Special Reports

5 Facts About Kimberly Akimbo as the Musical Continues Its Great Adventure

The Tony Award-winning musical is traveling North America.

Tanyel Gumushan

Tanyel Gumushan

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December 23, 2024

0141 carolee carmello in the national tour of kimberly akimbo photo by joan marcus 2048x1452
Carolee Carmello stars in the national tour of Kimberly Akimbo
(© Joan Marcus)

Kimberly Akimbo is winding its way across the country.

And as we’re missing it here in the Big Apple, we thought it’s a fine time to do a dive into the history of the 2023 Tony-winning Best Musical.

1. There Wasn’t Always Music

Playwright David Lindsay-Abaire originally wrote Kimberly Akimbo as a play in 2001, before he and his Shrek collaborator Jeanine Tesori (who earned her second Tony Award for the score) added songs.

2. The Inspiration Came From a Newborn

Kimberly Akimbo follows a teen navigating school, a difficult family, and new friends while dealing with an unnamed disorder that makes her age rapidly. The idea came about after Lindsay-Abaire asked a friend how his newborn niece was doing, to which he replied:  “Oh, she’s amazing—she’s like this little old woman trapped in a baby’s body.’”

3. There’s Skating on Stage!

The show has a magical moment, featuring the cast “ice”-skating for real on stage!

4. Anagrams Feature Heavily

Our heroine’s name isn’t actually Kimberly Akimbo; the title comes from an anagram of her name, from which Kimberly Levaco becomes Cleverly Akimbo.

5. A Great Adventure

One of the songs is called “Great Adventure,” and the show is currently enjoying one across North America.

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