Gulf Coast Theatre Review: 'All Shook Up'

FORT MYERS, Fla. —

Attention Elvis Presley fans: get ready to swivel your hips, tap your toes, and snap your fingers as All Shook Up bursts onto the stage at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre in Fort Myers.

This jukebox musical is not about the life of Elvis, but rather an Elvis-like character named Chad, played by Austin Wicke, who carries the familiar swagger and spirit of Elvis Presley, without being a dead ringer for the King of Rock ’n’ Roll. Wicke performs a majority of the 27 popular Elvis tunes throughout the show, including favorites like “Jailhouse Rock,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” and “Hound Dog.” The ensemble cast also shares many of the hit songs.

Wicke has a rich, smooth baritone that doesn’t quite match the full versatility of Elvis, but he is still a joy to watch on stage. At times, he could benefit from a bit more vocal projection, as he occasionally gets covered by the big, 1950s-style orchestra, though that orchestra, led by conductor Drew Scott, is one of the best I’ve heard in the theater in quite some time.

The show is loosely inspired by William Shakespeare’s "Twelfth Night" and revolves around Chad, a roustabout who arrives in a sleepy Midwestern town with his guitar, bringing music, chaos, and romance to a repressed community filled with colorful characters. One of them is Natalie, played by Darcy Reimler, who has a bit of a Mary Ann–type charm as she tries to win Chad’s heart.

However, Chad is more drawn to the sultry, Ginger-like Miss Sandra, played beautifully by Ellie O’Hara. The contrast between the two creates strong Gilligan’s Island–style energy, echoing the classic Ginger vs. Mary Ann dynamic.

There’s also a broader theme of characters discovering unexpected sides of themselves.

All Shook Up is packed with comedy that keeps the show moving, but it also has a romantic, playful heart. I would best describe it as a twisty, feel-good love story where everyone falls for the wrong person at least once.

What makes the show especially memorable is its ensemble of quirky, lovable characters and the way their stories intertwine. Because Elvis’s music is woven through each character’s journey, everyone gets a moment to shine, helping the audience connect with the entire cast.

Some standout performances include Dennis, the nerdy kid trying to fit in, played brilliantly by Ross Coughlin, who is an absolute joy to watch with his sharp comedic timing.

Jasmine Lacy Young plays Sylvia, who has a strong, rich commanding voice and delivers some standout moments along with Zyana Cola, who plays Lorraine, her daughter.

Mayor Matilda Hyde is played by Broadway Palm veteran Shannon Connolly, who brings sharp authority and humor to the role of a no-nonsense leader trying to keep the town under control.

The production is led by director Amy Marie McCleary, who never disappoints, along with her signature choreographic flair. The young cast captures the spirit of early rock ’n’ roll through a blend of swing, jive, partner dancing, and theatrical movement.

While there were a few minor wardrobe issues that could be improved, All Shook Up still delivers a high-energy Elvis celebration that is sure to shake up your soul.

All Shook Up is Broadway Palm’s 250th production and runs through May 16th. Tickets are available at BroadwayPalm.com or by calling the box office at 239-278-4422.

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