The new play at the Ensemble Theatre was the American play ‘Kimberly Akimbo’ by Los Angeles playwright David Lindsay-Abaire.
The play tells the story of sixteen year old Kimberly (Melissa Jaffer) who is a 16 year old teenager who faces two big battles. She suffers from a nasty disease where her body has aged severely and quickly, and is certain to cut years off her life. She also suffered from having to interact with a very dysfunctional family,
She has to cope with a heavily pregnant volatile mother, Pattie (Dina Panozza), a rarely sober father, Buddy (Rupert Cox), and a homeless scam-artist Aunt Debra (Anni Finsterer).
On top of this Kimberly has to bear the pangs of first love/crush with a school friend Jeff (Ben Mortley).

My take on ‘Kimberly Akimbo’…this was a screwball comedy with the emphasis being on its oddball, screwball characters.
My gut reaction at that crucial time when the lights went down, signaling the play’s finish, was that this play was a winner.
The play had a delicious recipe. It featured such a strong, touching journey for its main character as well as it generally being great fun.
Opening night went down a treat. This Australian premiere production was a strong one. Kate Gaul directed the production confidently. This was such a strong cast with everyone making their contribution.
Veteran actress Melissa Jaffer was excellent in the main role. She meets the challenge well, having to tap into being so emotionally young but with a body so aged.
Dino Panozzo was a stand-out as Kimberly’s outrageous mother. She is such a volatile, extroverted actress and this is a perfect role for her.
Rupert Cox gave a strong comic performance as her father, a caring father but one who says the most inappropriate things.
Anni Finsterer had a good energy as her crazy, frenetic Auntie. Ben Mortley was fine as her nerdy love interest, Jeff.

How did I rate Kimberly Akimbo compared to like minded plays? Highly. I loved its quirkiness and emotional honesty.