope audiences take away from your portrayal of Anne of Cleves?
Confidence and beauty start from within. Stay true to who you are and never let anyone else define you!
Has performing in this musical changed the way you view the historical figures involved, particularly the six wives of Henry VIII?
Being a part of this musical really helped me understand just how strong these Queens actually were.
If you could take on a different queen in the production, who would you play and why?
I would love to play Seymour. I would love to tap into her vulnerability and her playfulness.
Finally, why should people see Six The Musical?
It’s a show where you can laugh, cry, dance, and have some fun while learning a bit more about these historical queens. Come on down to the Vaudeville Theatre! We’ll see you there.
Six is playing at the Vaudeville Theatre until 30 November 2025.
