Anne Boleyn’s Story Right Where It All Began

Explore Hever Castle by day, then experience the story of one of its most famous residents by night with Anne Boleyn: The Musical.

Emily Lane as Anne Boleyn and the ensemble

Less than an hour by train from London, Hever Castle is the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII. Whether a history enthusiast or a fan of SIX: The Musical, parts of her dramatic story may already be familiar.

This new musical brings Anne’s journey to life through original songs and striking performances. Led by the captivating Emily Lane, the show follows Anne from her early years at the French court, through her rise to queen, her tempestuous marriage to Henry VIII, and ultimately her tragic execution. It also honours the powerful legacy left behind through her daughter, Elizabeth I.

Emily Lane as Anne Boleyn and Kim Ismay as Joan

Performed in a custom-built 1800-seat auditorium situated on Church Lawn and facing directly towards Hever Castle, the show blends history and theatre in a uniquely powerful way. While the space is outdoors, the auditorium is covered, offering shelter from the elements, though bringing extra layers for the evening is recommended.

Noah Sinigaglia as Queen Katherine

The production also offers food and drink service in a tented area behind the auditorium. A selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available, alongside burgers, buns, hot dogs, and popcorn. All food and drinks can be brought into the theatre and enjoyed during the show.

Joshua Oakes-Rogers as George Boleyn

What makes this production truly extraordinary is its setting. With that in mind, making the trip to Hever a full day out is highly recommended. It’s well worth exploring Hever Castle beforehand. Taking advantage of the complimentary audio tour to immerse in the history of Anne and the Boleyn family, and enjoying the stunning gardens adds an extra layer of understanding and emotional connection once the musical begins.

Emily Lane as Anne Boleyn and Mark Goldthrop as King Henry

Although the location is undoubtedly one of the show’s greatest strengths, it does raise an interesting question. Could this production work elsewhere? So much of its impact is rooted in the connection between the story and the very ground on which it unfolds. It will be interesting to see what the creative team envisions for its future and whether it can resonate as deeply in a different venue.

The ensemble

Audience members wear wireless headsets, allowing the music and dialogue to unfold with intimacy and clarity. This clever design makes the experience feel personal and immersive, even with the large semi-open-air stage.

Clive Hayward as Cardinal Wolsey and Max Bond as Cromwell

Performed on the very grounds Anne once walked, the show opens with an unforgettable moment. Emily, fully transformed into Anne, emerges from the gardens and walks toward the temporary stage, with the majestic Hever Castle as her backdrop. With the headphones, every breath, footstep, and movement is heightened, drawing the audience into Anne’s world from the very start. It was the first of many moments when Emily evoked goosebumps. It is a theatrical entrance that transcends the ordinary.

Emily Lane as Anne Boleyn

A particular standout, echoed by many audience members, is the arrival of King Henry at Hever Castle. While the action plays out on stage as the Boleyns and their staff prepare for His Majesty’s arrival, King Henry gallops toward the real-life castle on horseback in the distance. It is a cinematic moment that blurs the line between theatre and reality. This is mirrored in an equally moving second act moment when Anne and Henry’s daughter, now Queen Elizabeth I, also arrives on horseback. The image serves as a powerful symbol of Anne’s enduring legacy.

Mark Goldthrop as King Henry

After being a big fan of hers from her days as Anna in Frozen the Musical, Emily Lane continues to impress in this role. She is completely mesmerising, shifting from a headstrong young woman determined to change the world, to a wounded queen fighting for her people, and finally to a devoted mother fiercely protective of her daughter. Her vocals are rich and consistent throughout. A highlight is her emotional performance of “You” in Act Two, where she sings to baby Elizabeth about the expectations already placed on her for simply being born a girl, and her vow to support and fight for her no matter what.

Emily Lane as Anne Boleyn with baby Elizabeth

The ensemble is another standout feature. Rather than casting professionals, the production held open auditions for Kent locals. Their involvement brings an authentic sense of community and vibrancy to the performance, making the Tudor court feel grounded and alive.

The ensemble

Though the music is enjoyable in the moment and helps drive the story forward, it is not particularly memorable once the show ends. There are no songs that linger in the mind afterwards, which may limit its lasting impact musically.

While the story and musical score are straightforward and do not break new ground, the strength of the performances and the extraordinary setting elevate the experience into something truly memorable.

For a truly unique theatrical show, explore and experience Anne Boleyn: The Musical at Hever Castle. The production runs for a limited time until 30 August.

★★★★

Buy tickets here.

Emily Lane as Anne Boleyn, Chomba S. Taulo as Bishop Fisher and Mark Goldthrop as King Henry

Gifted press tickets

Photo credit: Daniel Watson