Mrs. Doubtfire is on Fire at The Fabulous Fox Theatre in Saint Louis
Photo by Joan Marcus
–by Ashley Cox
Families wishing to extend their holiday festivities can see the beloved 90s family movie turned hit Broadway musical, Mrs. Doubtfire, playing now and running through January 7th.
Photo by Joan Marcus
On this tour members of the originating cast, includes lead Rob McClure as the titular Doubtfire and Daniel Hillard. For opening night, McClure had extended his holiday with real life wife Maggie Lakis who normally plays the ex-wife role, Miranda Hillard. Still, I was excited to see someone who could fill the looming presence of Robin Williams, and while he didn’t quite capture that Williams magic, understudies Alex Branton as Daniel and Dance Captain Julie Kavanaugh as Miranda left nothing to be desired.
Photo by Joan Marcus
In fact, the entire cast was phenomenal… probably one of the best touring casts that I have seen in a long time. I thoroughly enjoyed the show moving through all waves of emotions: laughter during Branton’s quick changes, the feeling of being overwhelmed and frustrated for Miranda, and most poignantly, sad for the children caught in the middle. They say never work with kids or animals, but Giselle Gutierrez as Lydia, Cody Braverman as Chris, and Emerson Mae Chan as Natalie stole the show. Their song, “What the Hell” captures the confusing emotions of suddenly navigating hurt adults and unsure emotions.
Photo by Joan Marcus
The audience had the best reaction to “Make Me a Woman.” I was wondering how the iconic chair spinning scene of various disguises would be managed… elaborate on stage quick changes? I was wrong. Almost every member of the ensemble had elaborate costuming. The quality of the songs, tricks, and choreography put almost every ensemble piece into the level I would expect of an Act closure in other productions.
Photo by Joan Marcus
Fans of Broadway and the hit movie do not want to miss the chance to see this production while in town. Tickets are selling fast, they are on sale now at The Fabulous Fox Theatre website. Next up on the schedule is Alanis Morissette’s jagged little pill running January 19th through the 21st followed by Funny Girl, January 23rd through February 4th.