Broadway Breakdown: Bonus Episode Featuring Kelsey Watts on SIX

Podcast Information:

• Title: Broadway Breakdown
• Host: Matt Koplik
• Guest: Kelsey Watts
• Episode: Bonus! SIX w/ Kelsie Watts
• Release Date: March 9, 2025

Introduction

In this bonus episode of Broadway Breakdown, host Matt Koplik welcomes guest Kelsey Watts to delve into the highly acclaimed musical SIX. Matt introduces Kelsey as the "most opinionated" and a passionate theater enthusiast, setting the stage for an engaging discussion about her journey and experiences with the show.

Notable Quote:

• Matt Koplik [00:54]: "Hello, all you theater lovers... I am your host, Matt Koplik, the least famous and most opinionated of all the Broadway podcast hosts."

Understanding SIX

Matt begins by explaining the premise of SIX, a musical centered around the six wives of King Henry VIII, who compete to determine who had the most challenging life. The show is described as a blend of historical narrative and modern pop sensibilities, breaking the fourth wall and engaging with the audience in a concert-like atmosphere.

Notable Quote:

• Matt Koplik [03:50]: "For those that don't know SIX, the musical is about King Henry VII's ex-wives... it's basically a concert. These six wives are competing to see who had the worst life."

Kelsey's Journey to SIX

Kelsey shares her personal journey in musical theater, highlighting her unconventional path to landing a role in SIX. From meeting Roberta Duchek, the musical director, to multiple audition callbacks and intensive boot camps, Kelsey's persistence and dedication are evident. She candidly discusses the challenges she faced, including a setback when she was initially cut from the role due to her lack of professional musical theater experience.

Notable Quote:

• Kelsey Watts [05:57]: "I've never done musical theater professionally. I have not done a musical since high school..."

• Matt Koplik [09:54]: "I got cast and I was like, what? So this has been like a process. Like a process."

Character Deep Dive: Jane Seymour

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on Kelsey's portrayal of Jane Seymour, Henry VIII's third wife, who is depicted as the only one he truly loved. Kelsey explores Jane's character arc, emphasizing her vulnerability and the profound emotional journey she undergoes in the musical.

Notable Quote:

• Kelsey Watts [12:35]: "Jane Seymour is your character. The third wife, the one that he truly loved."

Choreography and Performance

Matt and Kelsey discuss the intricate choreography and the physical demands of performing in SIX. They highlight how each song transforms the characters, with Kelsey explaining how the choreography complements Jane Seymour's emotional depth.

Notable Quote:

• Kelsey Watts [16:01]: "In Howard's song, the watchers were the observers. So instead of it being, oh, this is Jane Seymour backing her up in this song, we become different aspects of the other queens in their world."

Vocal Technique and Challenges

Kelsey delves into the vocal challenges of her role, particularly focusing on the song "Heart of Stone." She describes the technical aspects she had to master, such as hitting specific notes and maintaining vocal clarity without breaks during performances.

Notable Quote:

• Kelsey Watts [35:45]: "The second verse is really my favorite part of the song because it's like, she's speaking... I'm gonna let it out. But I can't."

Themes and Messages

The conversation shifts to the broader themes of SIX, including trauma, autonomy, and empowerment. Kelsey emphasizes how the musical transcends gender, resonating universally with audiences by highlighting personal growth and resilience.

Notable Quote:

• Kelsey Watts [54:03]: "No, no, no. You are who you want to be. Your story is what you want it to be."

Costume Design and Easter Eggs

Matt and Kelsey explore the thoughtful costume design in SIX, pointing out subtle Easter eggs that reflect Jane Seymour's character. Kelsey discusses how her costume differentiates her from the other queens, symbolizing her unique role and emotional journey.

Notable Quote:

• Kelsey Watts [48:29]: "Her skirt is much softer... her corset is like armor, guarding herself, her feelings."

Fan Interaction and Reception

Kelsey shares her interactions with the passionate fanbase of SIX, highlighting the positive feedback and support she receives from audiences. She appreciates the fan art and personal connections she makes, underscoring the importance of community in theater.

Notable Quote:

• Matt Koplik [47:25]: "They've been so nice. I've already got some fan art, which is cool and different."

Handling Feedback and Criticism

Towards the end of the episode, Kelsey discusses the nature of feedback, both positive and negative. She emphasizes the importance of constructive criticism and staying true to oneself, even when facing unwarranted negativity.

Notable Quote:

• Kelsey Watts [64:44]: "People can feel how they feel... it's the hardest thing in the world."

Closing Thoughts and Future Episodes

As the episode wraps up, Matt and Kelsey express their enthusiasm for future collaborations and deeper dives into Broadway shows. They encourage listeners to engage with both their platforms and share their experiences.

Notable Quote:

• Kelsey Watts [58:30]: "I think this is what people love... it's not put on, you know, it's you, which is what people love."

Conclusion

This bonus episode of Broadway Breakdown offers an intimate look into Kelsey Watts' role in SIX, her journey in musical theater, and the intricate layers of the show itself. With candid conversations, insightful analysis, and a touch of humor, Matt and Kelsey provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and triumphs involved in bringing SIX to the Broadway stage.

Final Notable Quote:

• Matt Koplik [66:34]: "Thank you so much for listening, guys... Take it away, Vosk. Bye."

Additional Resources:

• Kelsey Watts' Social Media:

  • Instagram: @kelseywattsmusic
  • TikTok: @kelseywatts.bluesky
  • YouTube: Kelsey Watts

• Follow Matt Koplik:

  • Instagram: @mkoplik
  • TikTok: @mkoplikblue

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This summary captures the essence of the bonus episode featuring Kelsey Watts, highlighting her experiences in SIX, the technical and emotional aspects of her role, and the broader themes the musical explores. With direct quotes and structured sections, the summary provides a comprehensive overview for both listeners and newcomers.