Yes, it’s corny… but you knew that. What makes Shucked delicious is a buttery glaze of self awareness, as it spoofs its own corny-ness with cartoonish gusto.
We are introduced to a corn-encircled midwestern community by engaging “Storytellers” Tyler Joseph Ellis and Maya Lagerstam. They set the manic pace and bounce the cutely contrived plot along. After a production number celebrating corn, they introduce us to “Maizy” and “Beau” the corn-crossed lovers whose nuptials are interrupted by a mysterious corn blight. Danielle Wade and Jake Odmark have lovely voices and we root for Danielle’s “Maizy” on her brave journey looking for a corn doctor. She meets shady podiatrist “Gordy” (Quinn Van Antwerp) who is swept into a mission of greed and deception. Another fine performer, and one with a wider character arc than the others.
Highlights of the cast include Lulu (Miki Abraham) a woman to be reckoned with, whose corn liquor business is “Independently Owned” as she explains in her showstopper song. I particularly enjoyed “Peanut” (Mike Nappi) who seemed to me like a Shakespearean “wise fool” dispensing punny opinions and advice, such as, “If I had a crystal ball… I’d probably walk funny.” Much of the humor is a little PG and/or groan-worthy but it keeps the audience laughing as these characters evolve to a happy ending, delivering a message of forgiveness and acceptance that gives the show heart.
It’s refreshing to see a new, original show — book by Robert Horn, music and lyrics by Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally. Shucked continues through January 26. Tickets at https://www.whartoncenter.com
We are introduced to a corn-encircled midwestern community by engaging “Storytellers” Tyler Joseph Ellis and Maya Lagerstam. They set the manic pace and bounce the cutely contrived plot along. After a production number celebrating corn, they introduce us to “Maizy” and “Beau” the corn-crossed lovers whose nuptials are interrupted by a mysterious corn blight. Danielle Wade and Jake Odmark have lovely voices and we root for Danielle’s “Maizy” on her brave journey looking for a corn doctor. She meets shady podiatrist “Gordy” (Quinn Van Antwerp) who is swept into a mission of greed and deception. Another fine performer, and one with a wider character arc than the others.
Highlights of the cast include Lulu (Miki Abraham) a woman to be reckoned with, whose corn liquor business is “Independently Owned” as she explains in her showstopper song. I particularly enjoyed “Peanut” (Mike Nappi) who seemed to me like a Shakespearean “wise fool” dispensing punny opinions and advice, such as, “If I had a crystal ball… I’d probably walk funny.” Much of the humor is a little PG and/or groan-worthy but it keeps the audience laughing as these characters evolve to a happy ending, delivering a message of forgiveness and acceptance that gives the show heart.
It’s refreshing to see a new, original show — book by Robert Horn, music and lyrics by Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally. Shucked continues through January 26. Tickets at https://www.whartoncenter.com
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