Kimberly Akimbo has been one of the more popular new musicals this season on Broadway, and since I was lucky enough to get last-minute tickets to their first preview back in October, let’s talk about it!
What is Kimberly Akimbo about?
Kimberly Akimbo focuses on a teenager named Kimberly, who has a rare medical condition that makes her body age significantly faster than normal, and her dysfunctional family. We also meet Kimberly’s new friends at her new school, all of whom are show choir kids trying to get better costumes for their upcoming performance. As Kimberly is grappling with her mortality already, her family’s drama quickly takes over her life, especially when her chaotic Aunt Debra comes back around and starts getting involved in both her life and her friends life. At its heart, Kimberly Akimbo is about making the most of life and finding happiness.
My thoughts on the show
I really enjoyed this show! While many of the concepts were quite dark and heavy, there was a lot of comedy in the show to balance it out. With that being said, the comedy was definitely my favorite part and what was most memorable for me. Aunt Debra, played by Bonnie Milligan, was absolutely the standout performance.
Would I recommend the show?
If you liked Dear Evan Hansen, or other more minimalist but deep shows, Kimberly Akimbo is for you. If you prefer bigger, flashier shows with spectacularly large song and dance sequences, this may not be your cup of tea, though most people will be able to find elements of the show they love. If you’re from the New York tri-state area (specifically Bergen County, NJ) you will definitely identify with a lot!
How to get tickets
Tickets are available through Telecharge, TodayTix, the Booth Theatre box office, and sometimes on TKTS.
If you’ve seen Kimberly Akimbo, let me know what you thought of it!
