NME Afterprint: Laughter, Loss, and Love: Revisiting Mrs. Doubtfire on Stage
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Seeing Mrs. Doubtfire at Popejoy Hall was one of those nights where you walk in expecting to be entertained, and leave feeling something much deeper.
I’ll be honest, this was my first time seeing the stage production, and revisiting this story after being divorced for almost six years hit me in a completely different way. What once felt like a comedy about disguise and chaos now felt layered with heart, growth, and the complicated reality of family, love, and starting over. It gave the story a whole new perspective that I wasn’t expecting. But one I truly appreciated.
From the very beginning, the energy on stage was undeniable. Craig Allen Smith as Daniel Hillard carried the show with a balance of humor and vulnerability that made Daniel feel both larger-than-life and incredibly human. Plus, the voices! The man is talented. Opposite him, Melissa Campbell as Miranda Hillard grounded the story with strength and emotional clarity, giving Miranda a presence that felt real and relatable.
The family dynamic was just as impactful. Alanis Sophia as Lydia Hillard, Theodore Lowenstein as Christopher Hillard, and Ava Rose Doty as Natalie Hillard brought authenticity to the stage, making the emotional stakes of the story feel genuine. You felt the connection and the tension through every scene.
And then there were those standout supporting performances that added so much texture to the show. Kennedy V. Jackson, as Wanda Sellner, delivered with confidence and charisma. Brian Kalinowski as Frank Hillard brought a zany and boisterous energy that lit up every moment he was a part of. Devon Wycovia Buchanan as Andre Mayem was absolutely diva-like and fierce, commanding attention and adding a bold, unforgettable presence. Scott Taylor-Cole, as Mr. Jolly clearly understood how to lean into the humor of each moment.
But one of the most memorable moments of the night came during the dinner scene, thanks to Kirstin Angelina Henry as the Flamenco Singer. Her performance was absolutely hilarious and completely elevated the scene. It was one of those moments where you could feel the audience collectively leaning in—and then bursting out with laughter. She didn’t just perform the role; she owned it, and it made that entire sequence shine.
The musical numbers were well thought out and definitely carried the story forward. There were a few standout performances musically that really stayed with me. “Make Me a Woman” was just fun—full of personality and humor that had the audience locked in. “It’s About Time” and “I’m Rockin’ Now” brought a great sense of momentum, while “Playing with Fire” added that extra edge and tension that made the story feel grounded. And “He Lied to Me” was one of those moments that lands hard. It’s raw, honest, and necessary.
But where the show really got me was in the emotional numbers.
“Let Go,” “Just Pretend,” and “As Long as There is Love” hit in a way I didn’t expect. Sitting there, I could feel the weight of those moments, not just as part of the story, but personally. Those songs captured something real about relationships, about letting go, and about holding on to love even when things change. That’s where the show really shines.
There were a few moments when the vocals competed with the music. The balance wasn’t always perfect, and there were times when I had to focus a little harder to catch everything. It didn’t take away from the overall experience.
At the end of the night, this was a show that delivered. It was funny. It was heartfelt. It was relatable in ways I didn’t expect. And it reminded me why stories like this continue to resonate—because they reflect real life, just with a little more music and a lot more wigs.
It was simply an enjoyable night at the theater.
Mrs. Doubtfire runs from April 23-26 at Popejoy Hall. Tickets are available at popejoypresents.com.
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