Exploring Life’s Quirks: A Dive into “Kimberly Akimbo”
Set against the backdrop of suburban New Jersey in 1999, ‘Kimberly Akimbo’ is a poignant and humorous exploration of adolescence filtered through the lens of extraordinary circumstances. The story centres on Kimberly Levaco, a bright and spirited teenage girl, portrayed with remarkable depth by Marina Prior. Kimberly lives with Progeria, a rare genetic disorder that causes her to age at four times the normal rate, making her experience of growing up uniquely challenging.
Despite her condition, Kimberly possesses an indomitable spirit and a fierce determination to navigate her teenage years on her own terms. Surrounded by a chaotic and colourful family, including her well-meaning but hapless parents, Patsy ‘Pattie’ Levaco, played by Christie Whelan Browne and Buddy Levaco played by Nathan O’Keefe.
Kimberly’s world is a blend of love, dysfunction, and unexpected hilarity. Her family dynamics are anything but typical, as they balance their everyday trials with the absurdity of their circumstances.
Speaking exclusively with Christie Whelan Browne she says, “my character Pattie is described in the show as a narcissist, but I think she is a deeply wounded person who has a daughter with a terminal illness, and she doesn’t have the emotional tools to deal with that properly. She has her own physical ailments and decides to have a replacement baby, because Kimberly’s 16th birthday is coming up which is her life expectancy. Pattie is an emotionally stunted woman, but she does love Kimberly very much.”
Christie says that the audience will love Kimberly’s zest for life despite her challenges and even though illness is terrible and debilitating it doesn’t change someone’s heart on the inside.
Christie adds, “Marina Prior is a star in every sense of the word, she’s graceful and the consummate professional and never takes herself too seriously. Mariana is joyful to be around and more youthful than I am.”
Casey who plays Debra the wicked aunt is Christie’s sister in the musical. Christie says, “ I couldn’t ask for a better person to play a sister because Casey is a loyal and supportive wonderful person off stage, and she brings that on stage as well.”
The essence of “Kimberly Akimbo” lies in its authentic portrayal of adolescence, complete with schoolyard misfits and budding friendships. Kimberly’s friendships with an eclectic group of peers, including Marty (Marty Alix), Delia (Allycia Angeles), Teresa (Alana Iannace), Aaron (Jacob Rozario), and Seth Weetis (Darcy Wain), add layers of relatability and humour to the narrative. Each character brings their own quirks and insecurities, creating a rich tapestry that resonates with anyone who has ever felt out of place.
Adding to the chaos is Kimberly’s Aunt Debra played by Casey Donovan, whose illegal fraud schemes inject a wild streak into the story. Debra’s antics provide a crass charm that complements the offbeat humour woven throughout the narrative and Casey is perfectly cast to play this part providing incredible humour and I have to say her vocals are a standout through the production.
The absurdity of Kimberly’s life is cleverly juxtaposed with her desire for normalcy, creating a compelling tension that keeps audiences both laughing and reflecting.
“Kimberly Akimbo” leans into the absurd, embracing the unexpected turns of life with a refreshing boldness. Its irreverent edge challenges societal norms about youth, beauty, and the meaning of living fully. Kimberly’s journey is not just about grappling with her physical limitations; it’s about embracing her identity and seizing every moment, no matter how chaotic or unconventional.
Written by Melinda Sullivan
Photography by Melinda Sullivan
For more information please visit https://www.mtc.com.au/plays-and-tickets/whats-on/season-2025/kimberly-akimbo-a-musical/
