Is Kimberly Akimbo Based on a True Story? The Plot, Reviews, and More
by Vignesh L
Updated Jun 20, 2023
Kimberly Akimbo
Kimberly Akimbo is a play penned by David Lindsay-Abaire in 2000. The play revolves around its eponymous character, Kimberly, a teenage girl plagued by a condition resembling progeria. This ailment causes her to age at an accelerated rate, leaving her confined within the fragile body of an elderly woman.
In her solitude, Kimberly crosses paths with another outcast, a teenage boy, and their bond borders on a complex mix of attraction and companionship. However, their relationship becomes further complicated by Kimberly's rapidly deteriorating health. As the narrative unfolds, Kimberly's family becomes entangled in a series of eccentric money-making schemes, resulting in emotional devastation within the family unit.
Is Kimberly Akimbo Based on a True Story?
No, Kimberly Akimbo is not based on a true story. The Broadway play is an adaptation of David Lindsay-Abaire's 2000 play with the same title. The character in the play suffers from a medical condition that resembles progeria, causing her to age 4.5 times faster than a person of the same age.
The original play premiered at the South Coast Repertory in Costa Mesa, California, from April 13 to May 13, 2001. For his writing, David Lindsay-Abaire received the Kesselring Prize in 2001. The revival of Kimberly Akimbo had its first performance as an Off-Broadway show at the Atlantic Theater Company in 2021. In the same year, it was also staged at the Booth Theater in Manhattan.
The Broadway production of Kimberly Akimbo was co-written by David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori. The play has a runtime of two hours and 25 minutes and features 16 songs, including "Skater Planet," "Hello Darling," "Make A Wish," "Better," "Father Time," "Happy for Her," and more. If you're interested, you can also learn about the true story behind the "Butchers of the Bayou" series.
Kimberly Akimbo Reviews
Kimberly Akimbo has garnered acclaim for its poignant and thought-provoking storytelling. The play delves into the life of Kimberly, a young girl with a rare condition that accelerates her aging process. Audiences have praised the impeccable performances that bring Kimberly's journey to life, evoking empathy and a deep emotional connection.
The writing by David Lindsay-Abaire showcases a perfect balance of humor and heartache, exploring themes of family, identity, and the complexities of human relationships. The revival of the play, featuring the co-writing talents of Jeanine Tesori, has breathed new life into the production, captivating theatergoers with its compelling narrative and resonant characters.
The integration of songs adds another layer of depth to the experience, enhancing the overall theatrical experience. Kimberly Akimbo continues to leave a lasting impact on its audiences, provoking introspection and leaving them with a renewed appreciation for the complexities of life.
Kimberly Akimbo Cast
Kimberly
16
A girl played by a woman in her 60s or 70s, dealing with a rare condition
Buddy
Mid-30s
Kimberly's father, flawed yet loving
Jeff
16
Awkward and unpopular teenage boy
Pattie
Mid-30s
Very pregnant woman, Buddy's wife
Debra
Early 30s
Pattie's sister, an ex-convict
Character
Age
Description
Kimberly Akimbo Plot
The scene opens with Kimberly sitting and patiently waiting for her father, who is running late due to his drinking habits. To make it up to her, he suggests they go to a burger joint for some food. At the restaurant, they encounter Jeff, a nerdy kid working behind the counter, who asks if Kimberly would be willing to participate in an interview for his project.
However, Buddy, Kimberly's father, adamantly refuses and drives off. The next scene shows Pattie, Kimberly's mother, speaking into a sound recorder, addressing her unborn child and reflecting on her life, expressing her belief that she is a "good mother." Later on, Kimberly contacts Jeff and agrees to meet him at the library for the interview, as he is studying progeria.
Is Kimberly Akimbo Based on a true Story - FAQs
No, Kimberly Akimbo is not based on a true story. It is a play written by David Lindsay-Abaire in 2000, featuring a fictional character named Kimberly who suffers from a condition resembling progeria.
Kimberly Akimbo has a runtime of two hours and 25 minutes.
The Broadway production of Kimberly Akimbo was co-written by David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori.
The play follows Kimberly, a teenage girl with a rare condition that causes her to age rapidly. As she navigates her challenging circumstances, she forms a connection with a teenage boy named Jeff. The story explores their complex relationship and the impact of Kimberly's deteriorating health. Additionally, Kimberly's family becomes involved in eccentric money-making schemes, leading to emotional turmoil within the family unit.
"Kimberly Akimbo" has received acclaim for its poignant storytelling. Audiences have praised the performances and the way the play delves into themes of family, identity, and human relationships. The integration of songs in the revival production has added depth to the experience, resonating with theatergoers and leaving a lasting impact.