If you’re a fan of the 1993 classic film Mrs Doubtfire, then get ready to fall in love all over again! When my friend Laura and I booked our tickets to see Mrs Doubtfire at the Shaftesbury Theatre, we hoped for a fun night out, a bit of nostalgia, and maybe a few laughs. What we got was so much more. And yes, we even went all out with a Mrs Doubtfire-themed dinner beforehand at Colonel Saab in Holborn – an Indian feast just five minutes away from the theatre that set the tone perfectly for a night of fun and laughter.
The production itself was a joy from start to finish. Stepping into Robin Williams’ oversized shoes is no small task, but the lead actor in this adaptation was absolutely fantastic, nailing every line, every silly voice, and every slapstick stumble. You could feel the effort and care that went into bringing this beloved character to life. The entire cast was incredible, bringing energy and warmth to every scene. Laura and I were instantly hooked, and it seemed the whole audience was too – there was laughter and even a few happy tears around us throughout the show!
The Shaftesbury Theatre was the ideal setting for this magical night. This grand, old theatre is full of character, with beautiful detailing and history that just adds to the atmosphere. Sitting close to the stage, we were able to soak in every hilarious expression and costume quirk up close. The theatre is well-kept and clean, retaining its classic charm and offering a comfortable experience.
The musical: A fresh, fun twist on the original
Now, let’s talk about the musical itself. To be honest, we didn’t quite know what to expect. Some recent movie-to-musical adaptations have felt like mere cash grabs, but Mrs Doubtfire is the real deal. The writing sparkles with wit, the new songs fit perfectly with the story, and the pace never lags. The theatre was filled with laughter as Daniel – our chaotic dad-in-disguise – transformed into the lovable Scottish nanny in scene after scene.
The creators have even managed to breathe a bit of modern sensibility into this ’90s classic. There’s a fantastic number called Make Me a Woman that dives headfirst into the camp fun of Daniel’s transformation. And his flamboyant brother and brother-in-law? Let’s just say they know how to throw a makeover party, summoning the spirit of icons like Cher and Tina Turner in a sequined disco extravaganza.
A particular highlight was the restaurant scene, where Daniel has to switch between himself and Mrs Doubtfire in seconds, keeping his family and his secret identity precariously balanced. The flamenco-inspired song He Lied to Me had the whole audience clapping along, as Daniel juggled costumes and personas with hilarious results.
Heart and humour for the whole family
Beneath the humour and hijinks, Mrs Doubtfire has a heartwarming message about family, resilience, and the power of love – even when it’s messy. While many ’90s films made divorce feel like a punchline, this show feels refreshingly real, honouring the bonds of family in all their complicated forms.
In the end, the entire theatre was on its feet, singing, clapping, and dancing. The joyful atmosphere was infectious. It’s the kind of show you can enjoy whether you’re a teenager or a parent, a fan of the original film, or coming to the story for the first time.
Our verdict: A must-see West End treat
Mrs Doubtfire is a must-see for anyone looking to escape for an evening and share some laughs. Whether you’re reliving the nostalgia or experiencing the magic for the first time, this is a show that delivers on all fronts. Laura and I would return in a heartbeat, and if you’re considering a fun night out with family or friends, don’t hesitate to book those tickets. Just be ready to clap, laugh, and maybe even dance a bit at the end!
