News Summary
The first national tour of the Tony Award-winning musical ‘Kimberly Akimbo’ is coming to the Emerson Colonial Theatre in Boston from May 6 to May 18. Featuring Carolee Carmello as the lead, the production has received five Tony Awards, including Best Musical. With a compelling narrative drawn from David Lindsay-Abaire’s comedy, the show explores themes of family, loneliness, and the pursuit of happiness. The tour promises an uplifting experience for audiences, showcasing the rich talent and stories Broadway has to offer.
Boston, MA – The first national tour of the Tony Award-winning musical “Kimberly Akimbo” is set to enchant audiences at the Emerson Colonial Theatre from May 6 to May 18. Featuring acclaimed actress Carolee Carmello, known for her robust theatrical career and three Tony Award nominations, the production promises a blend of heartfelt storytelling and captivating performances.
“Kimberly Akimbo” won a total of five Tony Awards in 2023, including Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical, and Best Original Score. The musical boasts a compelling score by Tony Award winner Jeanine Tesori, recognized for her work on “Fun Home”, along with a book and lyrics crafted by Boston native David Lindsay-Abaire, a distinguished playwright and winner of both a Tony Award and a Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
The narrative of “Kimberly Akimbo” is drawn from Lindsay-Abaire’s 2001 comedy, which tells the story of a teenage girl named Kimberly Levaco, who lives with a condition akin to progeria. This rare disorder results in her appearing significantly older than her age, presenting a unique set of conflicts and emotional challenges that resonate throughout the musical.
The themes explored in the show include loneliness, family secrets, unexpected mood swings, and the enduring pursuit of happiness. The production initially premiered off-Broadway at the Linda Gross Theater in December 2021 before moving to Broadway’s Booth Theatre on November 9, 2022, where it is scheduled to run until April 28, 2024.
Carmello, who plays the title character, highlights the complexity of portraying Kimberly’s spirit while navigating the character’s contrasting physical appearance. With a dynamic background including iconic roles in productions such as “Falsettos”, “Parade”, “Mamma Mia!”, “Hello, Dolly!”, and “Sister Act”, Carmello brings a depth of experience to the tour. She notes the importance of embodying the upbeat essence of Kimberly amidst the reminders of her challenging situation.
Since embarking on its tour in September 2024, “Kimberly Akimbo” has captivated audiences across the nation. The emotional landscape of the musical, recognized for its humorous yet poignant writing, invites viewers to connect deeply with the storyline and characters. The production aims to uplift audiences, encouraging them to embrace and appreciate their own lives more fully.
Overall, the tour of “Kimberly Akimbo” represents a significant cultural offering, showcasing not only stellar talent but also the rich narratives that Broadway has to offer. As Carmello transitions into the lead role, previously held by Tony Award-winner Victoria Clark, her interpretation promises to continue the legacy of this groundbreaking production.
With its timely themes and relatable characters, “Kimberly Akimbo” is poised to leave a lasting impact on the Boston theater scene, drawing audiences from all walks of life to experience its heartfelt message.
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Additional Resources
- Vulture: Broadway Shows and Musicals
- Wikipedia: Kimberly Akimbo
- TimeOut: Broadway’s Best Shows
- Google Search: Kimberly Akimbo
- Broadway World: Things to Do Near NYC’s Theatre District
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Musical Theatre
Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER
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