Performed at the Tobacco Factory, Bristol; review by Elena Mozzato
This summer got seriously hilarious at the Tobacco Factory as it hosted The Six Wives of Henry VIII. Directed by Craig Edwards, Bristolian actors Howard Coggins and Stu McLoghlin work their guts out in this fortunate attempt to convey the spirit of Henry´s reign and passions in an irreverent comedy format.
The main plot is cleverly framed. Behind the Tudor history we have Stu and Howard, two actors who struggle to impress the critics and seek their last chance.
And where do they get the inspiration that hopefully will turn around their careers? Well, from a rather obvious resemblance… And so it happens that two actors alone take the audience through the marital life of Henry VIII (played by Howard) and his unfortunate wives (all played by Stu) and deliver one of the most amusing theatrical experiences you can have.
By the time the performance ends, you will have laughed out loud at the daft and priceless comedy bites, learnt something about the impetuous king, and listened to some great live music – the “Married, divorced, beheaded” piece is still joyfully playing in my head. But above all, you will have witnessed an exciting piece of history storytelling.
And you wish Henry VIII may have had a couple additional wives, because you simply want more of it.
The tour continues with a handful of dates.