Karey Kirkpatrick, Wayne Kirkpatrick, and John O'Farrell's musical version of Mrs. Doubtfire, adapted from the 1993 film, has joined the licensing catalogue of Music Theatre International. The title has not yet been released for new productions.
The acquisition places the musical alongside the Kirkpatricks' earlier musical Something Rotten!, which is also licensed by MTI.
The musical follows struggling actor Daniel Hillard who, after losing custody of his beloved children in a bitter divorce, poses as an elderly, female nanny to get some undercover time with his kids. Robin Williams starred in the original film, with Tony-winning Broadway legend Harvey Fierstein making a memorable cameo as his brother. The musical version, which features a book by Karey Kirkpatrick and O'Farrell and a score by both Kirkpatricks, played a Broadway run in 2020 before launching a U.S. tour and crossing the pond to London's West End. A second U.S. tour is scheduled to launch in September.
“We are incredibly excited to represent Mrs. Doubtfire, which John, Karey, and Wayne have masterfully brought to life on stage," says MTI President and CEO Drew Cohen in a statement. "The tremendous and continuing success of the national tour and the recent West End production prove the enduring, audience-pleasing success of the show, following on from its Broadway run. It’s not easy to build upon a classic film, but Mrs. Doubtfire succeeds because it delivers laughs and heart, with several great roles, all in one beautiful theatrical package."
“It’s been an absolute privilege to work on this beloved title, not only because of the many comedic opportunities this premise presents but also because, as fathers, we could all relate to the story of a dad who would do anything to be with his kids,” adds O'Farrell and the Kirkpatricks in a joint statement. “After Broadway and a successful two-year West End run, as well as an enthusiastically received stints in Brazil and South Korea, we are looking forward to sharing this classic and iconic story with the rest of world and can think of no one better than MTI to partner with in this endeavor. For anyone looking for a great, funny, moving family show, HELP IS ON THE WAY, DEARS!”
Those interested in mounting their own productions can sign up for licensing updates at MTIShows.com.
Rob McClure in the original Broadway production of Mrs. Doubtfire
