“Shucked” is an unapologetically corny musical comedy that rests right at the junction of where Broadway meets Branson.
It is a mostly-silly, slightly-sentimental delight that is now playing at the Fox Theatre through Feb. 23.
We learn about the residents of rural Cobb County through a couple of narrators (Tyler Joseph Ellis and Maya Lagerstam). Young sweethearts Maizy (Danielle Wade) and Beau (Jake Odmark) are planning a wedding when disaster strikes, as the corn that supports every aspect of the community mysteriously begins to die.
Everyone is reluctant to consult the outside world for help, with the exception of Maizy. She takes it upon herself to venture out and finds herself in Tampa, where she meets Gordy (Quinn Vanantwerp), a handsome conman who passes himself off as a corn expert.
Mazy brings Gordy back to Cobb County where the town folk are skeptical, especially Maizy’s no-nonsense cousin Lulu (Miki Abraham). But Maizy’s belief in Gordy stays strong, with the belief that faith in humanity will save their precious corn.
“Shucked” boasts a very particular flavor of humor full of puns and dad jokes that are so bad they’re good. The most overt of these come from Beau’s brother Peanut (Mike Nappi) who pauses to make several non-sequitur observations throughout the show.
As a musical, “Shucked” is solid with catchy, clever songs that, while enjoyable, aren’t particularly memorable.
The cast hit all the perfect comedic notes, even if the vocals fall short in a couple of instances.
There’s nothing that’s particularly earthshaking or groundbreaking about “Shucked.” It’s light, fun and entertaining, which is something we all need from time to time. Plus it’s a treat to see a new musical that’s not based on a movie. Originality in musical theater, even if it’s recycled and familiar, is worth its weight in corn.
“Shucked” is now playing at the Fox Theatre through Feb. 23. For tickets call 314-534-1111 or go to metrotix.com.
