Last chance: Mrs. Doubtfire is the main character energy we need, now in Toronto

Let’s be real: January in Toronto is usually a vibe of hibernation, heavy parkas, and at-home entertainment. But why stay under a duvet when the most famous nanny in history is currently setting the Princess of Wales Theatre on fire (metaphorically, though the kitchen scene is pretty epic)? The iconic and beloved Mrs. Doubtfire has finally made her way to the Mirvish Productions stage and she’s exactly the shot of serotonin we’ve all been craving. But don’t sleep on the show – Mrs. Doubtfire: The Musical ends its Toronto run on January 18. 

via GIPHY

Based on the 1993 film we all know and love starring Robin Williams, Mrs. Doubtfire: The Musical tells the story of Daniel Hillard, an out-of-work actor who will stop at nothing – quite literally – to stay connected to his children. After a messy divorce leaves him with extremely limited visitation, Daniel transforms himself into the stern yet lovable female Scottish nanny, Euphegenia Doubtfire, to land a job in his ex-wife’s (played by Melissa Campbell) home. And we all know what happens next. 

Blending nostalgic movie moments with big Broadway numbers and record-breaking quick-changes, the production is a hilarious yet heartwarming exploration of family and resilience. If you’ve experienced divorce, you may want to pack a tissue or two. It also does a good job of seamlessly incorporating modern updates, like YouTube and Siri for the kitchen scene.

Stepping into the orthopedic shoes of a legend like Robin Williams is obviously no small feat, but leading man Craig Allen Smith does it with incredible heart and a killer Scottish accent to match. He impressively perfects his transitions between the two characters and the ability to quickly change costumes – sometimes, in less than 20 seconds. We managed to steal a few moments with Smith to talk about the madness of his backstage quick-changes, his very “husband-style” skincare routine, and what it’s like being a dad both on and off the stage.

Erin Nicole Davis: How familiar were you with the film Mrs. Doubtfire before learning of the on-stage production?
CAS: I have always loved the film Mrs. Doubtfire ever since it came out. I must have seen the movie in the theatre with my best friend at least five times. It had a huge impact on my life, and eventually my career.

ED: Do you have a favourite song that helps you get into character?
CAS: The opening number really sets the tone for the show. It’s called “Well, That’s Daniel,” and it’s all about Daniel, who he is, and what’s happening to his life, so I’d say that jump starts it for me.

ED: You wear a custom prosthetic mask for the role. How much does that change how you have to use your facial expressions to make sure the audience in the back row can still “see” Daniel’s emotions?
CAS: The mask is open at the mouth and just below the eyes. So Steve Edlund, our Tour Director, was really focused on making sure the audience could see Mrs. Doubtfire’s eyes and being able to show emotion.

ED: What is your post-show skincare routine to save your face from all that “Doubtfire” friction?
CAS: As for the post-show skincare routine, I’m a typical man and just shower and then put on some facial moisturizer when my wife tells me to. Lol.

ED: There are dozens of quick changes in the show. How does that work, logistically? Which one was the hardest to master, and have you ever had a wardrobe malfunction where Mrs. Doubtfire almost went out without her wig or glasses?
CAS: I have a wonderful team of dressers that help with all the costume changes. We have it down to a precise science now. Knock on wood, I haven’t had to go without any pieces of costume. As for malfunctions, there has been the occasional dropped wig, earrings, or glasses. In that case, you just pick it up, put it on, and carry on.

ED: You have to switch between Daniel’s voice and Euphegenia’s voice mid-sentence. Do you have a specific vocal warm-up that helps you find that perfect Scottish lilt every night?
CAS: I don’t really. I’ve seen the movie so much and have always had this character in my arsenal since I was 12; it’s just second nature.

ED: This role is obviously so closely tied to Robin Williams. How do you balance paying homage to his legendary performance while still making the character of Daniel your own?
Craig Allen Smith (CAS): Well, we certainly pay homage to Robin with all of the well-known nostalgic bits from the movie, but we also were able to adapt Daniel’s character on a more personal level. Since I’m also a divorced father with kids who live with their mother, I’ve been able to pull from my own life to bring the character to life.

ED: Between the heavy costumes, the padding, and the high-energy dance numbers (like “Make Me a Woman”), how do you keep up your stamina for an eight-show week?
CAS: Rest. Rest. Rest. Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydrate. And coffee. Lots of coffee in the morning and then the gym actually. I’ve had to treat this role as a professional athlete would have to treat their profession.

ED: You work closely with three young actors playing your children. What’s the funniest thing that’s happened backstage with the kids during this tour?
CAS: It wasn’t backstage per se, but it actually happened onstage. One such moment was when one of the kids came onstage, and their shoe was just off. So we did a quick improv to get them to put it on, and on we went. Offstage, another child tends to fall down a LOT. So much so when they run offstage, other actors wait in the wings to catch them!

ED: What do you hope the audience takes away from this production?
CAS: I hope they take away a bit of nostalgia, a lot of laughs, and a ton of heart for the love they have for their family whatever that may look like.

ED: Since this is the only Canadian stop on the North American tour, is there anything specific in Toronto you’re excited to see or eat while you’re here?
CAS: Just the usual tourist stuff: going up the CN Tower, grabbing a peameal bacon sandwich at St. Lawrence Market!

Get your tickets before it’s too late — its only here for a limited time.

Mrs. Doubtfire: The Musical makes for a memorable, feel-good night at the theatre, one that will both tug on your heart strings and make you laugh out loud. It’s the perfect opportunity to soak up all the nostalgic feels in the dead of winter. The musical is playing at the Princess of Wales Theatre until January 18, 2026. Find tickets here.