One Life, No Encores: Kimberly Akimbo's Poignant Lesson in Living Fully

By Joanie Cox Henry

The Kravis Center's touring production of Kimberly Akimbo doesn't just meet expectations—it soars past them. Having witnessed Victoria Clark's luminous original performance off-Broadway in New York City in 2024, I arrived prepared to admire a competent touring production. Instead, I discovered a company that has made this Tony-winning musical entirely their own, delivering a performance that stands confidently and with plenty of its own rainbow sparkle alongside the production that first captivated audiences. Kimberly Akimbo opened at Kravis Center on 11/11 and it was a wish come true for me to see this musical in my home state!

Ann Morrison steps into the formidable role of Kimberly Levaco with remarkable assurance, charting her own course through this character's accelerated existence. Levaco's character has a Progeria-like illness that is causing her to age much more rapidly than an average 16 year old.

While Clark's interpretation remains definitive, Morrison discovers fresh nuances in the teenager trapped in an aging body. Her performance understands what makes this show revolutionary: it refuses to treat Kimberly's condition as mere metaphor, instead honoring the specificity of her experience while illuminating universal truths about mortality and the connections we build while we're here.

The ensemble proves equally adept at navigating Lindsay-Abaire's tonal tightrope. Sarah Lynn Marion's Aunt Debra deserves particular mention—her scheming matriarch crackles with anarchic energy while maintaining the character's wounded core. This character is audacious and salacious and one of my favorites in the show.

The supporting players create a vivid portrait of suburban New Jersey family putting the fun in dysfunction!

Tesori's score continues to astound. From the infectious optimism of "Skater Planet" to quieter moments of introspection, the music serves the story without overwhelming it. And there are some priceless numbers such as a the tender "Father Time" and the cheeky tune "Better," which offers the hardcore advice: When opportunity knocks, when possibility calls, take the bull by the horns and grab life by the balls!"

As Kimberly Levaco would say "smiley face!"

This show locates humor and heartbreak in equal measure, honoring both without diminishing either. This is theater that matters and humbling reminder that no one gets a second time around so you might as well enjoy the ride!

Kimberly Akimbo runs through Nov. 16, 2025 at Kravis Center. For tickets and more information, visit https://www.kravis.org/events/kimberly-akimbo.

After this show wraps in South Florida, the cast and crew will head to Tampa and then the tour continues across America. https://kimberlyakimbothemusical.com.

Here are some images from opening night with my son Jack: