Kirstin Maldonado Opens Up About the Challenge of Broadway Ahead of Debut in “SIX”: ‘It’s a Workout!’ (Exclusive)

Kirstin Maldonado, the Grammy-winning vocalist from acclaimed a cappella group Pentatonix, is set to make her Broadway debut in the role of Anne Boleyn in the hit musical *SIX*. The performance will commence on June 1, marking a significant milestone in Maldonado’s career as she steps into this high-profile role.

The talented artist, who is also a mother of two, first auditioned for *SIX* back in 2023. However, the timing wasn’t right for her to join the production until now. She takes over the iconic role from Dylan Mulvaney, whose final performance was on May 31. Boleyn, famously known as the second wife of King Henry VIII, represents one of the central figures in the storyline, which is focused on the unique stories of the monarch’s six wives.

Maldonado is keenly aware of the challenge ahead, having taken the opportunity to begin her rehearsals early. “I went to New York in February for a little bit and knocked some of the rehearsal out just to get a little head start on it,” she revealed in an interview with *PEOPLE*. Her vision for Boleyn’s portrayal is striking; she aims to bring a bold, fierce quality to the character. “I want to play her like really badass… the comedy of her comes within her effortlessness and kind of style,” she expressed.

Each wife in *SIX* shines during the performance, telling her own unique story through a signature song. For Boleyn, Maldonado will be performing the popular number “Don’t Lose Ur Head,” which combines cheeky pop-punk elements alongside references to her tragic fate. The format of the musical is distinctive, featuring a one-act structure with the cast remaining on stage throughout the 90-minute performance, thereby presenting an interesting challenge for Maldonado as she juggles the demands of singing and dancing.

Preparing for this role requires not just vocal training but also physical stamina. The singer acknowledges the rigours of the show, saying, “This show is just really difficult vocally and physically… I’ll definitely have to warm up my body, do some stretching.” While she feels capable of handling the demands placed upon her, she admits that it is undoubtedly a challenge and requires a new regime of fitness.

The fast-paced nature of *SIX* means that each queen participates throughout the performance, contributing to a truly engaging production. Boleyn’s song follows an energetic opener featuring Catherine of Aragon, fostering a need for endurance as the performers navigate the high-energy choreography. Using humour, Maldonado noted, “I need to start running and singing at the same time so I can get prepared. It’s a workout. I am definitely sweating.”

Maldonado’s journey to this role has been a culmination of years spent in the world of performance. She originally gained fame as part of Pentatonix, which achieved global recognition after winning the third season of *The Sing-Off* in 2011. Her first venture into Broadway occurred in 2018 when she portrayed Lauren in *Kinky Boots*. Reflecting on that experience, she described her Broadway debut as a transformative moment in her life.

Having spent time in both New York and Los Angeles, Maldonado has a deep-rooted affinity for the theatre scene in New York. She remembers, “When I go back to New York, though, I’m always like, ‘Ah, my soul feels better here.’” While she acknowledges her connection to Los Angeles, the vibrant New York theatre community resonates strongly with her.

Maldonado’s run in *SIX* marks a continued evolution of the production, which first opened to critical acclaim on October 3, 2021. Created by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, the musical has remained one of Broadway’s major highlights, celebrating its fifth year as the longest-running show at the Lena Horne Theatre.

Her excitement for the role is palpable, as she previously expressed on *GMA3*, “I am so excited to be back on Broadway and especially in this powerhouse show. I cannot wait and I hope you guys can come see!” The excitement surrounding her debut is mirrored by fans looking forward to her portrayal of one of history’s most captivating figures.

With tickets to *SIX* now available for sale, audiences can anticipate an electrifying performance as Kirstin Maldonado brings her charismatic interpretation of Anne Boleyn to life on stage.