Ah, the 1990s. When nerds were called ‘goobers’, coffee could help facilitate sobriety and architectural aesthetics were nothing if not geometrical.

It’s 1999 and time is running out for Kimberly (Marina Prior). Born with a genetic rarity that ages her at four times the rate everyone else experiences, her upcoming birthday will likely be her last. Kimberly’s bucket list has more than just a child-like quality.

Kimberly Akimbo is written by Pulitzer Prize winner David Lindsay-Abaire (book and lyrics) and Jeanine Tesori (music), the most prolific and honoured female theatrical composer in history.

Mitchell Butel brings plenty of passion and precision to his meticulous directing. The offbeat and somewhat unpredictable story line is also aided by Amy Campbell’s seamless choreography and the all-star cast.

Christie Whelan Browne, Marina Prior and Nathan O’Keefe in Kimberly Akimbo. Photo © Sam Roberts

New to town after a sudden move, Kimberly’s childlike enthusiasm and fragility are played convincingly by Prior, and her depiction of a troubled girl with immense underlying strength is compelling. Wise beyond her years, and with knowledge beyond her schooling, she also plays the role of...