How to Survive College Application Season

Amber Ramsey, Guest Writer

The college application process can feel like trying to juggle flaming swords—while blindfolded—on a moving train. There’s pressure to perform, deadlines colliding like bumper cars, and a thousand moving parts that refuse to align. But you don’t have to be swallowed by the chaos. With a little structure, a few smart habits, and a deeper trust in your own rhythm, you can turn this monster into something manageable, even meaningful. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about building a system that lets you breathe, think, and still enjoy your senior year. Here’s how to stay grounded, organized, and keep your stress level from detonating. 

Start With a Digital Nest That Works

You don’t need fancy software or a six-tab Trello board to keep your documents straight. What you do need is a structure that mirrors how your brain works. Take 10 minutes and create a few folders—one for each school—and inside them, stash subfolders for essays, transcripts, resumes, and recommendations. That’s the external skeleton. But don’t stop there. To avoid chaos later, organize all your files clearly and label things in a way your future self can decode. You’re not just filing documents, you’re building a navigable map for every application you submit. 

Tackle the Big Items First

The worst kind of stress is deadline stress. So, start stacking wins early. Get your letters of recommendation locked in the moment your teachers are available to help. Knock out your personal statement rough draft before midterms start eating up your weekends. And get those transcript requests submitted before winter break drama kicks in. It sounds simple, but it changes everything. If you request recommendation letters early, you not only give teachers the time they need, you also prevent the cascading delays that tend to hit all at once.

Visual Systems Beat Mental Notes Every Time

Color-coding isn’t just for planners and perfectionists. It’s a survival tool. Build a spreadsheet that tracks every school’s deadline, required documents, essay questions, and submission platforms. Use colors to flag missing pieces or urgent dates. The goal isn’t aesthetics, it’s visual friction. You want to glance at the tracker and immediately know what needs doing. One way to make that real is to build a college tracking spreadsheet that lets you stop guessing and start seeing. Every red cell is a call to action. Every green cell is peace of mind.

Make Your List Work for You, Not Against You

Here’s where things go sideways: Some students apply only to their dream schools, leaving no margin for disappointment, while others play it too safe and miss out on opportunities. Both approaches create unnecessary pressure. A well-balanced list offers room to breathe and pivots your mindset from desperation to agency. It’s about building optionality, knowing you’ve set yourself up with viable outcomes across the spectrum. The key is to build that mix in a way that reflects your energy and risks your comfort, not someone else’s template. That alone can soften the emotional turbulence when results start landing.

Let People In, Even When You Want to Shut Them Out

The college application process is one that messes with your head. One minute you’re pumped. The next, you’re doomscrolling Reddit threads about acceptance rates and crying into your hoodie. You’re not supposed to carry that alone. Set up a system where you can check in with someone. This someone could be a parent, counselor, or friend. When you’re drowning in anxiety, create a supportive space to share and let someone else hold the tension with you. Not everything has to be solved. Some things just need to be said out loud. 

Small Rituals Keep the Bigger You Intact

If you’re waiting for a weekend with “no distractions” to reset your brain, forget it. What you need are micro-habits that you can slip into your normal day. Take two minutes to breathe with your eyes closed before starting an essay. Go outside for five minutes after submitting a form. The goal isn’t deep zen, it’s traction. These pauses help your brain reboot. By using simple mindfulness moments, the tension doesn’t get to build unchecked. You stay human, not mechanical. And a human is exactly what you need to be to write a killer essay and complete a successful application.

Consider Options That Let You Breathe Easier

Not every great college path involves packing up and moving across the country. For some students, the pressure eases the moment they realize they have flexible, accredited options online. There’s less overhead, less relocation drama, and often more control over your schedule. Those kinds of choices lower the emotional stakes, and makes space for other priorities, like work, caregiving, or creative pursuits. For instance, if you want to work in tech, there are technology‑focused tracks such as computer science that let you build skills in programming, IT, and software development from wherever you are. No matter what track you want, the freedom of an online program changes the whole equation.

The bottom line is you’re not behind, you’re not doing it wrong and this process isn’t a test of who has it all figured out. Rather, it’s a practice in navigating uncertainty. The more you name your stress, the less it owns you. The more you organize, the more space you have for inspiration. And the more you let people in, the more real support you’ll get. College will come. But right now, you get to write the story of how you handled the application season. And if you do it your way, with rhythm, clarity, and a few good breaths, you’ll be just fine.

Should You Go Back to School for a Master’s Degree? Key Factors to Consider

Amber Ramsey, Guest Writer

Note: The following story was written by Guest Writer, Amber Ramsey, of Learn It For Life. 

Deciding whether to pursue a master’s degree is a significant choice that can impact your career, finances, and personal life. While advanced education can open doors to better job opportunities and higher salaries, it also comes with challenges, including cost, time commitment, and the potential for uncertain returns on investment. Before enrolling in a graduate program, you need to weigh various factors to determine if it aligns with your professional and personal goals. Here are the most important aspects to consider when deciding whether to go back to school for a master’s degree.

Career Advancement Potential

One of the main reasons people pursue a master’s degree is to improve their careerprospects. Some fields, such as healthcare, education, and engineering, often require a graduate degree for higher-level positions. In other industries, while a master’s degree may not be mandatory, it can provide an edge in job applications or promotions. Before committing to a program, research whether a master’s degree is essential for your desired career path or if gaining more work experience would be just as valuable.

Financial Investment and Return

Graduate school is expensive, and tuition costs vary depending on the institution and program. Consider how you will finance your education—whether through savings, loans, employer reimbursement, or scholarships. More importantly, think about the potential return on investment. Will your expected salary increase justify the cost of tuition and the time spent in school? If the financial benefits don’t clearly outweigh the costs, it might be worth reconsidering or exploring alternative ways to gain the skills you need.

Time Commitment and Work-Life Balance

Pursuing a master’s degree requires a significant time commitment, typically ranging from one to three years. If you are currently employed, you’ll need to assess whether you can handle the additional workload of graduate studies while maintaining your job. Balancing school with personal responsibilities can also be challenging, especially for those with families or other commitments. Online or part-time programs may offer more flexibility, but they still require careful time management and dedication.

Personal Motivation and Long-Term Goals

Earning an online degree provides the flexibility to balance full-time work with academic advancement, making it an excellent option for busy professionals. By earning a master’s degree in health administration, for instance, you can deepen your understanding of the healthcare industry and develop the leadership skills necessary to guide organizations through complex challenges. Schools with accreditation in online MHA programs allow you to study on your own schedule, ensuring that career responsibilities and personal commitments remain manageable while pursuing higher education.

Passion and Interest in the Field

Beyond career advancement, a genuine interest in the subject matter should be a major factor in your decision. If you’re passionate about learning and expanding your expertise in a specific area, pursuing a master’s degree can be a fulfilling experience. However, if you’re considering graduate school simply because you’re unsure of your next step or feel pressured by external expectations, you might want to explore other options before making a commitment.

Job Market and Industry Trends

The relevance of a master’s degree depends largely on industry trends and job market demands. In some fields, employers highly value specialized knowledge and advanced degrees, while in others, experience and networking play a more significant role. Research job postings and industry forecasts to determine whether a master’s degree will truly enhance your employability. If your field is rapidly evolving, you may also want to consider whether alternative credentials, such as certifications or short-term training programs, could offer similar benefits.

Alternative Paths to Career Growth

A master’s degree is not the only way to advance in your career. Gaining relevant work experience, earning professional certifications, or developing in-demand skills through online courses or workshops can sometimes provide similar or better opportunities. If your goal is career growth, explore all available options before committing to a graduate program. Some industries value hands-on experience more than additional degrees, so it’s essential to determine what will be most beneficial in your specific field.

Earning a master’s degree can be a powerful step toward career growth, higher earnings, and personal fulfillment. However, it’s not a decision to take lightly. Evaluating factors such as career impact, financial costs, time commitment, industry relevance, and personal motivation will help you determine whether graduate school is the right choice for you. By carefully considering these aspects, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and sets you up for success.

Click here to read more about Learn It For Life
Click here to share your work with The Highlander

The Silver Screen is the Star of Sunset Boulevard at the St. James Theatre

Eamon Lujan, Guest Writer

I want to preface this review by saying I did not hate this production, and I fear everything I say next is going to make you think I hate it. I don’t hate it; I desperately need to see this weird show again to better understand it. It is a unique piece of theatre, unlike anything I have ever seen in my life and that’s perhaps why I sound so negative, because I don’t have a good frame of reference for understanding a production like this. If you can, I encourage you all to go see Sunset Boulevard. 

The show I saw was during the week Nicole Scherzinger, the lead actress, was out, and Mandy Gonzales played the titular character, Norma Desmond instead. She is currently billed as a guest star in the show, performing every Tuesday night and any other time Nicole is out. At the performance I attended, all roles played by Emma Lloyd were played by Abby Matsusaka instead. I sat in the front right mezzanine, Row A.

Sunset Boulevard is a revival of the classic Andrew Lloyd Webber musical adapting the even more classic 1950s movie of the same name. This production is directed by Jamie Lloyd, who has been making quite a name for himself lately. Andrew and Jamie have become particularly good business partners, perhaps an intense psychic connection due to the shared name. Jamie is also slated to direct an upcoming revival of Evita on the West End this summer, as well as directing Andrew’s new musical The Illusionist. 

This production of Sunset Boulevard originally premiered on the West End at the Savoy Theatre for a limited run. It has since transferred to Broadway with the same, original cast from its debut. The musical features Andrew Lloyd Webber’s orchestrations and a book and lyrics by Christopher Hampton. In my opinion, a revival should be trying to introduce some new element, and should give us a reason to put this show on stage again. Sunset Boulevard absolutely fulfills that requirement, being a new reimagining of the musical, and one of the boldest steps forward in theatre at large.

The musical follows the same plot as the movie. Joe Gillis, a down on his luck screenwriter, ends up at the residence of Norma Desmond after a police chase. Norma Desmond is a former silent movie star who now lives alone in a luxurious mansion with her butler, Max Von Mayerling. She believes she is still the greatest star who has ever lived and employs Gillis to edit an incoherent and self-serving script she has dedicated her life to writing. She intends this to be her return to the screen, to the millions of fans who have always been waiting for her to return. Slowly, she pulls Gillis further and further under her control, before he meets a grisly end at her hands. (Side note: I don’t quite consider this a spoiler because both the movie and musical open on him being dead and narrating the story. In the musical he pops out of a body bag, and in the movie he all but says “I bet you’re wondering how I got here” as he floats in a pool). 

Previous productions have had very lavish sets, using Norma’s mansion as an excuse to go in a very maximalist direction. Jamie Lloyd has done the opposite, making this a very minimalistic version. There is absolutely nothing onstage except fog and lights. All characters wear plain black and white clothes. The star of the show is a 23-foot-tall LCD screen that lowers from the ceiling and shows the audience a live feed from cameras onstage. Suddenly, the actors’ faces are blown up for us to see with incredible detail. Everything on the screen is still filmed in black and white, keeping with the style of the movie and the aesthetic presented on stage. Credit for the Silver Screen, and the accompanying video design and cinematography goes to Nathan Amzi and Joe Ransom, who I applaud for bringing something so complex and bold to the stage.

The cameras are centered inside large apparatuses the actors and camera crew use to hold them steady. Think large square steering wheels, with the camera being situated where the horn would be. Joe Gillis, played by Tom Francis, actually does hold it like a steering wheel when he starts his car chase with the cops. After twenty minutes of jazzy music and fun choreography, the screen is lowered for the first time. Actors moving behind Francis give the impression of movement, as wind is blown into his face. Suddenly, a title card drops: “Sunset Boulevard, directed by Jamie Lloyd”, followed by a full opening credits sequence. It is a production concerned with movies, quite literally trying to put a movie onstage in a way I’ve never seen before.

Gillis then slinks into Norma’s mansion, and she makes her slow entrance as the orchestra plays her gorgeous, soaring theme. Norma Desmond is normally played by Nicole Scherzinger, most known for her work with the band The Pussycat Dolls. I have seen people herald her performance as a once-in-a-lifetime role, something that is simply unmissable. Nonetheless, I missed her as we went the week she was scheduled to be out. Mandy Gonzales acts as her standby, and they were smart to market her week as a “big event”, a reason for people to come back to see the show. I have a hard time imagining how Nicole would have been much better than Mandy, the minimalism of this show gives them very little to work with. Despite that, Mandy has managed to construct a grand character. I fear this is where much of my confusion with the show began. 

Norma has always seemed old and senile, but Mandy plays her with something of a youthful energy. She stares into the camera and makes dramatic faces, akin to what people would do in a TikTok sketch. I think she is trying to be one of the “fellow kids”, acting like she is still a 20 something star, even though that is no longer the case. She is acting like she’s still in a silent movie and looks insane doing so while every other character gives carefully crafted film performances when in front of the camera. I believe it is true that good art often needs to be digested, something you discuss on the way home from the theatre. However, I also don’t want to pay money to be confused in a theatre. This production walks a fine line between art and confusion, and I fear at times it leans a little too far into confusion. 

After Mandy sings “With One Look”, I suddenly felt trapped in a worse version of “Think of Me” from The Phantom of the Opera for forty-five odd minutes. Leitmotifs continue to be replayed so often it feels repetitive rather than artistic. Characters walk around the stage slowly and talk in a strange, dream-like manner. How many times can a woman possibly sing about giving the world “new ways to dream”? I was downright sleepy in the first act, I wished we could go back to the upbeat jazzy sounds of Hollywood the show started with. The end of act 1 picks up a little, but I had not been convinced what I was watching was actually “good” yet.

Act 2 contains all the real drama, even if the story feels truncated. It begins with an incredible sequence where Tom Francis sings the title song while he walks down seven flights of stairs and out onto the streets of New York, before he returns to the stage to finish the song. We only see him on the screen as the camera operator Shayna McPhearson follows him, often having to walk backwards. It is full of fourth-wall breaks and references to the movie itself and actors’ lives. 

David Thaxton admires a picture of Mandy Gonzales in his dressing room, we see Norma point to the gun she’ll use later, and Francis sings the words “Sunset Boulevard” while standing under the marquee of Sunset Boulevard. The plot picks up pace significantly, as Gillis navigates a burgeoning relationship with fellow writer Betty Schafer, and begins to understand how dangerous it is to be in Norma’s grasp. His demise is perhaps one of the most visceral depictions of violence I’ve seen (or rather, heard) onstage. He is shot, and the stage goes dark as we hear his cries of pain and agony as Norma begins to tear into him. 

When the lights come back on, Norma has blood running down her mouth and soaking her black slip. She is alone onstage, and it is dead silent as an unseen camera zooms in on her face as she utters her famous line: “I’m ready for my closeup, Mr. Demille”. After the curtain call, the screen begins to play a closing credits sequence, and I was struck with the fascinating feeling that I was walking out of a movie theatre. 

Quite frankly, if I had not watched the original movie before I saw this show, I don’t think I would have been able to follow anything that was happening. The minimalist set is interesting but robs us of context. Norma’s mansion is of the same magnitude as Schwab's Drug Store and Paramount Studios, all of which are presented as just an empty stage. A lot of the plot feels gutted, there isn’t a creeping sense of dread as Norma’s fingers tighten further around Gillis’ autonomy. There is a love side plot between Joe Gillis and Betty Schafer that is given adequate space to breathe in the movie, but is left compressed in this stage adaptation. When Norma begins to break from reality, the ensemble comes out dressed in her black slip and starts convulsing on the ground as the screen flashes red. I dare say this production is incomprehensible without knowing the movie first. The spectacle is grand, but the plot has suffered as a result.

Tom Francis’ performance as Joe Gillis is fine, and I wish Grace Hodgett Young had enough real time onstage as Betty Schafer for me to say much about her performance. Jamie Lloyd seems to have directed her and many others to walk slowly across the stage and speak like they’re in a dream, which is a shame. Young was recently seen in the West End transfer of Hadestown, where she played Eurydice. She’s very engaging on the cast album they recently released, and I wish I got to see her in a better role. 

David Thaxton plays Max Von Mayerling and I feel as though he may have had the best performance in the show. His voice is deep and booming, he is always shown on the screen so his intimidating face looms over Gillis. When he walks and speaks slowly, it feels calculated rather than strange. However, I’m excited to see what he does next!

Sunset Boulevard is currently selling tickets up to July 6th, but I doubt it is going to close anytime soon. With the production easily grossing a million dollars a week, operating costs are being covered fully right now. The show will almost certainly not tour. The set is simple, but the logistics needed to do the walk at the top of act 2 in different cities is downright impossible. They could tour without it, but I fear the show would be much, much worse off without a crucial selling point. 

The show is facing stiff competition to win Best Revival at the 2025 Tony Awards. They will have to battle the already successful revival of Gypsy starring Audra McDonald (across the street at the Majestic Theatre), a revival of The Last Five Years starring Nick Jonas, The Lincoln Center’s greatly anticipated revival of Floyd Collins, and Pirates! The Penzance Musical, a reimagining and renaming of the original. Nicole likely puts on a nomination worthy performance, but she’ll be fighting Audra McDonald and Idina Menzel and we still have ten musicals coming out before the Tony eligibility period ends in April. We will see in June whether the Tony voters think Sunset Boulevard is high art or a confusing reinterpretation of a classic, but the production already seems to know the answer.

New Campus Office Opens Doors for Immigrant Students and Families, Offering Resources

Katherine Fragoso, Guest Writer 

Note: This article was written for Writing For Media, with Dr. Emily Stones and in collaboration with Delia Greth, Academic Success Coach at RU, and Karlett Eguiliz, Financial Aid Counselor at RU. 

Student activists at Regis University have launched a new initiative aimed at supporting immigrant students and their families.The Student & Family Immigrant Resource Center, located in Main Hall 343, officially opened Tuesday, February 4.

The Center, a project created by the student, faculty and staff-run Undocumented Student Resource Alliance + (USRA+), provides essential resources and a welcoming space for immigrant individuals, including those from mixed-status families. USRA, originally a small group that met weekly in various locations around campus or via Zoom, has officially opened up this office space. Their help to open up a resource center marks a significant milestone for the organization.

It is designed to help students navigate the challenges of their immigration status while fostering a sense of community and belonging. The center offers a variety of services and resources to support students, including academic assistance, mental health services, legal referrals, and assistance with finding and applying for scholarships.

“We want to make sure undocumented, DACA, refugee, immigrant, and ESL students have a voice here at Regis,” said Karlett Eguiluz, a USRA member. “The center is a place where these students can find support, guidance, and resources, and where faculty and staff can learn how to better serve them.”

Eguiluz emphasized that, while the center is small, its impact is powerful. The team behind the project is made up of dedicated students, faculty and staff who are committed to helping immigrants and displaced students and families during difficult times.

“Each person at the center comes from different areas of campus,” Eguiluz explained. “We bring our diverse skills and knowledge to make sure students have the help they need. And if we don’t have the answers, we will look in our networks to find resources for them.”

The center’s soft launch on February 4 featured a community gathering designed to provide comfort and support for students who faced difficulties due to their status. The event showed an empathetic campus environment and support, while being sociable and welcoming. They advised no one should have to go through these issues alone. The event was informative but also exciting. They provided snacks and desserts at no cost plus plenty of creative activities. 

As the national climate surrounding immigration policy remains tense, the Student & Family Immigrant Resource Center has become even more crucial for the Regis community. With many individuals in the community facing uncertain futures regarding their status, the Center is dedicated to providing a safe space where students and their families can find the support they need.

The Center's launch is part of a larger movement at Regis University to offer solidarity and resources for marginalized populations. As the program continues to grow, members of USRA+ are hopeful that it will make a lasting difference for students and their families.

USRA+ wants to make sure that everyone, regardless of their immigration status, knows they have a place here at Regis.  For more information or to get involved, students and families can visit the center in Main Hall 343 or contact the USRA+ members directly. USRA+ also has an email which is regularly monitored. monarch@regis.edu

Using Your Writing Skills to Start a Freelance Journey

Amber Ramsey, Guest Writer

Note: The following story was written by Guest Writer, Amber Ramsey, of Learn It For Life. 

Embarking on a freelance writing career as a college student or recent graduate offers a unique blend of challenges and opportunities. The freedom to choose projects and the potential for financial independence make it an attractive path. However, success requires more than just a passion for writing; it demands strategic planning and the right tools. By focusing on niche markets, leveraging technology, and understanding financial management, you can build a sustainable career. This guide aims to equip you with the insights needed to thrive in the competitive world of freelance writing.

Unlock Niche Markets in Freelance Writing

In the bustling world of freelance writing, carving out a niche can be your ticket to standing out from the crowd. By focusing on specialized markets, you can position yourself as an expert in a particular field, which not only enhances your credibility but also attracts clients seeking specific expertise. For instance, freelancers who specialize in niche areas often command higher rates, with some earning up to 30% more than their generalist counterparts.  

Boosting Your Freelance Writing with Technology

In freelance writing, technology is pivotal in enhancing both productivity and quality. Utilizing tools like grammar checkers ensures your writing is polished and error-free, which is crucial for maintaining a professional standard. Additionally, project management apps help you organize tasks and deadlines, allowing you to juggle multiple assignments efficiently. These technological aids streamline your workflow and free up time for creativity and research, essential components of compelling writing.  

Discover Opportunities in Ghostwriting

As a college student or recent graduate, venturing into ghostwriting can be a lucrative freelance opportunity, especially for those who excel in writing but lack a platform. Ghostwriting involves crafting content for authors, executives, and influencers who may not have the time or expertise to write themselves, allowing you to leverage your skills while gaining valuable experience. This field is particularly appealing because it offers flexibility and the chance to work with diverse clients, from business leaders to social media personalities.  

Streamline Your Payment Process with Efficient Invoicing

Establishing a robust invoicing system is crucial to ensure timely payments for your freelance writing work. Utilizing an online invoice maker can significantly simplify this process by offering pre-designed templates that you can customize with your text, images, and logo. This enhances the professionalism of your invoices and saves you time. Additionally, selecting a tool that allows you to download invoices in your preferred format ensures flexibility and convenience.  

Master Financial Management as a Student Freelancer

Navigating the financial landscape as a student freelancer requires strategic planning, especially when dealing with fluctuating income. It’s crucial to establish a budget that accommodates the unpredictability of freelance earnings, ensuring you allocate funds for essential expenses and savings. Understanding your tax obligations is equally important, as freelancers must often set aside a portion of their income for taxes, which can be around 15.3% for self-employment tax in the U.S. Utilizing tools like spreadsheets or budgeting apps can help track income and expenses, providing a clearer picture of your financial health.  

Navigate Freelance Writing Rates

To thrive as a freelance writer, it’s crucial to grasp the going rates for various writing services by examining industry benchmarks and what your competitors charge. Understanding these rates can help you set competitive prices that attract clients while ensuring fair compensation for your work. For instance, blog posts might range from $50 to $500 depending on length and expertise, while technical writing could command higher fees due to its specialized nature.  

Get Involved in SEO Writing 

Diving into the world of freelance writing, you can find numerous examples of individuals who have successfully harnessed the power of SEO to elevate their careers. Take, for instance, a writer who started as a college student and quickly became a sought-after writer by mastering SEO techniques, leading to a 200% increase in their client base within a year. Similarly, another writer leveraged their understanding of keyword optimization to secure long-term contracts with major companies, showcasing the potential of SEO skills in attracting high-profile clients.  

Freelance writing is not just a career choice; it’s a journey of continuous learning and adaptation. Exploring different niches and embracing technological advancements will allow you to grow professionally and personally. The path may be challenging, but you can create a fulfilling and prosperous career with dedication and strategic planning. Whether you are drawn to ghostwriting, SEO, or any other specialty, the freelance world is rich with possibilities to explore.

Click here to read more about Learn It For Life

Click here to share your work with The Highlander

A Review of the Touring Production of Kimberly Akimbo

Eamon Lujan, Guest Writer 

The national tour of the Broadway musical, Kimberly Akimbo began its tour at the Buell Theatre on September 22nd, and will be playing in theaters across America for the next year. The show kicked off the Denver Center for the Performing Arts 2024-2025 Broadway Season, bringing the best of Broadway to the Mile High City. Kimberly Akimbo won the 2023 Tony Award for the Best New Musical, a prestigious title that helped it stay popular and relevant, until it closed in April this year. Prior to the performance I saw, I had not listened to any of the cast albums or read any specific plot details. I only knew it was about a teenager with progeria. The performance I attended had the full principal cast.

Kimberly Akimbo is adapted from a 2001 play of the same name, depicting the teenage struggles of Kimberly Levaco, a 16-year-old from New Jersey. Kimberly has progeria, a rare genetic disorder that causes people to age at a rapid pace. The musical role of Kimberly was originated by 64-year-old Victoria Clark on Broadway, and played by 62-year-old Carolee Carmello on the tour. The magic of this show rests on that performance, the suspension of disbelief that a woman in her 60’s is actually a teenager. Carolee Carmello is a star in this role, making the audience truly believe that she is just a teenager, trying to be happy while contending with her disease and mortality. 

All roles in this show are cast so the actors appear as authentic to the age of their characters as possible. This helps Kimberly stand out amongst her young peers and middle-aged family. She is stuck dealing with her alcoholic father (played by Jim Hogan) and her narcissistic, pregnant mother (played by Dana Steingold). At school, she meets Seth (played by Miguel Gil), a charming, awkward boy obsessed with anagrams. In the meantime, her criminal Aunt Debra (played by Emily Koch) tries to drag Kimberly into a check-washing scheme.

First, I’ll start with highlighting the best of the show.. Kimberly Akimbo is a show that is relentlessly positive, without being the trite disability inspiration story we’ve seen many times before. It feels like it belongs in the 2017 season on Broadway, at home with shows like Dear Evan Hansen and Come From Away. There’s drama and serious moments but it also has ample use of humor and comedy to provide stretches of levity. It’s a deeply human show, covering the flaws and follies of a parent, teenage friendship and love, and our fickle mortality. 

Kimberly’s “I Want” song is a letter to the Make-A-Wish foundation, talking about everything she’ll never get to do because she won’t live long enough to experience those things. Later, she’s among her peers as they sing about beginning their “real life”, in going to college and starting families. She sits there silently, dejected, knowing she won’t live long enough to have a life after high school. 

As I said earlier, it is worth seeing this show on tour solely for Carolee Carmello’s performance as Kimberly. To be 50 years removed from being a teenager (much less one in 1999) and still being able to portray that authentically is nothing short of spectacular. When the rights to the show become available, local theaters are going to have a hard time finding anyone who can match such a performance.

I was also delighted with Miguel Gil’s portrayal of Seth, a sincere performance for an equally sincere character. Miguel was the original understudy for Seth during the Broadway run, and I’m so glad he gets to star in the role on tour. Seth is an awkward, wonderful “good kid” who plays the tuba. In his spare time, he creates anagrams, rearranging the letters of a word or phrase to say something new (Federal government can be rearranged to “large fervent demon”). His general weirdness and authenticity gives Kimberly a safe space, away from her deeply dysfunctional family. 

Miguel and Carolee have wonderful stage chemistry. Carolee’s performance doesn’t work if Miguel also can’t convince the audience of their budding friendship and feelings, and he’s able to do that despite the 40 years of age between him and Carolee.

On the other end, here are the not so great things about the show. While I enjoyed my time in the theater, I found upon walking out that I couldn’t really remember any of the songs. Many were fun to watch, fun in the context of the scene they were in, but they weren’t catchy. I hold the opinion that truly great musicals must have songs that are memorable, worthy in their own right. I can’t see myself going back and consistently listening to the Kimberly Akimbo cast album in my spare time. I fear almost all the songs sounded the same, only 3 stand out in my mind with any clarity after the fact. Those three were “Better”, “Happy for Her”, and “How to Wash a Check”. 

I also wouldn’t say this was a spectacularly staged production, or that it even felt “definitive”. It stayed committed to a realistic staging of the songs and material, but it didn’t make any part of it “stand out”. Come From Away is a show that’s grounded in equally realistic material, but it has a creative use of chairs and costumes within its minimal set to switch rapidly between people and places, giving it a feeling of momentum and purpose. And while it does escape being a disability inspiration story, it can’t escape being a dime-a-dozen feel good story. The story as I saw it would’ve worked better as a movie, as only a few parts of the story were elevated by the inclusion of music.

Overall, I give the show a 7/10. There were a lot of enjoyable moments and performances, but there’s a lot of missed potential. I also do not feel as though this show deserves the title of Best New Musical. It was up against Shucked, a corny, sincere, feel-good musical that I consider to be better than Kimberly Akimbo in all respects. Shucked will not be at the DCPA this season, but it has begun its American tour. If you have the chance to see Shucked, see it instead of Kimberly Akimbo.