Mrs. Doubtfire Review: hellooooo, Leeds! Love, laughter and quick changes in this delightful musical tour
11 November 2026 | 19:30 | Leeds Grand Theatre (UK & Ireland Tour)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | PR - Invite
Mrs. Doubtfire is most well-known as the beloved 1993 movie starring Robin Williams, originally adapted from Anne Fine's novel Madame Doubtfire. Its musical production first debuted in Seattle (2019), soon transferring to the West End's Shaftesbury Theatre in 2023.
Many would be skeptical that its stage re-working couldn't possibly measure up to the film, and to Williams' brilliance in the title role. However, opening for a three-week run at Leeds Grand Theatre, starring West End lead Gabriel Vick as Daniel Hillard/Mrs. Doubtfire, this UK Tour may just do exactly that.
Directed by Jerry Zaks, this is a truly comedic production with an unexpected emotional side. The story follows Daniel Hillard as he fails to navigate married life - but who loves his children deeply - and does everything in his power to be with them. Even if that does mean inventing alter-ego Euphegenia Doubtfire, an elderly Scottish widow and housekeeper!
The company deliver a remarkable performance complete with acting, dancing and stunning vocals. Gabriel Vick portrays the perfect Daniel Hillard/Mrs. Doubtfire: his ability to switch characters multiple times per scene is captivating, and while delivering the songs I Want To Be There and Just Pretend with his daughter Lydia (Aaliya Mai), there isn't a dry eye or heartstring not tugged in the audience.
Kara Lily Hayworth as Miranda Hillard, an unhappy woman who yearns to be heard by her husband, conveys a beautiful breadth of emotion, still in-keeping with the show's magic and humour. The ensemble carry a hugely hilarious presence, taking each scene that bit further and getting the most out of every moment.
It wouldn't be a review of Mrs. Doubtfire without mentioning the impeccable costume and makeup design. Catherine Zuber (costume) and Craig Forrest-Thomas (makeup) perfectly visualize the essence of our loveable Scottish nanny, with a prosthetic mask and padding so well-crafted to bring her to life. David Korins' set design teleports us to a believable, suburban San Francisco neighbourhood, while Phillip S. Rosenberg's lighting and Gareth Owen's sound design elevate the comedy in such a creative fashion, ensuring we don't miss a thing.
Added scenes and musical numbers, such as The Shape Of Things To Come, and additional characters such as Frank Hillard (Ryan Pidgen) with his husband Andre Mayem (Jairus McClanahan) give this stage revival a freshness, keeping it progressive and inclusive for viewers today. Every element complements the other to form the ultimate musical-comedy hit that doesn't feel its length of 2hrs 30m, but instead draws us into an endearing story. As if we are watching the film for the first time all over again.
The message that audiences are left with at the end of Mrs. Doubtfire is that all is needed for the family dynamic is love. It is a motif that transcends time, keeping its relevancy no matter the year, leaving us nostalgic and thinking of our own loved ones.
As my first time seeing this musical adaptation of Mrs. Doubtfire, it is highly accessible and a production for audiences of all ages to enjoy, as evident by the kids, teens, adults and older in the auditorium tonight. If you happen to be around Leeds Grand Theatre before November 29th, and you are looking for a feel-good musical romp filled with laughter and love, we couldn't recommend it enough!!
Mrs. Doubtfire (UK & Ireland Tour) Information: https://www.mrsdoubtfiremusical.co.uk/
Leeds Grand Theatre - What's On: https://leedsheritagetheatres.com/whats-on/
