TPAC's Arts Appetizer Podcasts · Tennessee Performing Arts Center

The Cast of Mrs. Doubtfire

November 10, 2023·27 min·2 clips

Hear how Mrs. Doubtfire survived COVID closures to become a hit touring Broadway show.

This episode features a discussion with composer Wayne Kirkpatrick and cast members Rob McClure, Aaron Kaburick, and David Hibbert from the touring production of "Mrs. Doubtfire." Host Kristen Horsley from TPAC Education leads the conversation about the musical's journey. The panelists share their backgrounds and roles in the show. The musical experienced a tumultuous path, opening on Broadway, closing due to COVID-19, and later reopening before launching its national tour. Rob McClure plays the lead role of Daniel Hillard, who disguises himself as the titular nanny. Aaron Kaburick portrays Frank Hillard, Daniel's brother in the production. David Hibbert performs multiple roles, including a judge, Mr. Jolly, and a doctor throughout the show. Composer Wayne Kirkpatrick discusses his work on the musical's score and songs. The cast describes the fantastic audience response the touring production has been receiving. They detail the process of adapting the beloved film into a stage musical format. Specific creative challenges involved translating the film's iconic prosthetic and quick-change elements for live theater. A memorable insight is Hibbert's humorous description of his multi-role performance as a "Where's Waldo?" experience for the audience. The discussion highlights the resilience of the production team and cast through the pandemic shutdown. Kirkpatrick and McClure explain the emotional depth added to the characters beyond the film's comedy. The tone is conversational and celebratory, focusing on shared experiences and artistic collaboration. The style is informal and anecdotal, with each contributor offering personal reflections. This episode would appeal to theater enthusiasts, fans of the original film, and those interested in Broadway production stories. Listeners seeking a highly critical or technical analysis of musical theater might find it too light.

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