Name: Kimberly Akimbo
Start: 2026-08-28T19:30:00+00:00
Location: Hampstead Theatre

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?
David Lindsay-Abaire (Good People, Rabbit Hole) and Jeanine Tesori's (Caroline, or Change, Fun Home) profoundly funny and heartwarming musical was the winner of five 2023 Tony Awards including Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book. It receives its much-anticipated European premiere in a new production by Michael Longhurst (Caroline, or Change, Between Riverside and Crazy and Gloria). His recent Olivier Award nominated production of Next to Normal transferred from a sold-out run at the Donmar to the West End.
One of the most acclaimed performers in musical theatre, Maria Friedman will star as Kimberly. She is a four-time Olivier Award winner, with nine nominations and a Tony nomination, and has also won multiple awards from What’s on Stage, Evening Standard, Theatre World and Critics’ Circle Awards, including Broadway Best Newcomer as well as a Drama Desk Award, for her work across both the West End and Broadway.
📍 Venue Description: The Hampstead Theatre is a leading force in new writing, known for discovering, developing and premiering original plays from bold new voices. Located in Swiss Cottage in North London, the venue features a contemporary, purpose-built auditorium with a flexible capacity of up to 325 seats, and a studio space, the Michael Frayn Space, used for emerging artists and experimental works. Whether showcasing the next big playwright or revisiting powerful revivals, the Hampstead Theatre London champions stories that speak to the present moment.
For over six decades, the Hampstead Theatre has played a crucial role in shaping British theatre culture. With its sharp focus on relevant, politically engaged work, the Hampstead Theatre continues to attract theatregoers with a taste for fresh, thought-provoking drama in an intimate, architecturally striking venue.
### The History of Hampstead Theatre
The Hampstead Theatre was established in 1959 by director James Roose-Evans, who opened the original Hampstead Theatre Club in a church hall. Early seasons featured now-legendary playwrights including Harold Pinter, Eugene Ionesco and Ann Jellicoe. In 1962, the company relocated to a portable hut in Swiss Cottage, where it thrived for 40 years before moving into its current purpose-built venue in 2003.
The Hampstead Theatre has since become a breeding ground for many of the UK’s most celebrated writers. Names like Mike Leigh, Abi Morgan, Hanif Kureishi and debbie tucker green all saw early work produced here. Its focus on nurturing emerging talent, staging urgent new writing, and creating space for experimentation has cemented the Hampstead Theatre London as a vital part of the national cultural conversation.
### Where is Hampstead Theatre?
The Hampstead Theatre is located at Eton Avenue, Swiss Cottage, London NW3 3EU, in the Borough of Camden. The venue is just moments from Swiss Cottage station and the cultural hub of Finchley Road. It’s easily accessible from central London and sits close to local landmarks like the Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre and South Hampstead station.
### Hampstead Theatre Nearest Tube
The Hampstead Theatre nearest tube is Swiss Cottage (Jubilee Line), which is just a 1-minute walk from the theatre. Exit the station, turn left, and the theatre is directly ahead across Eton Avenue. Finchley Road (Metropolitan and Jubilee Lines) is also nearby—around 8 minutes on foot.
### Hampstead Theatre Nearest Train Station
The closest train station to Hampstead Theatre is South Hampstead, served by London Overground. From the station, it’s a 10-minute walk. Simply head east on Loudoun Road, then take a left on Eton Avenue to reach the theatre.
### Buses to Hampstead Theatre
A number of London bus routes stop close to the Hampstead Theatre. Daytime routes include the 13, 31, 46, 113, 187, 268 and C11. Night buses such as the N113 also serve the area. The closest bus stops are Swiss Cottage Station / Finchley Road and Avenue Road / Swiss Cottage Library, both less than a minute’s walk from the venue entrance.
### Hampstead Theatre Accessibility
The Hampstead Theatre is fully accessible, with step-free access throughout the building, including the main auditorium and studio space. Accessible toilets are available, and wheelchair users can book designated seating. The theatre also offers captioned and audio-described performances throughout the year.
### Hampstead Theatre Safety Policy
Hampstead Theatre prioritises the safety and wellbeing of all guests and staff. Visitors may be subject to bag checks upon entry, and latecomers are admitted at a suitable pause in the performance. For any show-specific safety policies, consult the official theatre website before your visit.
### Hampstead Theatre Dress Code
There’s no formal dress code at the Hampstead Theatre. Most visitors opt for smart-casual attire, though you’re welcome to dress up if you would prefer. Whether you’re seeing a world premiere or a relaxed matinee, comfort is key. Read our [What to Wear Guide](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/news/what-to-wear-theatre "What to Wear Guide") to find out more.
### Hampstead Theatre Notable Productions
The Hampstead Theatre has staged numerous acclaimed shows, including Ecstasy by Mike Leigh, The Dumb Waiter by Harold Pinter, plus Award-winning productions such as Sunny Afternoon, and Blackout Songs, The Animal Kingdom plus The Invention of Love. These productions helped shape the theatre’s legacy as a launchpad for boundary-pushing work.
### Hampstead Theatre Seating Plan
The Hampstead Theatre seating plan offers a modern, flexible auditorium that can hold between 150 and 325 people depending on the production. Seating is raked, ensuring excellent sightlines from every row. The intimate layout offers a close connection between performers and audience, enhancing the dramatic experience.
The Michael Frayn Studio downstairs holds around 80 people and is often used for experimental works and new writing. Whether you’re seated front and centre or further back, the Hampstead Theatre seat view delivers clarity, comfort, and a deep sense of immersion. Step-free access and dedicated wheelchair spaces ensure all theatregoers can enjoy the performance. Read our [Best Seats Guide](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/news/hampstead-theatre-best-seats "Best Seats Guide") to help you decide where to sit.
✨ Experience the magic of Kimberly Akimbo, where moments become memories that last a lifetime! 🏛️ The iconic Hampstead Theatre in London, EN sets the perfect stage for an unforgettable celebration on August 28th, 2026 at 07:30 PM. 🌟 It's been a curated experience that brings together the best of entertainment and innovation, creating an atmosphere of wonder and excitement. From the moment you arrive, you'll be immersed in a world where the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary. 🎟️ Secure your spot with tickets at 49.00 GBP. 🎊 Book early to secure your place in what promises to be an event that will be talked about for years to come!