Curtain rises and we are greeted with an advisory that is all to familiar for movie and theatre goers, “Please silence your phones…”. But this message isn’t for the audience in attendance, this is our introduction to Daniel Hillard, brilliantly portrayed by Rob McClure. A struggling actor who finds himself embroiled in a messy divorce and fighting for custody of his children. Desperate to spend more time with his kids, Daniel concocts a wild scheme to disguise himself as a Scottish nanny named Mrs. Doubtfire, in order to become their caregiver. What comes next is a hilarious series of mishaps and misunderstandings as Daniel navigates the challenges of maintaining his dual identity while trying to win back his family’s affection.
The stage comes alive with the vibrant energy of “Mrs. Doubtfire,” a delightful Scottish woman who is the answer to Mrs. Hillard’s prayer. She’s quirky, witty, and makes the children do their homework. However, there’s something eerily familiar about this nanny. This Broadway adaptation captures the essence of the beloved film while adding its own unique flair and modern nuggets. Directed by Jerry Zaks and featuring a stellar cast, this production is a heartwarming journey filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable moments.
McClure shines in the role of Daniel, effortlessly displaying the charm, wit, and vulnerability of the character. His comedic timing is impeccable, resulting in uproarious laughter from the audience with each voice impersonation and slapstick moment. Beneath the humor lies a poignant portrayal of a father’s unwavering love for his children, making Daniel a character audiences can’t help but root for.
Opposite McClure is Maggie Lakis, who delivers a stellar performance as Miranda Hillard, Daniel’s ex-wife. Her portrayal is nuanced and multifaceted, capturing Miranda’s vulnerability and eventual growth throughout the production. The chemistry between McClure and Lakis is palpable, infusing their scenes together with emotional depth and authenticity everytime we see the two of them together.
From the moment McClure steps onto the stage in full costume and makeup, he commands attention with his display of hijinks that can only come from Mrs. Doubtfire herself. Her impeccable Scottish accent, endearing quirks, and larger-than-life personality will have you falling in love with her instantly. Whether he is serving up sage advice to the children, engaging in witty banter with the other characters as Mrs. Doubtfire, or busting out into spontaneous dance numbers, McClure embodies the iconic role with gusto and charm.
The supporting cast also deserves praise for their contributions to the production, with each actor bringing their own unique talents and energy to the stage. From the precocious antics of the Hillard children to the AWESOME AND UBER TALENTED ensemble of supporting characters, every member of the cast plays an integral role in bringing the world of “Mrs. Doubtfire” to life.
One of the production’s greatest strengths lies in its seamless integration of music and choreography, which adds an extra layer of depth and emotion to the storytelling. Music Director, Mark Binns, does a great job at blending upbeat numbers while keeping the story of the characters from going astray. With unforgettable musical numbers like “Make Me a Woman”, “Welcome to La Rosa”, and “I’m Rockin’ now” comes choreography that can only be described as top tier and unpredictable, led by Lorin Latarro, the infusion of Latin steps, hip hop moves, and a slight bit of Fosse influence the musical numbers gives the audience energy and flair.
Beyond its entertainment value, “Mrs. Doubtfire” also serves as a poignant exploration of themes such as family, forgiveness, and the importance of being true to oneself. Through Daniel’s journey of self-discovery and redemption, the audience is reminded of the power of love to overcome even the greatest of obstacles, and the importance of cherishing the moments we share with those we hold dear.
“Mrs. Doubtfire” tells the story of love through not so conventional circumstances. This production gives real life situations a vast palate of emotion and a heartfelt message resonating long after the final curtain call. Whether you’re a fan of the original film or experiencing the story for the first time, this Broadway adaptation is sure to captivate audiences of all ages and leave you rockin’ in your seats. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of “Mrs. Doubtfire” live on stage!
