Mrs. Doubtfire is a thrilling and innovative reinvention of the classic 1993 movie. This new stage production, which made its debut at the Shaftesbury Theatre in 2023, follows the tale of Daniel Hillard, a devoted dad who transforms himself into a quirky Scottish nanny to spend precious moments with his kids after his divorce from his wife. It's a fresh and exhilarating take on the original film that's sure to delight audiences!
With new aspects added to the tale, the visually spectacular remake, directed by Jerry Zaks and written by Karey Kirkpatrick and John O'Farrell, retains the soul of the original film. With a stage that facilitates smooth scene changes, the set design is especially impressive. The show's general ambiance is enhanced by the use of lighting and projections, giving the audience a dynamic and engaging experience.
The catchy and energetic soundtrack, composed by Wayne and Karey Kirkpatrick, features a number of standout tracks that heighten the production's overall intensity. The show's energetic speed and appealing song are what establish the mood for "Mrs. Doubtfire," the opening number. Despite not being your usual musical, Mrs. Doubtfire does feature a few memorable tunes that enhance the whole experience. Although the songs don't stick in your memory too much, they do their job of moving the plot forward and offering lighthearted humor. The well-choreographed musical pieces raise the show's overall intensity.
Gabriel Vick plays Daniel Hillard and Mrs. Doubtfire in the main roles. Vick's performance is strong and accurately represents Robin Williams' legendary portrayal of the character in the original movie. Vick does a wonderful job of expressing Daniel's sensitivity and tenderness in this endearing and genuine portrayal of the character. He should be commended for his transformation into Mrs. Doubtfire because he switches between the two roles so well in the program.
The production team has made some unique choices in terms of editing and updating the traditional story. They have kept the heart of the story intact but have made some necessary changes to suit contemporary audiences. The team has also done a great job with the set design and wardrobe modifications. The costume changes for Mrs. Doubtfire are impressive, with outfits that allow her to transform into different characters. The costume changes are seamless, and Vick’s ability to switch between characters is impressive.
Vick’s chemistry with Laura Tebbutt, who plays Miranda Hillard, is authentic. Tebbutt did a great job capturing the character's frustration and anger at her husband's divorce. Their scenes together are particularly poignant, evoking a keen sense of regret as they grapple with their feelings for each other amidst their divorce proceedings.
The supporting cast is strong, with each actor bringing their unique energy to the production. One standout performance is that of Carla Dixon-Hernandez, who plays Lydia Hillard, Daniel's daughter, with whom he had a strained relationship. Lydia stands out with her singing voice and showcases her theatrical prowess in a potent monologue. Other cast members contribute distinct energy to the play. Cameron Blakely, who plays Frank, Daniel's brother, has a comical portrayal, adding an extra layer of comedy to the scenes where he interacts with Daniel.
The musical also addresses topics that are pertinent to modern culture, such as acceptance and family. The account of Daniel's struggles as a single father and his attempts to keep a relationship with his kids following his divorce are delicately handled and give the narrative depth.
Mrs. Doubtfire is indeed an innovative and thrilling retelling of the cherished 1993 movie, as it adds new details to the narrative and perfectly captures the spirit of Robin Williams' legendary performance. Excellent production values are there, and the cast gives exceptional performances.
Get ready for a delightfully sweet theatrical experience as the production of Mrs. Doubtfire brings the beloved story to life on stage! While the musical may not be an exceptional spectacle, it's still a joyful and enjoyable journey that follows the original storyline.
