At first glance, Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta's presentation of “Shucked” may seem like a quirky musical about corn, but beneath the humor and charm lies a story of family, acceptance, and finding one’s place in the world.
Set in Cob County, a town surrounded—and isolated—by endless fields of corn, the community thrives in its traditions. But when the corn begins to die, the people are faced with an unfamiliar challenge: They must venture beyond their safe, insular world to find a solution. What unfolds is a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the realization that sometimes stepping outside of the familiar is the only way to truly grow.
For Cecily Dionne Davis, “Shucked” isn’t just a show—it’s a reflection of her own journey. As a performer and advocate, she has dedicated her life to storytelling and breaking barriers, proving that stepping beyond expectations leads to transformation.
Davis’s love for performing started in middle school pageants, where she was crowned Ms. 6th and 8th Grade. Inspired by her mother who also participated in pageants, she saw pageantry as more than competition—it was a way to develop confidence and commanding stage presence. When she attended Howard University, she competed in pageants every year, refining her voice and discovering the power of representation.
But her passion for performance extended beyond the pageant stage. It became a calling—a space where she could tell stories, uplift voices, and inspire change. Her time at Howard deepened Davis’s understanding of Black identity, exposing her to its vast diversity. George Floyd ignited a sense of urgency: “If I am not safe, no one who looks like me is safe.”
Determined to create change, she joined Black Girls Do Theater, founded by Renee Harrison—a trailblazer who champions Black women in the industry. Harrison’s selfless dedication ensures theater isn’t just a side hustle but a space where Black women are prioritized, uplifted, and empowered. Through this community, Davis found not just inclusion, but celebration. Through advocacy, Davis works to ensure that Black performers are seen, valued, and prioritized—not just included.
Davis hopes to inspire HBCU students to pursue careers in the arts without limitation. Her legacy is one of courage, breaking barriers, and proving that dreams are limitless when you dare to chase them.
Be sure to check out Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta's “Shucked” from May 20th to May 25th at Fox Theatre in Atlanta.