By Jason and Alisha Hagey
At the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Theater, Broadway at the Eccles and Broadway Across America bring a unique gem to the stage with Kimberly Akimbo. This musical gracefully walks the tightrope between hilarity and heartbreak. The five-time Tony Award-winning production, including Best Musical, is a theatrical tour de force that explores the profound intricacies of growing up and growing old in no particular order. With a Tony Award-winning book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire (Book, Lyrics, Original Play) and a luminous score by Jeanine Tesori (Music), this is a production that audiences will remember.
As unique a story as they come, with some of the most universal themes, Kimberly Akimbo is the story of your regular sixteen-year-old girl – who ages 4 to 5 times faster than usual. Kimberly has a rare genetic condition and a dysfunctional family and is determined to find happiness and adventure. Her family recently moved to a new town in suburban New Jersey, where Kimberly makes friends and has her first crush. When all her friends and peers’ lives are just beginning, hers is ending – but this isn’t a sad story. Kimberly Akimbo is life-affirming, uplifting, and hopeful.
The writing and lyrics by Lindsay-Abaire are incisive and moving. Every phrase he writes resonates because he balances wit and profundity, evoking tears at one time and laughing at another. The conversation shines with realism, creating characters that feel real and distinct.
Under the insightful direction of Jessica Stone (Direction), the production seamlessly integrates humor and pathos. Stone’s deft hand clarifies the layered narrative, allowing the story’s emotional beats to land with full force. She infuses each moment with heart and purpose.
The dazzling Carolee Carmello (Kimberly) is the central character in Kimberly Akimbo. There is nothing less than remarkable about Carmello. Her performance is devastating and inspirational since it convincingly conveys Kimberly’s young zeal and mature wisdom. As Kimberly’s eccentric and compassionate confidant, Miguel Gil (Seth) performs with charm and sensitivity, fostering a heartfelt and sincere bond with Kimberly.
With an equal portion of humor and annoyance, Brandon Springman (Buddy) portrays Kimberly’s well-intentioned but miserably unfortunate father. Dana Steingold (Pattie), Kimberly’s conceited and comically extravagant mother, is captivating at the same time. Kimberly’s cunning aunt, Emily Koch (Debra), steals the show with a hilarious and magnetic performance.
The supporting cast [Pierce Wheeler (Aaron), Skye Alyssa Friedman (Teresa), Darron Hayes (Martin), and Grace Capeless (Delia)] produces a dynamic ensemble that perfectly balances the leads with their infectious energy and personalities. Their chemistries strengthen the story’s feeling of camaraderie and inclusion. We must pay special attention to the two women, Capeless and Friedman. These two have a fantastic stage presence and are genuinely charismatic. We hope to see them in more shows in the future.
The production’s visual and auditory elements are a marvel. David Zinn (Scenic Design) crafts a set that captures the essence of suburban New Jersey and high school while providing a versatile backdrop for the story’s shifting tones. It feels profoundly familiar and softly surreal — a reflection of Kimberly’s world.
Sarah Laux’s costumes (Costume Design) are expertly fitted and reflect the characters’ inner lives and the quirky, whimsical tone of the musical. Each costume has a sense of purpose, adding to the play’s world and helping the audience understand the identities and challenges of the characters.
From the warm light of private moments to the lively energy of musical performances, Jeanette Oi-Suk Yew (Lighting Design) and Kai Harada (Sound Design) combine their skills to create an immersive ambiance. J. Jared Janas (Wig, Hair, and Makeup Design) adds another layer of realism, while Lucy MacKinnon (Video Design) offers subtly powerful visual storytelling additions. Kimberly Akimbo is given more depth by the careful layering that makes up the throughline of the projections utilized to improve space and experience.
The orchestrations by John Clancy (Orchestrations) breathe life into Jeanine Tesori’s (Music) stunning score under the musical supervision of Chris Fenwick (Music Supervisor) and the music direction of Leigh Delano (Music Director). While I don’t leave the theatre with one tune repeating itself continually in my head, I do leave the theatre overwhelmed with the sincerity and joy expressed through the music. Each number is fantastic.
Kimberly Akimbo is an achievement of storytelling and stagecraft, a production that leaves audiences laughing through tears and marveling at life’s unpredictability. With its stellar cast, impeccable creative team, and a story that speaks to the heart, this musical is a must-see for anyone seeking theater that entertains and enlightens. Broadway at the Eccles and Broadway Across America have genuinely outdone themselves in bringing this unforgettable production to Salt Lake City.
Recommended for ages 13 and up. Children under 5 are not permitted in the theater. The show contains some strong language, crude humor, references to alcohol use, and authentic New Jersey vernacular.
Duration: 2hrs, 25mins with 1 intermission.
Zions Bank/Broadway at the Eccles Presents: Kimberly Akimbo
Book & Lyrics by Tony and Pulitzer Prize-Winner David Lindsay-Abaire, Music by Tony Award-Winner Jeanine Tesori, Based on the play by David Lindsay-Abaire
The George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Theater
131 Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
December 10-15, 2024.
Tuesday – Thursday 7:00 PM
Friday 7:30 PM
Saturday 1:00 PM
Saturday 7:30 PM
Sunday 1:00 PM
Sunday 6:30 PM
Ticket prices $59-$169
Additional ticket information is available at Broadway-at-the-Eccles.com
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Accessible Performances:
OPEN CAPTIONED: Saturday, Dec 14, 2024 at 1:00 PM
During our captioning performances, we offer a screen near the stage that will provide live captions throughout the show. Patrons who are interested in the captioned performance should select seats located at Orchestra Right on the Main Floor (excluding Orchestra Pit seating).
AUDIO DESCRIPTION: Friday, Dec 13, 2024 at 7:30 PM
The spoken narration of the performance’s key visual elements. This option is available on the following performances. Devices are available at the Patron Services window in the main lobby.
ASL INTERPRETED: Thursday, Dec 12, 2024 at 7:00 PM
American sign language is scheduled upon request. Listed below are our current scheduled performances.
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