the mommy avenger

When a Broadway powerhouse like Kimberly Akimbo lands in Salt Lake City, it’s a rare treat—especially for a Jersey girl like me who thrives on the quirks and charm of the Garden State. Currently running the Eccles Theater through December 15, 2024, this Tony Award-winning musical delivers a perfect blend of heartfelt storytelling, stellar performances, and laugh-out-loud humor. If you haven’t yet grabbed your tickets, consider this your sign to experience one of Broadway’s best right here in Utah.

Set in suburban New Jersey, Kimberly Akimbo nails the distinct vibe of the state with uncanny accuracy. From the quick wit to the unpolished charm of its characters, every moment feels authentically Jersey. For those of us who grew up navigating turnpike exits and small-town dramas, the nods to New Jersey’s idiosyncrasies are a delightful touchstone.

But it’s not just a New Jersey love letter—it’s a universal story about resilience and finding joy in unexpected places. The show balances hilarity with poignancy as Kimberly, a teenager living with a rare genetic condition, tackles challenges that range from the everyday to the extraordinary.

With a nine-person cast, every role matters, and this ensemble doesn’t miss a beat. At the heart of the story is Carolee Carmello as Kimberly. A Broadway veteran, Carmello brings a nuanced depth to the role, effortlessly toggling between Kimberly’s youthful exuberance and the gravity of her situation. She’s endearing, heartbreaking, and ultimately triumphant—exactly the kind of lead performance you’d hope for in a show like this.

Miguel Gil, as Seth, Kimberly’s quirky classmate and budding love interest, lights up the stage with his charm and sincerity. His chemistry with Carmello adds a layer of sweetness that anchors the show’s feel-good moments.

Then there’s Emily Koch as Debra, Kimberly’s scheming yet lovable aunt. Koch is the comedic MVP, delivering laugh-out-loud moments while still grounding her character’s outlandish antics in genuine emotion. She perfectly captures Debra’s chaotic energy, making her both a source of humor and an unexpected catalyst for some of the story’s more touching revelations.

What’s most remarkable about Kimberly Akimbo is how it uses humor to explore weighty themes like mortality, family dysfunction, and seizing the moment. This isn’t a show that wallows in its subject matter—instead, it celebrates life’s messy, unpredictable beauty.

The musical numbers, crafted by the talented duo of Jeanine Tesori and David Lindsay-Abaire , amplify these themes with wit and heart. Whether it’s a tender ballad or a rollicking ensemble number, every song serves the story, leaving you humming and reflecting long after the curtain falls.

Despite its heavy themes, Kimberly Akimbo is an overwhelmingly uplifting experience. You’ll laugh, cry, and walk away with a renewed appreciation for the little joys in life. For me, as someone who’s deeply tied to New Jersey’s culture, the show was a nostalgic reminder of home. But its message of hope and resilience transcends geography—it’s a story that resonates with everyone.

If you’re in Salt Lake City, you still have time to see this extraordinary production. Kimberly Akimbo runs through December 15, 2024 at the Eccles Theater and you will not want to miss it! Tickets start at $59 and are available through ArtTix.

^{*we were invited to facilitate a feature, all opinions are our own*}