‘Kimberly Akimbo’ highlights the idea that it’s never too late to embark on an adventure.

The acclaimed Tony Award-winning musical Kimberly Akimbo has made its debut at the Academy of Music, a move facilitated by Ensemble Arts Philly. This production elaborates on an unusual tale centered around a teenage girl, Kimberly Levaco, portrayed by Ann Morrison. Kimberly suffers from a unique genetic disorder that accelerates her aging process; at just 16 years old, she appears to be in her sixties.

Rather than following a traditional plot arc, the musical serves as an intimate character study that delves deeply into Kimberly’s life, and her interactions with family and friends. Living with her parents, Pattie and Buddy, as well as her Aunt Debra, portrayed by Laura Woyasz, Jim Hogan, and Emily Koch, respectively, Kimberly navigates a world where her well-being often takes a backseat to the challenges faced by those around her.

The musical’s score, composed by Jeanine Tesori, offers a listening experience that is enjoyable yet lacking in memorable melodies that audiences might carry home. In comparison to Tesori’s previous work on Fun Home, Kimberly Akimbo opts for a subtler and less conventional approach. While the music may not be catchy, it effectively complements the script, drawing the audience into Kimberly’s emotional landscape and fostering empathy for her character.

Leading the outstanding ensemble cast, Morrison seamlessly embodies Kimberly’s youthful aspirations while also conveying the physicality associated with her condition. Her vocal performance strikes a balance between maturity and youthful innocence, creating a compelling portrayal of a young woman trapped within an aging body. Miguel Gil, who plays Seth—Kimberly’s friend and partner in mischief—delivers an endearing performance, infusing the character with a charming nerdiness that captivates the audience.

Despite its emotional depth and character-driven story, the production’s intimate narrative risks being lost within the expansive setting of the Academy of Music. At times, the vast space presents challenges in delivering a personable experience, as actors struggle to project effectively, leading to moments where diction lacks clarity.

Ultimately, Kimberly Akimbo holds a poignant message: life should be lived to its fullest while we have the chance. The narrative avoids falling into the trap of sentimentality, opting instead for sincerity as it inspires the audience to embark on their own adventures, epitomized in a final call to action that resonates with its viewers.

Kimberly Akimbo runs through November 2 at 240 S Broad St, Philadelphia. For further details, including ticket information, visitors can explore Ensemble Arts Philly’s website. This production, while distinctively personal, invites a wider reflection on the human experience and the fleeting nature of life.