Has 'Shucked' become the favorite for the Tonys?

Mathew Murphy & Evan Zimmerman

by Chris Peterson, OnStage Blog Founder

If you told me last fall that a musical about corn could likely be the favorite heading into the Tony Awards, I would not have believed you. But after hearing the buzz about Shucked, the new musical that opened on Broadway on April 4th, that may be the reality as we get closer to the award ceremony.

With a book by Robert Horn and music and lyrics by Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally, Shucked has become a fan favorite on social media. I’ve seen dozens of theatergoers rave about the show. From its plot to its catchy song to solid performances from the likes of Alex Newell and John Behlmann, there are strong factors here that may appeal to Tony voters.

I’m not alone in thinking this, either. The New York Post’s Johnny Oleksinski stated,

“Shucked is not the only new show on Broadway with laughs, but it is the only unapologetic comedy in the field. There are no “but”s here. “Such-and-such musical is hilarious, but preachy.” Or “Whatsitcalled is funny, but makes you think about your own mortality.” 

The show is set in a rural community isolated from the world by a wall of economy-driving corn stalks, Shucked follows what happens when the crop begins to fail, and a young woman leaves behind Cob County to try and find someone who can save her town.

Up until now, I’ve considered Kimberly Akimbo as the favorite for Tonys glory, and I still feel that way today. But I wouldn’t count out Shucked. While it may have received mixed reviews from critics, that isn’t an indictment of Tonys success. After all, the reviews for Moulin Rouge weren’t fantastic, and that show took home the big award.

Either way, you can see if Shucked hears its name called to the United Palace stage on June 11.