Henry VIII doesn’t know what’s coming to him (Photo courtesy of Capital Fringe)

Reminds us of: John Tucker Must Die meets A Christmas Carol.

Flop, Fine or Fringe-tastic?: Fringe-tastic.

Who is Henry VIII? Whoever he is, he’s no longer alive. Henry Tudor is dead, but the fervently religious, egomaniacal, wife-killing ruler is shocked (shocked!) to discover he has not gone straight to heaven. Even worse, he’s not alone. All six of his former wives are right there with him in purgatory, and most of them are pissed. Who could blame him? The man had two of them beheaded.

If European history class was a long time ago and you’re shaky on some details, Ladies in Waiting: The Judgment of Henry VIII will fill you in on some of the major events and key relationships. It’s only fitting that the female cast members are the strongest in this production inspired by a womanizer who ultimately got his. Each actress helps boost the male lead’s anguished narrative of an egotistical jackass put in his place. The women form a jury and chorus, each stating in turn how their relationship with Henry ended, never fearing repercussions from being brutally honest. It may be cathartic for them, but the experience is torturous for Henry. Fiercely misogynistic, the former ruler has no choice but to listen. He at least has the freedom to answer and share his side, which he does. But his responses reflect a deeply entrenched hatred for women, even ones he once claimed to care for. Ironically, while he spent his life searching for a partner who could provide him with a male heir, in death, Henry’s legacy is defined by women.

Where to See It: Gallaudet University’s Eastman Studio Theatre on July 12 at 9:15 p.m., July 13 at 5:30 p.m., and July 15 at 11 a.m. Buy tickets here.

See here for all of DCist’s 2017 Capital Fringe coverage. All shows are $17, with a button ($7) required for entry.