|
Regional Reviews: Raleigh/Durham Shucked
The musical got its start as a planned musical version of the hit country variety TV show of the latter 20th century, "Hee Haw." Kornfield County of the TV program became Cob County and the character of Lulu and even Grandpa (two "Hee Haw" staple characters) are nods to its origins. Despite the familiar background, the book by Robert Horn is original though predictable in its flow. Horn's background in writing humor for the stage won him a Tony Award for his book for the musical adaptation of the 1982 film Tootsie. The humor in this musical is a true delight though there are some rather lewd jokes for families thinking about bringing their little ones. Two storytellers (performed with gusto by Tyler Joseph Ellis and Maya Lagerstam) introduce the fable of Cob County and its love of corn, as it is the major economic commodity. The story revolves primarily around Maizy (a lovely Danielle Wade) and Beau (the fantastic Jake Odmark), who are planning their wedding. Suddenly, the town's corn starts to die, and the focus turns on a dime. Maizy wants to halt the wedding, leave her home for the first time ever, and go find a solution outside of the county in the glorious metropolis known as... Tampa. Beau does not approve. It is in Tampa where Maizy meets a podiatrist "corn doctor" by the name of Gordy (a humorous Jackson Goad) who milks her naivete and cons her into thinking he can cure their ills, all the while seeing what can be in it for himself. He has his own problem that involves debt owed to the mob. Ultimately, she brings him back to Cob County where a love triangle and shenanigans ensue. Will the corn be restored to all its healthy corniness? Will Maizy and Beau officially tie the knot? What do you think? Music and lyrics are provided by Grammy nominee Brandy Clark and winner Shane McAnally. Both have collaborated often and have also worked solo. They have written songs for several popular country artists as well as being recording artists themselves. Their songs are perfect for the stage. The tunes, and even more so the lyrics, are catchy enough to be adapted for any recording artist to take the songs to the airwaves. A standout is Lulu's (Maizy's cousin and best friend) number "Independently Owned" and the tender "Friends," which is a true tearjerker. Oddly absent from the national tour is the number that opened the second act on Broadway. For those who saw the musical in New York City or may have heard the cast recording, Act II opened with "We Love Jesus," a humorous juxtaposition of morals and the enjoyment of life. It has replaced by "Ballad of the Rocks" which fits more ain moving the story along but is not as entertaining and feels rather flat. Esteemed director Jack O'Brien (who also won a Tony for his direction of the fan favorite musical adaptation of Hairspray, among others) seems at home with a stellar support group of designers and engineers. Sarah O'Gleby provides inventive choreographed moments, especially in the number the opening number "Corn," which creatively uses corn cobs in the dance. Scott Pask's scenic design is simple yet effective, and Tilly Grimes' costumes add to the sense of place and characterization. Lighting by Japhy Weideman and sound design by John Shivers round out a team of top-notch creatives. Beyond the aforementioned cast, there is Beau's brother Peanut, performed hilariously by Mike Nappi, who seems to be right out of a sketch from "Hee Haw." And tackling a role that won a Tony Award for Alex Newell, Miki Abraham holds her own and takes the role of Lulu to a whole new level of awesome. Though the story may be simplistic in structure, it is sure to be a fun night of entertainment, a wonderfully hilarious romp through the cornfield. Shucked runs through March 9, 2025, at Durham Performing Arts Center, 123 Vivian St. Durham NC. For tickets and information, please visit www.dpacnc.com or call 919-680-2787. For more information on the tour, visit shuckedmusical.com/. Music and Lyrics: Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally Cast: |
