If you haven’t heard of Shucked yet, trust us—you will. This hilarious, heartfelt, and completely original musical has been delighting audiences across the country with its clever wit, catchy score, and one very quirky obsession: corn. Now headed to the San Diego Civic Theatre August 12–17, Shucked introduces local audiences to the vibrant world of Cobb County and the strong, hilarious, no-nonsense character of Lulu, played by the brilliant Miki Abraham.
In this exclusive interview, Abraham shares how they stepped into the role of Lulu (after understudying the Tony-winning Alex Newell), their Southern roots, and what keeps them grounded while touring. From small-town Kentucky to the bright lights of Broadway, Abraham is proof that grit, talent, and a sense of humor can take you anywhere—even to a cornfield at the center of a hit musical.
Chocolate Chat with Miki Abraham
How did you first get involved with Shucked, and what was your reaction when you got the role of Lulu?
So, it’s kind of funny. My husband—who’s also an actor—was working on the musical when it was still untitled. I was reading the lines with him and thought, “This show is really funny.” In 2021 during the pandemic, I auditioned for the ensemble. I didn’t get it at first. Then in 2022, I had another audition and was cast as an offstage swing for the pre-Broadway production in Salt Lake City, Utah.
That meant I was an understudy for all five ensemble women, including Lulu—played at the time by Alex Newell. When we transferred to Broadway in 2023, I actually made my Lulu debut without a single rehearsal or run-through when Alex called out. I ended up going on 58 times during our Broadway run. When the tour was announced, I was offered the role full-time, and here we are. It’s really special. Alex and I joined the company at the same time, and now I get to make the character my own.
Is your husband in this production of Shucked?
No, he’s on Broadway in The Outsiders.
Can you share a bit about your path to Broadway?
I was born and raised in Paducah, Kentucky, and grew up doing community theatre. I was homeschooled, so that was my one big extracurricular. I’ve been a theater kid through and through. My first show was Annie in 1998, and I may have been the first Black Annie they’d ever had—I like to tell myself that! From there, I studied acting at Northern Kentucky University, earned my BFA, then moved to New York about 10 years ago. I’ve done three national tours, cruise lines, off-Broadway—you name it.
Shucked is my Broadway debut, and it’s incredibly meaningful because I actually grew up listening to country music. From age 12, I was entering talent shows singing country songs, so this show is really close to my heart.
Tell us about your character Lulu.
The hero of the story is Maizy, and I play her cousin, Lulu. We joke that it’s like golden retriever meets black cat energy between the two of them. Lulu runs the local whiskey distillery, takes no nonsense, and is basically the rock of the community. She’s strong, grounded, and has that classic Southern sensibility—smart, sassy, and rooted in her values.
I grew up in Kentucky, so I had a lot of inspiration to draw from. People have come to the show and said, “I saw your mom up there,” and I’m like, yep—you should have! She’s one of my favorite characters I’ve ever played.
Lulu is known for delivering some of the biggest laughs in the show. What’s your approach to comedy in this role?
Before Shucked, I hadn’t really done comedy. What I’ve learned is that the magic comes from being completely genuine. Our director, Jack O’Brien, reminds us: “Your character is not funny. The script is funny.” So you say the most absurd things with total sincerity. That’s what makes it land. And honestly, that’s also very Southern—you can be read for filth with a straight face and a smile.
How would you describe Shucked to someone who hasn’t seen it?
It’s a lighthearted, laugh-out-loud musical that’s totally original. My solo, Independently Owned, blends country, gospel, and musical theatre. The show has 183 laughs—yes, they counted them! But more than that, it’s a joyful escape from everyday life. We say: come with an open mind, trust us, and we’ll take care of you. People around the world have fallen in love with this show—and I think San Diego will too.
There’s a lot of heart beneath the humor in Shucked. What do you think audiences are most surprised to walk away with?
That a musical about corn could win them over! The opening number is literally called “Corn.” I see the guy in the second row, arms crossed because his wife dragged him to the theater—and by minute 30, we’ve got him. The show makes you laugh and cry, and gives you permission to just feel joy. That’s the power of theater. It opens people up in ways they didn’t expect.
How do you keep up your energy and stay grounded while on tour?
I have a friend in the show, and we find hot yoga studios in every city we visit. That’s our ritual—it keeps us grounded and gives us a sense of routine. We also make time to explore and find a fun restaurant. That balance helps us show up fully for our characters every night.
Don’t Miss Miki Abraham in Shucked
📍 WHEN: August 12–17
📍 WHERE: San Diego Civic Theatre, 1100 3rd & B Street, Downtown San Diego
🎟️ TICKETS: broadwaysd.com/upcoming-events/shucked
