Kimberly Akimbo: The Uncomfortable Untold Truth

 Kimberly Akimbo: The Uncomfortable Untold Truth

By David Pulvermacher


Bizzare, bombastic, and brilliant are three words that come to mind after reflecting on Saturday’s Production of Kimberly Akimbo. Written by David Linsay-Abbaire, Kimberly Akimbo follows the teenage life of Kimberly Lavaco. While the average teenager’s biggest worries are usually acne and their latest crush, Kim faces medical troubles beyond what most can imagine. Kimberly battles a form of progeria, a disease that ages the body faster than average. While navigating high school is daunting enough, Kim constantly struggles with living in the body of a middle-aged woman. Kimberly Akimbo is a Tony Award-winning show for best new musical. 


On top of her personal health odyssey, Kimberly’s home life is a source of serious contention. From parents who run hot and cold in their own personal issues to a self-centered aunt who enjoys manipulating others for a payday, Kimberly wishes she had regular teen problems. Kim is fighting for her life while trying to find the meaning of life. This mature show has a shock value that displays the antithesis of a Normal Rockwell family portrait. 


The cast of Kimberly Akimbo is excellent. Staring as Kim Lavacco, Colleen Fitzpatrick portrays an insecure and slightly naive teenager looking for purpose in her life. Fitzpatrick has excellent chemistry with her onstage family and friends, especially with Alex Vinh, who plays Kimberly’s classmate, Seth, in the show. Vinh portrays a realistic and modern student you’d see attending high school today. Seth is awkward and quirky, as seen by his love of the tuba and cringy interactions with his peers. 


Regardless, Seth grows on the audience as he engages more with Kimberly’s dangerous aunt, Debra. Played by Bonnie Milligan, Debra is a loud-mouthed hothead who flaunts across the stage like the world owes her. As a character and in her vocals, Debra is in everyone’s face and knows how to turn a situation in her favor. With a quick wit and silver tongue, the foil between Debra and Seth’s scout-like code is an excellent contrast. 


The staging is clever and elaborate. Changing per the scene, the stage morphs from the Lavaco household, to Kim’s high school, to even an ice ring the characters hang out in. 


The intensity of the themes and performances creates a polarizing reaction. While some were ready to leave when the curtain closed, others were on their feet wiping the tears from their eyes. This show mixes heartfelt moments with emotional heartbreak. Kimberly Akimbo is a show that will make you think long after you leave the theater. 


 Kimberly Akimbo is now playing until April 28th at Booth Theater at 222 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036. Tickets can be purchased at the theater, online at https://kimberlyakimbothemusical.com/#tickets or call at 212-239-6200
Location: 222 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036, USA

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