She’s outrageous, she’s daft and she's on stage in Newcastle.
Billed as a ‘feel-good family musical’, Jerry Zaks’ adaptation of the iconic film delivers entertainment for all ages.
The story, made famous by the 1993 film starring Robin Williams, follows divorced father Daniel Hillard, who disguises himself as Scottish nanny Euphegenia Doubtfire in order to spend more time with his children – without his ex-wife knowing who is really beneath the wig and sensible cardigan.
Gabriel Vick takes on the challenge of playing both Daniel and his alter ego, Mrs Doubtfire. He’s witty and engaging as both, but it’s when the wig, dress and Scottish accent come out that his performance really takes off.
Emerging talent Aaliya Mai, starring as Hillard’s daughter Lydia, proves herself one to watch. She brings a believable youthful naivety to Lydia, alongside a maturity which helps give weight to the show’s underlying message about the importance of familial bonds.
Adapting the plot of such a well-loved film into a musical presents its own challenges, but the songs are used effectively to move the story along and offer insights into the characters’ emotions while remaining cheerful yet sincere.
The set design, while polished and resourceful, is reminiscent of sitcom television and, combined with all the dressing up, gives the production a nostalgic feel not too far removed from the light-hearted staging of a pantomime.
There is plenty of humour aimed at different generations, including references to social media jokes and dance trends from years gone by. Droplets of local humour and Geordie impressions also help draw the Newcastle crowd into the chaos of the story.
There are countless pop culture references throughout – some rather unexpected – which add familiarity as well as the occasional comedic surprise.
What really steals the show, however, is the choreography.
There is a clear thoughtfulness and precision behind the dance numbers, which also cleverly disguise any potential lulls during scene and costume changes. The impressive – and equally comic – performances make sure there’s little chance for attention to drift. Mrs Doubtfire has some serious dance moves.
Mrs Doubtfire the Musical is at Newcastle Theatre Royal until October 11. Tickets are available from the theatre’s website and box office.