You’ve probably never seen a musical quite like Kimberly Akimbo. It’s funny, heartbreaking, and weird in the best way possible. The five-time Tony Award winner is stopping at Walton Arts Center this December with a story about a teenager navigating first love, family chaos, and a rare genetic condition that’s aging her faster than normal.
Source: Walton Arts Center
THE DEETS
📅 Tuesday–Sunday, December 9-14, 2025
📍 Baum Walker Hall at Walton Arts Center, Fayetteville
🔗 More info
Why Critics Can’t Stop Talking About It
The New York Times called it “profoundly funny and deeply moving,” while The New Yorker dubbed it a “howlingly funny heartbreaker.” Critics don’t usually pair those words together, but Kimberly Akimbo earned every one of them when it swept the 2023 Tony Awards with five wins, including Best Musical.
Source: Walton Arts Center
The show doesn’t preach or get sentimental about its heavier themes. Instead, it finds humor in uncomfortable situations and lets emotional moments land naturally, without telegraphing them. You’ll laugh at things you probably shouldn’t, then find yourself surprisingly moved by a song or scene you didn’t see coming. That balance is what sets it apart from musicals that lean too hard in one direction.
The Talent Behind the Show
Jeanine Tesori composed the score, and if you caught Fun Home on Broadway, you already know she’s got a Tony under her belt. David Lindsay-Abaire handled the book and lyrics (he also wrote Shrek the Musical), while Danny Mefford brought his choreography skills from Dear Evan Hansen. Jessica Stone directs the touring production, keeping all the heart and humor of the original Broadway run intact.
Source: Walton Arts Center
Make It a Night in Downtown Fayetteville
Walton Arts Center sits right in the heart of downtown Fayetteville, giving you plenty of options to build out your evening. Grab dinner on Dickson Street before the show, or head out for drinks and dessert afterward. With performances running Tuesday through Sunday, you can catch a weeknight showing or make it your weekend plans.
Source: Walton Arts Center
The show is recommended for ages 13 and up since it tackles real themes about family, mortality, and finding joy in difficult circumstances. Bring your teenagers or your friends who appreciate musicals that don’t treat their audience like they need everything sugar-coated.
