Not since Everybody’s Talking About Jamie (2017) has a new West End musical been this good. The Broadway musical adaptation of Mrs. Doubtfire (2021) is a nostalgia-fest that strikes the perfect balance between calling on the legendary and beloved 1993 film, giving the audience what they want, and injecting it with everything required to make it fresh, new, and — above all — a bonafide musical.

Of course, it IS broad. How could it not be?! But beyond some simplistic lyrics (Wayne and Karey Kirkpatrick), and the occasional dramatic moment squandered for the sake of speed (book by Karey Kirkpatrick and John O’Farrell), the show comes with bags of heart. The music (also Wayne and Karey Kirkpatrick) is particularly romantic at times, with direction (Jerry Zaks) and choreography (Lorin Lataro) that goes a long way to make the whole thing pleasing on the eye.

The performances are universally strong. Gabriel Vick as Hillard/Doubtfire is equally touching as the estranged father and hilarious as the twinkly-eyed nanny. Laura Tebbutt is a formidable match for him, with a soaring voice to boot. In addition to the iconic scenes from the film (based on the 1987 novel), there are so many hilarious new moments; most notably a mad YouTuber chef with crazy eyes and patronising voice (Ellie Mitchell) – a show-stealing turn.

On Broadway, the musical was a critical and commercial disaster; interrupted time and again by Covid, and disgruntled audiences. But judging by the belly laughs and standing ovation here in London, Mrs. Doubtfire has found her true home. London is calling out for expertly executed, fresh MT, and thank goodness we have it here in this charming adaptation. For the West End, “Help is on the way, dear!”

Playing at the Shaftesbury Theatre 12 May 2023 – 13 January 2024.