Mrs. Doubtfire, Shaftesbury Theatre Review

★ ★ ★ ★

Reviewer -Annie

*Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review

Gilded with a dazzling new frontage, the much-anticipated reopening of the Shaftesbury Theatre after the sad farewell of & Juliet, arrived last night as we ventured over for the press night of “Mrs Doubtfire” the musical. After a highly anticipated West End transfer, the show opened to a keen audience awaiting to see how the much-adored film had been adapted for the stage.

It’s no secret that the show has created a heck of a lot of controversies since opening in Manchester, which only heightened with the West End transfer (especially with what show it was replaced in the Shaftesbury Theatre), however, it was extremely refreshing to see how much research the show had done in its initial creation research. I feel like it is hard to not address this topic, what with it being so prevalent within the musical theatre and LGBTQI+ realms, however equally am conscious to not say all much as there are far more appropriate people to offer opinions than me (straight cis female) so will not be addressing more than the obvious points on this topic.

The book has been wonderfully written by John O’Farrell and Karey Kirkpatrick, encapsulating the much-loved aspects of the film, but whilst having brought the story into the modern day. Filled with humour about modern life in 2023, anyone in the audience can enjoy the show - with the innocence protected for child audiences. The show still holds true to the feel of the film, with costuming and staging resonating with 90’s fashions, but feels very much in place with modern day ideas at the same time. It really felt the perfect mix of nostalgia and a fresh reincarnation of the story.

Mrs. Doubtfire the musical (original London cast). Photo credit Manuel Harlan (8)-min.jpg

Mrs. Doubtfire the musical (original London cast). Photo credit Manuel Harlan (9)-min.jpg

As mentioned before, there are many aspects of the film which haven’t particularly aged brilliantly, and the book has managed to reinvent these issues and create a show which does not take the “easy route” of a man dressing as a woman for cheap laughs, but instead creates a heartwarming story surrounding the importance of familial love. The story follows Daniel as he goes to extremes to be with his children and the turbulent relationship between him and his ex-wife.

Again an easy route would have been to paint the mother (played by Laura Tebbutt) as the villain of the story however, with an honest performance of ‘Let Gol we are able to see the mother’s pain and side of the story. Tebbutt is a huge success in the role and her performance is genuine and natural throughout.

All three children play wonderfully off of one another and keep up with the ensemble in routines - which is certainly no easy task. Carla Dixon-Hernandez is exceptional in the role of Lydia, leading by example for the younger children, and her voice is simply incredible, giving such power and emotion in ‘What The Hell’.

Gabriel Vick is a triumph as Mrs. Doubtfire/Daniel Hillard, a natural-born performer, and outright star. Many fans will hold the film so dear due to Robin Williams’ unforgettable performance, however, there is no chance of disappointment of a lesser portrayal in the show. Vick has encapsulated the best parts of Williams’ portrayal but completely re-energised it for the stage. Not once did it feel like an impersonation - he has made the role entirely his own. Not only is Vick excellent as both Daniel and Mrs. Doubtfire, but he excellently displays his skill of voice acting in the show - which had the audience rolling in laughter and complete awe of his sublime talent.

Music by Wayne Kirkpatrick and Carey Kirkpatrick totally lifts the show, varying from heartwarming solos, to teen anguish-filled angry songs, or from 70’s disco tunes right through to fiery flamenco ballads. It is a joy to listen to and many catchy tunes can be found in the discography. The music definitely lends itself more towards creating big dance numbers, however, there’s still definitely lots of enjoyment to be found within them.

The ensemble is a tremendous group of talent - offering not only solid harmonies but insane dancing. The routines are no laughing matter, filled to the brim with complex steps across all genres. The entire show is a spectacle and the choreography beautifully elevates it to the next level.

It HAS to be addressed - my goodness what a task the costume department was handed. I must admit I was apprehensive to see how they transformed Daniel into Doubtfire, but the artistry is pure magic. Not only is the costuming so detailed and realistic, but it has also been so exceptionally designed that it can be easily removed or put back on in order to keep up with the storyline. It was wonderful that these moments were kept on stage for the audience to understand, as it just made the costume and design even more impressive. Huge congratulations to Catherine Zuber and David Brain Brown for this astounding magic.

I honestly had all expectations exceeded with Mrs. Doubtfire. Although I don't perhaps think it is quite as complex as perhaps some other shows, you can’t ignore the sheer happiness and entertainment it provided the audience. The music is joyous, the dancing is sublime and the cast are riddled with amazing talent. At the end of the day isn’t this what theatre is about? We go to be entertained and leave feeling on cloud nine - and Mrs. Doubtfire can easily put a smile on anyone’s face. Now, go get some tickets poppets!