DPAC's "Mrs Doubtfire" is Heavy on Heart and Humor

(L to R) Giselle Gutierrez (Lydia Hillard), Cody Braverman (Christopher Hillard), Emerson Mae Chan (Natalie Hillard), Maggie Lakis (Miranda Hillard), and Rob McLure (Euphegenia Doubtfire). Photo by Joan Marcus.

For many of us, it’s hard to believe that the 1993 film, Mrs. Doubtfire, in which a recently-divorced father, Daniel Hillard, poses as a much-older female nanny in an effort to be close to his kids, is over thirty years old. But, despite its age, the heart and humor that made the film so popular are still alive and thriving. For proof, one only needs to look to the musical version, onstage now at the Durham Performing Arts Center.

Featuring a book (based on the original film) by Karey Kirkpatrick and John O’Farrell and brand new music and lyrics by Wayne Kirkpatrick and Karey Kirkpatrick, as well as direction by four-time Tony Award winner Jerry Zaks, this musical version stays (mostly) true to the original story. 

Because it’s set in the modern day, there are references to cell phones and contemporary pop culture. Plus, the writers have added in a smart, sensitive storyline in which Daniel’s brother, Frank (a hilarious Aaron Kaburick) and his husband, Andre (Nik Alexander) are working to build their family. Daniel’s wife, Miranda (Maggie Lakis) also has more dimension. Here, she’s building an inclusive fashion brand and doing her best to empower women.

Of course, Daniel (Rob McLure) doesn’t make that (or anything else) easier for her, either as himself or as the unforgettable Mrs. Doubtfire, his nanny persona. And, while the character may make some toxic choices, McLure makes all the right moves. His frenzied energy and innate knack for over-the-top-comedy pay the kindest homage to Robin Williams’ original performance. He also shares an undeniable onstage chemistry, one that’s rife with a realistic mix of tension and misplaced love, with Lakis, his real-life wife.

The show’s younger performers, including a talented, heart-tugging Cody Braverman as middle child, Christopher Hillard, also bring an incredible level of talent to the stage. Emerson Mae Chan as little Natalie Hillard is positively adorable and uses her tiny, high-pitched voice for maximum cuteness, while Giselle Gutierrez as oldest sister Lydia displays an incredible vocal range and just the right amount of stoicism. 

Speaking of musical talent, the musical’s songs are a welcome addition and add more emotional depth to this family dramedy. Daniel’s immense love for his children comes through loud and clear in “I Want to Be There,” and “What the Hell,” a number that’s as funny as it is sad, gives real weight and insight into the kids’ frustrations. Plus, “Easy Peasy,” which ultimately turns into a tap-dancing number, showcases Lorin Latarro’s immense talent as a choreographer.

Packed with plenty of inside jokes for lovers of the film but also able to stand on its own two feet, Mrs. Doubtfire is a treat the entire family can enjoy. It’s the kind of show that reminds us all that families (and people) don’t have to be perfect and that, in the end, love, understanding, and communication are always the answer.

-Justin Morey