Following its recent critically acclaimed season in Adelaide, Kimberly Akimbo: A Musical premieres in Melbourne tonight (Wednesday 30 July), making its home in the Playhouse – Arts Centre Melbourne for a strictly limited season.
Off the back of it Broadway success, winning five Tony Awards – including Best Musical – this joyous show is set to delight musical theatre fans. Defying expectations, the story of Kimberly Akimbo brings deeply moving moments, laughter, and an affirming reminder to live life to the fullest.
Directed by four-time Helpmann Award-winner Mitchell Butel, the show features a dream cast including Marina Prior (Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular, The Phantom of the Opera, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee), Casey Donovan (Chicago, 9 to 5 The Musical, Sister Act) and Christie Whelan Browne (Muriel’s Wedding the Musical, Britney Spears: The Cabaret, As You Like It); as well as the incredibly talented Marty Alix, Allycia Angeles, Alana Iannace, Nathan O’Keefe, Jacob Rozario and Darcy Wain.
With music by Jeanine Tesori (Fun Home and Caroline, or Change) and a book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire, Kimberly Akimbo delivers soaring melodies and razor-sharp wit. Set in suburban New Jersey in 1999, Kimberly Akimbo follows a bright teenage girl (played by Marina Prior) with a rare genetic condition that causes her to age at four times the normal rate.
Surrounded by chaotic family members (Christie Whelan Browne as Patsy “Pattie” Levaco Kim’s mum, and Nathan O’Keefe as Buddy Levaco, Kim’s dad), schoolyard misfits (Marty Alix as Martin, Allycia Angeles as Delia, Alana Iannace as Teresa, Jacob Rozario as Aaron and Darcy Wain as Seth Weetis) and an illegal fraud scheme courtesy of her criminal aunt (Casey Donovan as Aunt Debra), Kimberly is determined to live life on her own terms.
With its offbeat humour, crass charm and irreverent edge, Kimberly Akimbo leans into the absurdity of its premise. The result is bold and fresh.
“A musical heroine like no other and a story that is equal parts rich human drama, joy and laughter, and unconventional romance,” says Melbourne Theatre Company Artistic Director & Co-CEO Anne-Louise Sarks. “We’re thrilled to bring this unforgettable production to Melbourne audiences with an extraordinary cast and creative team. This is one you do not want to miss”.
The creative team includes: Mitchell Butel (Director), Jeanine Tesori (Music), David Lindsay-Abaire (Book & Lyrics), Kym Purling (Musical Director), Amy Campbell (Choreographer), Jonathon Oxlade (Set Designer), Ailsa Paterson (Costume Designer), Matt Scott (Lighting Designer), Andrew Poppleton (Sound Designer), Matt Byrne (Video Content Creator), Jennifer Innes (Accent Coach) and Annabel Matheson (Intimacy Coordinator).
Kimberly Akimbo: A Musical
Playhouse – Arts Centre Melbourne, 100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne
Season continues to 30 August 2025
Information and Bookings: www.mtc.com.au
Image: The Cast of Kimberly Akimbo: A Musical – photo by Jo Duck / Claudio Raschella