Friday 1 - Saturday 2 May 2009
As part of an amazing line-up of events marking the 500th anniversary of King Henry VIII’s accession to the throne, Hampton Court Palace is excited to announce a unique opportunity to witness ‘progrock’ legend Rick Wakeman perform The Six Wives of Henry VIII. This eagerly and long-awaited live performance will see this musical extravaganza performed for the first and only time in its entirety, with additional musical scores that Wakeman has written specially for this historic anniversary performance.
In 1972, Rick Wakeman, keyboard player with the supergroup YES, released his first solo album, one of the most iconic albums of all time, The Six Wives of Henry VIII. The album was a staggering success, to date selling over 15,000,000 copies worldwide.
On Friday 1 and Saturday 2 May 2009, The Six Wives of Henry VIII will be premiered in spectacular style at King Henry’s most iconic residence Hampton Court Palace. Rick will be joined on stage by an expanded band, The English Chamber Choir, an orchestra and guest narrator. As well as the six already known pieces, Rick has composed three additional pieces which he will perform; Tudor Overture, Defender of the Faith and Tudor Rock.
Only 10,000 tickets will be available (priced at £49.50, £59.50, £72.50 and a limited amount of VIP tickets at £150). Exclusive front-row VIP tickets include a private reception and an opportunity to meet Rick himself before the performance begins.
