Tony Award-winning musical comedy Shucked has officially kicked off Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre’s 2025 summer season with its highly anticipated UK premier. The question on everyone’s lips, will such an American show be enjoyed by a UK audience? Set in the fictional Cob County, Shucked tells the story of young couple Maizy and Beau as they prepare to get hitched; however, crisis strikes when the town’s much-loved corn begins to die off. Maizy sets off on the adventure of a lifetime when she heads to Tampa in search of help and meets smooth-talking Gordy (Matthew Seadon-Young), who seemingly offers the solution to all their problems. Will Maizy bring back the close-knit town’s happily ever after?
Indeed, Shucked is a musical that revolves around corn, yet Robert Horn’s clever writing provides an onslaught of corny jokes and puns that unapologetically play up to its silly plot. I’ve never heard an audience so animated throughout a performance. From start to finish, the genius writing paired with the perfectly timed delivery by the star-studded cast kept everyone laughing all night long. Impressive could also be said about Scott Pask’s gorgeous corn-themed set and Japhy Weideman’s gorgeous lighting, the two combined blended perfectly within Regents Park’s beautiful outdoor scenery and was magical; it truly felt like you were in an old yet lively barn in America’s Deep South.
The incredibly talented cast also does an incredible job of lighting up the stage. Monique Ashe-Palmer and Steven Webb, as Storytellers 1 and 2, are a dynamic duo that truly brings the show together. Webb in particular, channelling the charisma, physical comedy and comedic timing that made him a scene stealer during his time in Book of Mormon, made him a real standout. The pair balanced each other out very well, truly drawing the audience in and helping them stay connected to the story. I would see Shucked again and again just for these two. Another brilliant performance came from Keith Ramsay as the adorably funny Peanut, Ramsay was tasked with some of the most outlandish one-liners of the show and he truly succeeded. His deadpan delivery was truly unmatched.
Powerhouse Georgina Onuorah truly brought the house down with her incredible rendition of ‘Independently Owned’ as Lulu. Despite having to follow in the footsteps of Alex Newell’s Tony Award-winning performance, Onuorah undoubtedly delivered. Onuorah played off Mathew Seadon-Young’s Gordy nicely, and they had some hilarious moments together. Sophie McShera did a stellar job as the sweet-natured leading lady Maizy, coupled with Ben Joyce’s humorous yet well-meaning Beau; their chemistry was great, and they worked well together. ‘Best Man Wins’, featuring Joyce was possibly the strongest song of the night and where Sarah O’Gleby’s spectacular choreography certainly shined.
If you’re looking for high-brow or subtle humour, Shucked may not be the show for you; however, if you fancy a night of easy laughs, foot-tapping music and fields of country charm, this musical is the corny night out you didn’t know you needed.
Shucked is playing at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre until the 15th June, more information and tickets are available here: https://openairtheatre.com/production/shucked
Reviewer: Gemma Prince
Reviewed: 21st May 2025
North West End UK Rating: