Kimberly Akimbo

 Kimberly Akimbo
Atlantic Theater Company
Linda Gross Theater
November 20, 2021 

The Atlantic Theater Company production of KimberlyAkimbo is sheer joy.  Playwright David Lindsay-Abaire has teamed up with composer Jeanine Tesori to adapt his original play of the same name into this musical adventure.  The phenomenal cast, under the direction of Jessica Stone, delivers outstanding performances that will stay with you long after the show is over.

Kimberly (played by Victoria Clark) is a fifteen year old girl who wishes that her family was “normal.”  Her father (played by Steven Boyer) drinks too much.  Her mother (played by Alli Mauzey) thinks only of herself.  Kimberly suffers from a rare genetic disorder where her body ages at an accelerated rate.  She looks and feels like a sixty year old woman and has a life expectancy of sixteen years.  Seth (played by Justin Cooley), a tuba playing puzzle expert, asks Kimberly to partner with him on their science project.  At first Kimberly says no, but when they are both left without a partner, she agrees.  Kimberly becomes intrigued by Seth’s unique way of seeing things, and a friendship develops.  When Kimberly’s Aunt Debra (played by Bonnie Milligan) pops into town, she recruits a few of Kimberly’s school mates (played by Olivia Elease Hardy, Fernell Hogan II, Nina White, & Michael Iskander) on an get rich quick scheme.  When Debra spills the beans on a family secret, Kimberly finds herself drawn into her aunt’s illegal plan. 

Steven Boyer & Victoria Clark
Photo courtesy of Atlantic Theater Company

Victoria Clark delivers a heartwarming performance as Kimberly.  Her character pushes past her comfort zone throughout the story.  Ms. Clark plays these moments with genuine naivete and a determined focus.  Justin Cooley is outstanding as Seth.  His openness and honesty is refreshing.  The connection between him and Ms. Clark is mesmerizing.  Steven Boyer and Allie Mauzey have a strong bond as Kimberly’s highly difunctional parents.  They both try as best they can to get their act together for Kimberly’s sake.  These two actors keep the subtext of tension throughout, making their fall predictable, even though you never stop rooting for them.

Bonnie Milligan drives the action forward, plotting and recruiting for Aunt’s Debra’s plan.  Ms. Milligan weaves many layers into this character.  She creates a likeable villain and, since her plan involves six innocent teenager, you keep your fingers crossed for her success.  Olivia Elease Hardy, Fernell Hogan II, Nina White, & Michael Iskander are an amazing ensemble.  They each create distinct roles that hide their own individual secrets, while propelled by a unified desire. 

The Creatvie Team of Kimberly Akimbo
Photo courtesy of Atlantic Theater Company

The fruits of David Lindsey-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori’s collaboration abound in this production.  Mr. Lindsey-Abaire’s lyrics flow smoothly through Ms. Tesori’s week-crafted score.  There are moments of sincere emotion and deep realization, as well as charming humor.  The set design by David Zinn is full or surprises. 

Kimberly Akimbo is playing at Atlantic Theatre Company’s Linda Gross Theater through December 26.  Don’t miss it! 

Domenick Danza