MRS DOUBTFIRE to premiere at Melbourne’s Princess Theatre

One of the most beloved screen comedies of the past three decades is heading to Australia as a joyous, big-hearted stage musical. MRS. DOUBTFIRE will premiere at Melbourne’s Princess Theatre from November 2026, bringing its irresistible blend of humour, heart and high-energy musical theatre spectacle to local audiences for the very first time.

Based on the 1993 hit film that immortalised Robin Williams’ unforgettable performance as the quick-witted nanny Euphegenia Doubtfire, the stage adaptation transforms the story into a vibrant, laugh-out-loud musical comedy packed with new songs, show-stopping choreography and all the iconic moments fans know and love. Directed by four-time Tony Award winner Jerry Zaks, the production promises to deliver both nostalgic charm and fresh theatrical magic.

At its heart, MRS. DOUBTFIRE tells the story of out-of-work actor Daniel Hillard, a devoted but chaotic father whose life is turned upside down following a messy divorce. When a court ruling limits his access to his children, Daniel takes desperate and wildly imaginative action. Disguising himself as a Scottish nanny named Euphegenia Doubtfire, he secures a position in his ex-wife’s household, determined to remain close to his kids at any cost. What begins as an elaborate scheme soon evolves into a journey of self-discovery, forcing Daniel to confront what it truly means to be a parent, a partner and a grown-up.\

Producers Kevin McCollum and Jamie Wilson describe the production as especially meaningful.

Producing MRS. DOUBTFIRE has been an incredible and joyful experience, they said. This show is heartwarming, hilarious and fun for the whole family and we’re delighted that audiences in Melbourne will now get to embrace everybody’s favourite nanny for themselves.

Suzanne Jones of JONES Theatrical Group, who brings the production to Australia in association with McCollum and Wilson, believes Melbourne is the perfect home for its Australian premiere.

We cannot wait to premiere this new musical in Melbourne at the beautiful Princess Theatre, she said. Melbourne is the home of comedy and MRS. DOUBTFIRE is a hilarious and heartfelt musical that proves we’re better together.

The Princess Theatre, one of Australia’s most historic and treasured venues, will provide an appropriately grand backdrop for the show’s mix of theatrical spectacle and intimate family storytelling. Known for hosting major international musicals and long-running productions, the venue has become synonymous with large-scale commercial theatre in Australia.

The musical adaptation has already proven itself on the world stage. Following its Broadway season, MRS. DOUBTFIRE played to sell-out audiences in London’s West End for nearly two years and has toured extensively across the United States. International productions have also played in Germany, South Korea and Brazil, demonstrating the universal appeal of Daniel Hillard’s story. A new UK tour is set to launch in August this year, further cementing the show’s global popularity.

Behind the production is one of Broadway’s most accomplished directors. Jerry Zaks recently helmed his 26th Broadway production, THE MUSIC MAN, starring Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster. His celebrated career also includes the Tony Award-winning revival of HELLO DOLLY!, Steve Martin’s METEOR SHOWER, and the musical adaptation of A BRONX TALE. Across his career, Zaks has received four Tony Awards and eight nominations, along with four Drama Desk Awards, two Outer Critics Circle Awards and an Obie. His work extends to film as well, including directing MARVIN’S ROOM, starring Meryl Streep and Diane Keaton.

On stage, the musical captures the film’s most memorable sequences while expanding its emotional landscape through music and choreography. Audiences can expect elaborate costume transformations, rapid-fire comedy and heartfelt ballads that deepen Daniel’s journey. The production balances laugh-out-loud theatrical set pieces with moments of genuine vulnerability, ensuring it resonates across generations.

Further casting announcements for the Australian premiere will be revealed in the coming months. Audition details are available via the official production website, with creatives and performers across the country eagerly anticipating the opportunity to step into the world of this beloved story.

With its themes of family, forgiveness and finding connection in unexpected ways, Mrs. Doubtfire arrives at a time when audiences continue to seek theatre that entertains while offering emotional depth. The musical’s message, that love and family can take many forms, remains as relevant today as it was when the film first premiered more than thirty years ago.

MRS. DOUBTFIRE will play at Melbourne’s Princess Theatre from November 2026.

For tickets, waitlist access and further information, visit the official website.