Anne Boleyn The Musical

Review by Jack

⭐⭐⭐⭐

It’s every history-lover’s dream to see the past come alive—and Anne Boleyn: The Musical at Hever Castle does just that. Performed in the very place Anne once called home, this immersive production by Historalia blends musical theatre with living history in a way that simply wouldn’t work on a traditional stage.

From maypole dancing on the lawn to the arrival of the King himself, the world-building is magical. The show begins before the first line is sung, and Hever Castle becomes not just a backdrop but a central character in the story. Audience members are given headsets through which they hear vocals and the orchestral score via immersive sound. While this creates a personal experience, I couldn't help but long for a live orchestra to elevate key emotional moments.

The cast is led by seasoned West End performers including Emily Lane as Anne Boleyn, Mark Goldthorp, Kim Ismay and others—each delivering powerful performances grounded in historical truth. They're supported by a vibrant community ensemble from Kent, whose warmth and presence help breathe life into the Tudor court.

The score itself is serviceable, with emotional beats landing well, but the songs aren’t especially memorable. Still, the show manages to cover Anne’s complex story clearly in just two hours—a feat made more impactful if you take time to explore the castle beforehand (highly recommended, though not included in the ticket price).

This show wouldn’t work as well in a traditional theatre—it’s the castle, the grounds, and the immersive staging that make it truly what it is.

I’m genuinely curious where this form of theatre will go next. Historalia has created something magical. This feels like just the beginning—not just for the stories of Henry’s other wives, but for Jane Austen, Shakespeare and beyond. All they need is a castle.