Yesterday, I got the chance to see Mrs. Doubtfire The Musical. Usually, when a musical adaptation of a movie comes in, I always feel skeptical at first, but I always like to give the show a chance. Granted, I love the film and of course, no one can replace the late Robin Williams. Everything I was thinking about this show changed the moment the curtain went up. This show is filled with extraordinary comedic acts, as well as big dance numbers. The one thing you should know is that everything is unexpected, especially if you are seeing it for the first time. The creative team made sure that the funny moments from the film were in the show as well. One example is during a major dance number in Act I, "Easy Peasy", where Mrs. Doubtfire's bra catches on fire. That, I must say is impressive! While we are still talking about that number, let's talk about the choreography of it! Towards the end of it, there is a major tap number that I simply cannot forget! I cannot imagine the hard work the cast put into this number. This number is considered my favorite scene of the entire show!
Moving on, let's talk about the cast! Obviously, the star of the show, Rob McClure, has proven himself as a dedicated actor for the stage! I cannot imagine the challenge of changing in and out of a bodysuit so quickly. Most importantly, a role that Robin Williams created is now in good hands. McClure's performance is one of the best and ver comedic performances I have EVER seen on a Broadway stage! If he does not win a Tony Award for this role, all hell will break loose! Step aside Hugh Jackman, make way for Rob McClure! Moving on, Jen Gambatese, who plays Miranda, gives a wonderful performance of a mother who wants what is best for her children. Her singing voice is so clear and concise! Of course, the children are also big stars in their own way! Analise Scarpaci's rebellious character Lydia is just trying to help keep the family together as she says in the number "What The Hell", "the adults should stop acting like children". Jake Ryan Flynn's performance was also excellent. Even with his voice being deeper than when he started with this show, he still powers through and actually makes the character of Christopher more mature. Next up, Brad Oscar's performance of Frank Hillard. One thing that annoyed me and made me laugh at the same time was his frequent yelling. Granted, being in the front row kind of made that experience louder, but it was still hilarious! J. Harrison Ghee continues his sassiness from playing Lola in Kinky Boots to playing Frank's husband André. Finally, I was not expecting much from Charity Angel Dawson, who plays Wanda, until the near end of Act II when Daniel realizes he screwed up. Although this scene was a dream, it still was unexpected. Charity breaks out into this rock number and just BELTS and I mean BELTS the number. I do not know how she does it, especially doing it 8 times a week, but she is a trooper!
In conclusion, this show is a masterpiece of itself! While it is good to have seen the original film first, I personally feel that going into this show unexpectedly is good too! To be honest, I thought this was better than the movie. Of course, no one can replace Robin Williams, but Rob McClure has preserved Williams' version while also making the character his own! If you have nothing to do when in NYC, please head on over to the Stephen Sondheim Theatre and enjoy 2 1/2 hours of energetic, comedic and of course family fun in this musical!
The idea is to work and to experiment. Some things will be creatively successful, some things will succeed at the box office, and some things will only - which is the biggest only - teach you things that see the future. And they're probably as valuable as any of your successes. -Harold Prince
