The most authentic pretense baby-sitter returns to her motherland to share the fun, laughter and a few punishments with her West End poppets. Guillermo Nazara gives us his thoughts on the musical adaptation of one the most popular family film classics ever made, to let us know if the show is actually a nanny goat.
“I’ll kill that misogyny bastard who invented heels”. I’m afraid my favourite quote from the movie that turned my child self into a Robin Williams fanboy was scrapped last night, when I ventured back into the Shaftesbury Theatre as the manliest nanny of them all (apart from Emma Thompson) welcomed us to her new home – Juliet is on an exchange trip across the pond. It’s kind of a downer, I’m not gonna lie, but it may probably the only one. Because in all honesty, after half a year studded with new shows (and a bit of anxiety to write the reviews on time), I can sincerely say this is by far the best family musical of the season.
“Helloooooooooooooooooo (etc.), London!”, cry the all-present ads that, for months now, have covered the city, starred in every single of my YouTube interruptions and harassed my dreams – actually, none of the latter, but I like the theatre for a reason… Anyway, hello, indeed! Hello to the writing, hello to the production and hello to its cast! It all works delightfully well – playing it faithful to the movie, but at the same time taking the opportunity not only for new (and incredibly fun) snippets, but also add depth to the story in a way the original product did (or could) not.
Featuring songs by Wayne and Karey Kirkpatrick, all of the musical numbers, though not truly hummable, serve the narrative brilliantly – always kicking in at the right time and mixing the story’s amusement with some more touching, reflective moments. Yes, it’s a silly comedy, but it’s also a serious contemplation on the harshness of being a parent and, ultimately, on questioning the validity of our actions when we’re only trying to do the right thing.
The fact that the film has been adapted today has also given the writers the opportunity to update the material – technologically (the kids use tablets and iPhones now and Mrs. Doubtfire can tamper with your Internet connection, so watch out!) and also regarding social matters. Daniel’s brother (originally played by comedy legend and LGBT treasure Harvey Fierstein) is no longer an implied gay – but out and proud with his husband and in the process of adoption.
With a more than effective set design by David Korins, the production displays highly memorable visuals, particularly thanks to its numerous remarkably energetic numbers. From clumsy cooking lessons (you know which part of the movie I’m talking about) to failed womanizing tryouts, the show takes many iconic sequences from its predecessor to a whole new level – sometimes changing it, but usually improving it. We may not get a matchmaker, matchmaker tune, but we get an Oscar Wilde break dance. So, duh!
As for the cast, the whole troupe give impeccable renditions – their singing and choreography (credit to Lorin Latarro) being the highest points. However, a most distinct mention is to be made to Gabriel Vick in the lead character. He acts, he sings, he dances, he makes voices (A LOT of voices) and he performs with such passion and magnetism, it could be only him during the entire evening and the production would still be a success. The torch has been passed to a new rising star on this occasion – and if his understudies can match his staggeringly high standards, there’s no doubt that some of the best talent in this country has been restrained to this venue only.
With so much to offer in one single evening, Mrs. Doubtfire has surfed the wave on its journey across the pond. Good-hearted comedy, more than enjoyable numbers and a simple but sincere message of love and kindness make of this show a definite must-see of this season. She may be fake, but her success is undoubtedly real.
Oh, just one little thing: avoid the maracas and tango music if you’re setting a scene in a Spanish restaurant – even if it is for tourists!
All pictures credit to Manuel Harlan.
Mrs. Doubtfire, The Musical plays at London’s Shaftesbury Theatre from Tuesday to Sunday. Tickets are available on the following link.