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Regional Reviews: Phoenix Shucked Also see Gil's review of A Christmas Carol
The story follows Maizy, a spirited young woman from the fictional, corn-obsessed Cobb County. When the community's cherished corn crop begins to mysteriously fail, Maizy ventures beyond the county line in hopes of finding help, something that doesn't sit well with her fiancé Beau. Maizy's journey leads her to a slick city con man named Gordy who sees opportunity where she sees hope. As Gordy travels back with Maizy to "fix" the corn crisis, a cascade of misunderstandings, romantic entanglements, and hilarious revelations unfolds, all filtered through the narration of a lively pair of storytellers who guide the audience through this folk-tale-meets-satire world. Robert Horn's book is a comic triumph, filled with clever wordplay and rapid-fire jokes that land with astonishing consistency. The one-liners come fast and furious, but the humor never overshadows the emotional core of the story, which celebrates bravery, community, and the strength of family and friends. Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally's score blends contemporary country flavor with classic musical theatre styles. Their exceptional songs are tuneful and character driven, ranging from heartfelt ballads to foot-stomping ensemble numbers. The national tour cast brings tremendous energy and charm to the material. As Maizy, Danielle Wade offers a warm, earnest performance that anchors the show. Her voice soars on the character's introspective songs and she captures Maizy's blend of innocence and resolve exceptionally. Quinn VanAntwerp delivers a sly, magnetic turn as the fast-talking Gordy, the outsider whose emotional evolution is quite satisfying; even though we know he's the antagonist of the story, VanAntwerp's compelling portrayal makes us vested in his journey. As Beau and Lulu, Maizy's cousin, Nick Bailey and understudy Dominique Kent are excellent. Beau's steady sincerity and emotional vulnerability are portrayed with touching authenticity by Bailey, while Kent's feisty, no-nonsense presence makes Lulu an audience favorite. Both have powerhouse vocals and sharp comic delivery. As the two narrators who comment on and guide the action, Maya Lagerstam and Joe Moeller add another level of humor and playfulness. Their rhythmic banter, effortless rapport, and tongue in cheek delivery help make the show's unique storytelling style and campy nature especially effective. As Beau's brother Peanut, Mike Nappi's comic timing is superb, with a succession of one-liners that embody the show's spirited heartland comedy, and the small ensemble shine throughout. Jack O'Brien's direction celebrates the folksy, feel-good nature of the characters and situations while ensuring the jokes get big laughs while the heart in the story is never shortchanged. The choreography by Sarah O'Gleby delivers several upbeat, foot-stomping ensemble numbers, and the creative elements, which are simple but effective, shine throughout. With its clever book, catchy score and exceptional cast, Shucked delivers pure comic joy while offering a gentle reminder of the strength found in community. It is a fairly simple musical that surprises in its delightful depiction of these charming characters while delivering plenty of laughs. Sure, it's corny, but for fans of musical comedy, Shucked should prove to be an irresistible and refreshing theatrical treat. Shucked runs through December 7, 2025, at ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Avenue, Tempe AZ. For tickets and information, please visit www.asugammage.com or call 480 965-3434. For information on the tour, visit shuckedmusical.com. Book: Robert Horn Cast: |
