Review: MRS DOUBTFIRE THE MUSICAL, Shaftesbury Theatre

Photo credit: Manuel Harlan

Mrs Doubtfire the Musical originally previewed on Broadway in 2020. Never hitting the heights many expected for this show across the pond (mainly due to the Covid pandemic), it has now opened at London’s Shaftesbury Theatre. Initially making its premiere in the UK last year at Manchester’s Opera House, the musical is based on the classic film released in 1993 starring the late Robin Williams as the title character.

Daniel Hillard is a devoted out of work father to his three children. Following his wife’s demand for a divorce he seeks an unorthodox way in which to be more prevalent in their lives. After winning custody of their children Miranda Hillard successfully employs Eughegenia Doubtfire as the children’s nanny. Unbeknownst to her this is an alter ego made by her ex husband in a desperate attempt to stay in their lives. Mrs Doubtfire takes on a life of her own and teaches Daniel more than he bargained for in how to be a father.

The iconic role of Mrs Doubtfire is possibly one of the hardest to replicate due to the outstanding nature in which Robin Williams portrayed her, however Gabriel Vick delivers a stand out performance as the loveable yet tough nanny. Whilst clearly inspired by Williams (and it would be hard not to be), he doesn’t copy or imitate the original but manages to put his own unique take on the character. Vick is extremely convincing as Doubtfire, so much so that you almost forget he was on stage mere seconds ago as Daniel. Aside from his wonderful depiction of Doubtfire, Vick’s talent as a voice actor and his ability to make the script seem improvised is a testament to his experience in theatre. The make-up and prosthetics team (portrayed as Daniel’s brother and partner in the show) have done an incredible job in convincing the audience that Daniel is Scottish nanny, Mrs Doubtfire, and in such a short space of time during quick changes is no mean feat.

Resprising her role from the Manchester run is Carla Dixon-Hernadez who plays Lydia Hillard, the eldest of the three children. In this particular performance, we are introduced to Frankie Treadaway and Angelica Pearl-Scott who play Christopher and Natalie Hillard, the younger siblings of Lydia. The trio have an abundance of chemistry together and vocally balance well. It is commendable that these young actors have such a vital role in this piece of theatre and both display their talents skilfully.

A special mention must go to the ensemble members of this fanstatic cast as they must be amongst the busiest and hardest working in the West End delivering numerous costume changes and complex chereography including an iconic riverdance routine. Casting director Stuart Burt could not have assembled a more perfect cast.

The show takes all the best bits from the much loved film and transfers them to the stage seamlessly. Legendary scenes are replicated and die hard fans of the film will be familiar with some of the dialogue taken directly from the cult film. The musical also manages to modernise the narrative of Mrs Doubtfire and bring her to the present day as she uses modern technology with disastrous but hilarious consequences.

If you’re wondering if catchy musical numbers and outstanding choreography would compliment an already cult classic then it absolutely does. The score, written by Wayne and Karey Kirkpatrick, has beautiful and poignant numbers such as ‘What The Hell’ and ‘Let Go’ pulling on the heart strings of the audience, relatable to many who may have been through family difficulties. ‘Easy Peasy’ and ‘Make Me A Women’ remind us that whilst the show deals with subjects of a serious matter, this is a family comedy musical at the heart of it and has the audience laughing out loud continually.

Mrs Doubtfire really does have it all. The creative team have captured the essence of the fan favourite film whilst delivering London’s newest smash hit musical. This truly deserves each of its standing ovations which will no doubt come each evening.

No help needed here dears!

***** Five stars

Reviewed by: Jordan Potts

Mrs Doubtfire the Musical is currently booking at London’s Shaftesbury Theatre until 13 January 2024, with tickets available here.