Meet Darron Hayes! Hayes plays Martin Doaty in “Kimberly Akimbo,” a new musical about growing up and growing old (in no particular order), coming to Overture Center for the Arts from Tuesday, Feb. 10 through Sunday, Feb. 15.
“Kimberly Akimbo” is the winner of 5 Tony Awards® including Best Musical. It features Tony Award®-winning book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire (Shrek), a Tony Award®-winning score by Jeanine Tesori (Fun Home), choreography by Danny Mefford (Dear Evan Hansen) and direction by Tony Award®-nominated director Jessica Stone (Water for Elephants).
Kimberly is about to turn 16 and recently moved with her family to a new town in suburban New Jersey. In this “howlingly funny heartbreaker of a show” (The New Yorker), Kim is forced to navigate family dysfunction, a rare genetic condition, her first crush… and possible felony charges. Ever the optimist, she is determined to find happiness against all odds and embark on a great adventure.
Below Hayes shares details about his career, the show, his character and life on the road:
Can you tell us about your acting journey and how you got to where you are today?
I grew up singing in church, and from there, I did local shows in my hometown of Winston-Salem, North Carolina. I went on to work at the National Black Theatre Festival and graduated from the High School Acting Program at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. After that, I received my BFA from Penn State. I went on and worked regionally.
I’ve done a few Off-Broadway shows, including “I Can Get It for You Wholesale.” I reprised my role of Pharus Jonathan Young in the Australian premiere of “Choir Boy,” and shortly after, I made my Broadway debut with “Kimberly Akimbo.” I’ve been on the road with the show since September 2024.
What would you like people to know about “Kimberly Akimbo”?
“Kimberly Akimbo” is a coming-of-age story about a 16-year-old girl who has this rare genetic disorder where she ages four times as fast as she should. I’d like people to know that our show is heartfelt, it’s devastatingly hilarious, and it’s a story you don’t even know you need.
What is your character like and how does Martin fit into the “Kimberly Akimbo” story?
Martin Doaty is one of Kimberly’s quirky high school friends. He is a star to be. He’s a teenager in show choir with his best buds, but he knows that his dream life is awaiting him outside of Bergen County, New Jersey. He’s known for his love of show tunes and performing, bringing both humor and heart to the musical.
What’s it like to tour the country with a Broadway show? What do you like best? What are the challenges?
Touring the country has been the biggest blessing. It’s such an incredible thing to travel for work and see the entire country, but it, of course, has its ups and downs like anything else. For me, it’s hard going from various climates and hotel rooms, and trying to take care of my body and voice while constantly traveling. But I do my very best to take care of myself through hydration, working out and eating my kale! My favorite thing on the road is trying various workout classes throughout the country, where I meet new buddies and friends along the way!
Are there things you seek to find or do in each new city?
Definitely local coffee shops and hot yoga studios.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to go on long walks, go to hot yoga and do skincare.
Have you ever been to Madison before?
I’ve never been to Madison, Wis., but I’m excited to see what it has in store!
What advice do you have for others who are pursuing a career in the performing arts?
Stay focused on your goals and everything you want out of your life. Everything else will fall into place.
Why should people come to see you in “Kimberly Akimbo”?
Because it’s a show you’ll remember for the rest of your life—and you’ll take so much from the play that you didn’t even know was possible.
