Spotlight on 'SIX' with Meg Dixon-Brasil

As part of a series celebrating some of the West End's longest-running shows, we speak to Meg Dixon-Brasil, who is a super swing in SIX, the musical that puts a new spin on Henry VIII's six wives.

Summary

• Meg Dixon-Brasil in a super swing in SIX the Musical
• The musical has been running in the West End for six years
• Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss's show premiered at Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2017

SIX the Musical has repeatedly shown its the little (but mighty) show that could. Since premiering at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2017, Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss's show about the six wives of Henry VIII has reached West End — and international — success, and has now been running in London for over six years.

Meg Dixon-Brasil is a super swing in the musical, which means she covers all of Henry VIII's six wives. The English-Portuguese performer has been starring as a swing in the hit show since 2023.

Dixon-Brasil speaks to LondonTheatre.co.uk about the enduring power of a story that celebrates the sisterhood.

Book SIX tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk

Why do you think SIX has lasted for so long in the West End?

I think SIX has lasted so long because it’s really unique. It taps into something that feels both empowering and genuinely really fun. It reframes something both British audiences and tourists know so much about — Henry VIII — but by letting his wives tell the story in a high-energy, witty, glittery extravaganza. Beyond the message of the show, the pop-concert style makes it so different to other shows people have seen or expect from London’s West End.

SIX invites the audience to be part of the experience, which is really special and unique. The music and writing is brilliant and you won't leave the Vaudeville without having had a laugh or a boogie. It’s a combination of empowerment, humour and joy, and people really connect with that. It’s not just a show, it’s a celebration, and I think that’s why people keep coming back.

What is the best audience reaction you have seen to SIX?

Our audiences are iconic! We’ve got families, girl groups, theatre kids, people in full-on costumes all in the same row. They’re loud in the best way and occasionally someone knows the choreography better than I do! We’re so lucky to have such enthusiastic audiences, they make us feel like we’re real-life pop stars and it’s so special. On one occasion we actually had two minions — yes, minions — sitting in the front row. They got up and danced with us and it will go down in history as one of our funniest shows. Shout out to the minions — we love you!

What is your favourite moment in SIX?

My favourite moment is our final number "SIX". It’s the first point in the show where all six queens stop competing for the spotlight and come together to show Henry who’s boss. It’s a massive burst of energy where we all unite. We encourage the audience to join in, dance with us and everyone gets to live their pop-star fantasy. It’s just pure joy.

What is a little-known secret about performing in SIX?

Something a lot of people don’t know about this show is that each queen is actually based on a real pop star! Whether it's their costume or their song, or both, each queen is inspired by a legendary pop icon who has close ties to the real historical figure. I won’t give away who’s who, but it's something to keep an eye out for next time you come.

What it's like covering all six of the wives as a super swing?

Being a super swing means that I cover all six queens and can go on for any of them at any given moment. It’s chaotic, challenging and honestly the coolest job ever. Everyone always asks me which is my favourite queen to play, and my honest answer is I can’t decide! I love them all individually for so many different reasons, so being a swing in this show is the best job ever because I never have to decide who’s my favourite — I get to play them all!

It’s definitely a high-pressure job but it’s the best kind of pressure. It keeps my brain working and keeps the show fresh, especially having been in SIX for over two years. Switching between tracks, sometimes even playing two queens in one day, is so fun and rewarding. It’s safe to say I’m never bored and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to play every iconic leading lady in this incredible show. I never thought my brain would be capable of it, but it’s shown me I can exceed even my own expectations.

What do you hope audiences take away from SIX?

I hope audiences walk away from the show feeling totally empowered and uplifted. SIX is all about reclaiming your story, recognising your own worth and having a bit of fun while doing so. Mostly, we want them to feel the joy of the show - the music, the humour, the sisterhood. At its heart, SIX is just good fun! And that’s what theatre is all about.

Book SIX tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk

Photo credit: Meg Dixon-Brasil in SIX the Musical. (Photo by Pamela Raith)