Mrs Doubtfire the Musical is now running at Newcastle Theatre Royal until October 11, with Gabriel Vick impressing in the title role of the Scottish nanny. The production, which is in the city for a two-and-a-half week run, brings the much-loved 1993 comedy film to the stage with plenty of laughs and some surprising additions.
A familiar story with fresh twists
The musical follows the same basic plot as the film, in which Daniel, a supercharged dad with quick-fire wit and cracking impersonations, disguises himself as a super-strict nanny after a split from wife Miranda, in order to have a daily role in his children's lives. Some changes have been made to the much-loved film it is based upon, but it is pretty much all there, with some additions that verge at times on the bizarre.
There are updates including references to laptops, mobiles and online plans for the children's TV show which finally gives Daniel's talents their place in the spotlight. But before that, audiences see Mrs Doubtfire in situations they could never have expected. The film's pool scene, for instance, is swapped for a fashion event with the sturdy nanny being enlisted to do some modelling, which appears to turn into more of an exercise session when, out of her usual knitwear, the elderly nanny cavorts around the floor.
Standout performances and songs
The cast, from those playing the couple's children - the eldest of whom, Lydia, is perfectly played by Aaliya Mai - to the ensemble dancers, carry off the chaotic comedy with style. Kara Lily Hayworth plays a much more sympathetic Miranda than in the film, and sings the moving song Let Go beautifully. Daniel's I Want To Be There plea during the custody hearing is another poignant moment, with both songs adding real depth to the story.
There is also plenty of humour, including a scene where Daniel's brother Frank and partner Andre debate how to create Mrs Doubtfire's look, with a succession of possible ideas for the mix in the form of characters including Eleanor Roosevelt, Margaret Thatcher and even 'a little bit of Oscar Wilde'. Ryan Pidgen's Frank, who shouts when he's telling a lie, is a particular highlight.
Surreal moments and a strong finale
Mrs Doubtfire also dances a lot, at one point surrounded by about nine other identikit Mrs Doubtfires in a surreal flight of fancy. There is even a fourth-wall breaking moment that sees her address a person in the front row, which adds an almost pantomime touch. The film's standout restaurant scene is altered here, with a fiery performance from Rhianna Alleyne as a flamenco dancer furiously singing He Lied To Me a great addition. The big reveal when it comes is done differently, although it is just as effective.
Mrs Doubtfire will always be Robin Williams' role, but Vick does a brilliant job in the part. The show, which sees him first appear in character and dressed in that familiar tartan skirt and cardigan, is pure fun, just what's needed on a dark autumn night.
