THEATER: “Shucked” @ Proctors, 3/22/2025

Words by Ian Losz.

Let me start by saying I’m not a big fan of theatre musicals. I much prefer the classics or drama. However,  I will admit that I like any song that makes me chuckle, with either humor or irony. I just saw a Tony Award-winning play that possessed all of this. Or should I say, it made me chuckle?

Last night, I was pleasantly entertained by the musical “Shucked” at Proctors in Schenectady.  It had flavor for a variety of tastes. This was not just for lovers of songs about corn. In addition to the music, it had comedy and dance. This kind of comedy channels the old TV show “Hee Haw,” but updated for the year 2025. It actually could be an R-rated version. Lots of one-liners and innuendo. And yes, even sometimes corny. The philosophical musings of Peanut (Mike Nappi) left the audience well amused.

I noticed two things from the start, the first being the interesting stage setting by Scott Pask. It was a building structure,  and it remained the setting throughout the play. However, the props – planks and barrels, wagons and corn stalks – were moved and utilized brilliantly to change the mood and location during the story. Secondly, the use of the stage width, with props directing attention toward the wings, was well-choreographed.

This play, from the Robert Horn book, was smartly written, and the stage was a wonderful palette to tell the story. The actors were a talented ensemble who skillfully spoke, sang, and danced throughout the performance. I did not find the songs nor the scenes too lengthy to lose interest in this two-act play.

My standout performance goes to Miki Abraham, who portrayed Lulu. She handled the farm-themed songs with ease, but I could easily imagine her tackling rock and roll with her skyrocketing vocal range. The story was gleefully narrated by a duet of actors (Tyler Joseph Ellis and Maya Lagerstam), sharing the spotlight with the main character,  Maizy (Danielle Wade). Yet, the performance and weight of the supporting cast would not be as solid if not for the depth of their overall talent.

One could not help but notice the classical architecture of this theatre, surrounding us as a small town saga unfolds within the grand theatre of this city.

The overall experience of seeing “Shucked” was simple, funny, and uplifting. The performance of the troupe was very good from the top of the bill throughout the cast. Judging by the chatter of the exiting crowd, a thoroughly enjoyable evening was had by all.

High marks for the interesting set perspective and excellent directorial orchestration by Jack O’Brien. I would recommend seeing “Shucked” if you like live comedy or musicals.