
A brand new exhibition inspired by SIX the Musical, Queens, has begun its reign at The Lowry in Salford. The free exhibition – curated by The Lowry – is the first of its kind and is produced with the support of SIX and its creators Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss.
The word ‘Queen’ has become a positive term of self-reference, and this exhibition asks the question ‘What kind of Queen are you?’ (you can even take an interactive quiz to find out) and celebrates ‘everyday’ queens of every description. Running from July 20 to November 3 in the Galleries of the Salford arts venue, Queens: The Exhibition features scripts, film and memorabilia from the creators, dazzling costumes from the production and plenty of immersive activities to get involved in.
What to expect at the free SIX The Musical-inspired exhibition
The exhibition will start with a celebration of the hit musical SIX and taking centre stage will be two of Gabriella Slade’s iconic costumes from the show: those of Catherine of Aragon and Katherine Howard – a first for the North West. The costumes will be displayed alongside a newly-commissioned model of the SIX stage set, designed by Emma Bailey.
It will also feature new commissions from local legend, The Mancorialist, Instagram cartoonist Lily O’Farrell and from Manchester-based artist, Johnny Humes, whose remarkable new painting throws a spotlight on Fanny and Stella, two young men who shocked Victorian England. Plus, a Tudor-esque house inside the exhibition will be filled with UV light for some magical opportunities for visitors to draw their own pictures.
There’s the chance to sing your heart out in a sound booth, and even a huge oversized gothic throne for that essential regal selfie. And there are mini-Queens hidden throughout the galleries to find. There will also be venue-wide free learning and engagement activities based around the Queens theme for the duration of the exhibition’s run, including arts & crafts, silent discos and dance workshops.
Entry to Queens: The Exhibition inspired by SIX The Musical is free but timeslots are required, which can be booked in advance here. Entry may also be available on arrival at The Lowry – however this will be subject to demand on the day.
The Lowry’s Galleries are open Tuesday to Friday 11am-5pm and Saturday & Sunday 10am-5pm. During the run of SIX, the Galleries will be open later from 5pm-7.30pm on selected dates.
The Queen’s Head
During the exhibition, The Lowry’s Pier Eight Bar has been transformed into The Queens Head. Whether you’re craving a classic beef burger or a comforting bowl of soup, the bar has plenty of food and drink fit for a queen. The Queens Head will be serving up hot drinks, delicious cakes, soft drinks, and themed cocktails inspired by the Queens from SIX. Open from morning till late, it’s perfect for a royal pit-stop or to round off your day at The Lowry.
Adding to the Queens theme at The Lowry is a Queen’s Afternoon Tea, fit for royalty. Enjoy finger sandwiches, homemade scones, and royal sweet treats at the stunning waterside setting. Served at 12pm and 2pm, there are afternoon tea options available for adults and young royals, with the option to add a welcome cocktail or mocktail. To book or for any dietary needs, call 0161 876 2043.
SIX The Musical at The Lowry
From Tudor Queens to Pop Princesses, SIX The Musical follows the six wives of Henry VIII as they take to the mic to tell their own personal tales, remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into an 80-minute celebration of 21st century girl power. With a catchy musical score that blends contemporary pop with historical narrative, the show has garnered critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase.
Since its early days as a student production in a 100-seat room at the 2017 Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the show has fast become a global musical phenomenon. It first came to The Lowry at Christmas 2018, at the end of the show’s first ever UK tour.
The exhibition’s run coincides with a visit by SIX The Musical to The Lowry’s Lyric Theatre from August 13 to September 1. Book your tickets for the fantastic musical here.