Kimberly, a 16-year old girl, has a disorder that causes her to age four to five times faster than normal. She wants to go on a big road trip before her condition worsens, but her family doesn’t have the money. So, she decides with her friends to go along with a plan hatched up by her aunt to come up with the money. 

David Lindsay-Abaire has written a hilarious and heartfelt musical. It truly captures the awkward experiences of being a teenager with lines like “If you ever want to practice kissing, I’d be up for it.” It’s also inspirational as Kim refuses to play it safe and strives to go on the Six Flags Great Adventure trip while she still can.  It’s no surprise that it won the Tony for Best Musical in 2023. Also, Jeanine Tesori (Fun Home, Blue) did a great job with the music.  

Carolee Carmello is great as the very likable Kimberly. Miguel Gil is absolutely hilarious as Kim’s crush, who is very interested in anagrams. Jim Hogan is excellent in the tough role of the father. Laura Woyasz is very funny as the mother. Emily Koch is superb as the Mellisa McCarthy style crazy aunt. Pierce Wheely, Grace Capeless, Darron Hayes, and Skye Alyssa Friedman are all so funny as Kim’s friends. 

Cost of a ticket: $98 (Orchestra)

PlaylistHQ Economic Rating: Worth It   

Rating Scale: Exceptional Value > Worth It > Discounted > Go for Free > Don’t Bother

Get tickets now for Kimberly Akimbo through June 22nd! 

Quinn Delaney