Music Theatre International (MTI) has announced the acquisition of “Kimberly Akimbo,” winner of five 2023 Tony Awards. With the deal, the musical will be made available for licensing to community and school groups.
“‘Kimberly Akimbo’ is an instant classic, thanks to the exceptional talents of Jeanine Tesori and David Lindsay-Abaire,” said Drew Cohen, president and CEO of MTI, in a statement. “These two authors created a warm, funny and deeply moving show that speaks to the teenager in all of us. We are thrilled to welcome this hit musical into the MTI catalog and look forward to seeing the show play on countless stages across the world.”
Adapted to Tony-winning effect by book writer Lindsay-Abaire from his 2003 play of the same name, “Kimberly Akimbo” features a Tony-winning score by Tesori. The musical was also named Best Musical by the Tonys, in addition to earning acting wins for Victoria Clark and Bonnie Milligan.
“Kimberly Akimbo” centers on the titular Kimberly, who is about to turn 16 and recently moved with her family to a new town in suburban New Jersey. Kim is forced to navigate family dysfunction, her first crush — and a rare genetic condition, which causes her to age at a pace four times faster than is typical.
“At its heart, ‘Kimberly Akimbo’ is about making the most of whatever time we have on this planet. Our heroine craves adventure and connection and is determined to be seen as the person she truly is,” added Lindsay-Abaire and Tesori in a joint statement. “We’re beyond thrilled that our journey on it will continue now that the show is available for licensing and will be performed in theaters all over the world.”
Music Theatre International works to grant theaters the rights to perform musicals from Broadway and beyond. The licenser was founded in 1952 by composer Frank Loesser and orchestrator Don Walker. MTI collaborates directly with composers, lyricists and book writers to provide official scripts, musical materials and theatrical resources to more than 100,000 professional, community and school theaters in the U.S. and in over 150 countries worldwide.
“Kimberly Akimbo” began Broadway previews on Oct. 12, 2022, and officially opened on Nov. 10 at the Booth Theatre. The musical played its final Main Stem performance on April 28, 2024 and is currently receiving a national tour.
