Funny as heck!
by Ginny on 7/16/25Orpheum Theatre - MinneapolisRating: 5 out of 5I read the review of what the play was about and knew this would be something to bring my teenage girls too. We laughed a lot. What a great great show.

KIMBERLY AKIMBO is the winner of five 2023 Tony Awards including BEST MUSICAL! Kimberly is about to turn 16 and recently moved with her family to a new town in suburban New Jersey. In this "howlingly funny heartbreaker of a show" (The New Yorker), Kim is forced to navigate family dysfunction, a rare genetic condition, her first crush...and possible felony charges. Ever the optimist, she is determined to find happiness against all odds and embark on a great adventure.
I read the review of what the play was about and knew this would be something to bring my teenage girls too. We laughed a lot. What a great great show.
The musical had just about all of life’s experiences and ways of learning of the many differences we all might have yet the common elements of looking for someone to love us as we are
I attended the performance with my wife and younger daughter. Both of them thought the play substandard-- more the writing than the acting and singing, but they were not impressed with either of those as well. I, on the other hand, thought the play interesting, although the program description led me to expect the main character to age during the play. I thought the family dynamics were presented as if in shorthand, shorthand but poignant nonetheless. The first song set in the car had such energy and punch as to remind me of "Friends, we got Trouble, right here in River City"(The Music Man). Also, I thought it was ingenious and very interesting to use the four fellow students as an occasional chorus (as a modern analogy to the chorus in Greek theater). If my wife or daughter were both of them were writing this review, they would say three stars, at the most. However, I am the one with the "pen,"and I say four.
Not a classic, but a fun romp with strong performances by the 2 female leads and supporting cast. Acoustics could be better and the Orpheum is guaranteed cramped seating
Hi, I really liked the story line and story about youth navigating life.
I was fortunate to see Kimberly Akimbo in New York City with the original cast, with that being said, I was very impressed with this show. Everyone was great. It was the first time for my husband to see this show and he loved it!
I have loved other David Lindsey Abare shows and knew I was in for a treat. Story and singing were fantastic!
Really a fun story, great songs and lots of energy. Perfect for the whole family. (bring a swear jar LOL)
When I saw Kimberly Akimbo would play at the National Theatre, I grabbed a ticket. (I love seeing shows solo or with my theater-critic daughter.) I attended the June 30 performance at 7:30 PM (Row F, Seat 109). As I filed into the house, I was surprised to see the theater only half full. But a small crowd doesn’t always spoil the vibe, especially close to the stage. I hadn’t seen this show before but knew the basics: Kimberly has progeria and is aging fast, with plenty of music and dancing along the way. The cast delivered strong performances, especially Jim Hogan (Buddy), Emily Koch (Debra), and Miguel Gil (Wes). Unfortunately, even their excellent work couldn’t make me like this show. The music was fun in the moment but instantly forgettable—like cotton candy. The plot was even more frustrating. Sure, theater asks us to suspend disbelief, but Kimberly’s easy forgiveness of her family, the implausible check fraud subplot, and the Grease-like ending (where Kimberly dies young and Wes takes care of her?) all left me cold. Adding to the disappointment was the frigid air conditioning blasting the front rows. Everyone was bundled up, and I even stuffed my sandals in my purse for extra insulation. An usher confirmed this has been a recurring problem with no fix in sight. I usually avoid the Kennedy Center because of the politics, but unless the National lets me bring a blanket, I’m not sure I’ll be back anytime soon. Bottom line: I wouldn’t recommend this show for the price. I wish I could see those three standout performers again—in a different show, and in a warmer seat.
We loved the show! The National is a perfect venue for this musical. The touring company was great. All of the actors were extremely talented. Loved the music as well.