The production will run at the Hampstead Theatre from the 28th August until the 7th November.
It has been announced that Maria Friedman will star as Kimberly in the upcoming European premiere of the Tony Award winning musical Kimberley Akimbo, written by David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesor.
Directed in a new production by Michael Longhurst, Maria Friedman’s numerous accolades include three Olivier Awards and eight Olivier nominations plus recognition from the WhatsOnStage, Evening Standard, Critics’ Circle Awards and many others for her work across both the West End and Broadway.
Talking about the news Maria Friedman said: “I couldn’t be more thrilled to be bringing Kimberly Levaco to life. She’s such a beautifully complex character – full of hope, humour and this fierce determination to live every moment to the fullest, even when time isn’t on her side. It’s rare to find a role that is this funny, heartbreaking and life-affirming all at once and I feel incredibly lucky to step into her world.”
Meanwhile, director Michael Longhurst commented: “An eight-time Olivier Award nominee and three-time winner, Maria Friedman is unquestionably one of our greats – so I am over the moon that she is returning to the stage to lead my production of Kimberly Akimbo – a match made in heaven for Jeanine Tesori’s Tony-winning score, and David Lindsay-Abaire’s Tony-winning book. Maria’s indomitable spirit, world renown vocals and comic elan will offer an unforgettable portrayal of this beautifully unique character in this life-affirming entertainment.”
Kimberly Levaco is excited to celebrate her upcoming sweet 16 – never mind the fact she looks 74, due to a rare genetic condition prematurely ageing her about four times faster than her friends. Or, she would be excited if her family hadn’t suddenly moved town under suspect circumstances, meaning she’s a little short on friends right now. And whilst her heart may be biologically ahead of its time, it’s starting to beat a little quicker after meeting Seth from the ice rink…
Kim doesn’t have long to explore the world beyond New Jersey, but she’s damn sure she’s going to once she can afford it. With her dysfunctional parents a little tight on cash, her ex-con aunt shows up with a get-rich-quick scam, and Kim’s all in for the adventure – illegal or not. Can Kim, along with Seth and her new show-choir friends, pull off the heist, find first love and have the great adventures they’ve been dreaming of?
Further casting and creative team have yet to be announced.
To book tickets visit: https://www.hampsteadtheatre.com/whats-on/2026/kimberly-akimbo/