The latest Broadway opening is the new musical comedy “Mrs. Doubtfire” based on the immensely popular 1993 film which starred Robin Williams in the leading role. The plot revolves around a divorced dad, who loses custody of his three children, and poses as an elderly English nanny when his ex-wife starts searching for someone to help with the children and the household duties. Rob McClure steps into the role of Mrs. Doubtfire and gives an entertaining performance. Although it is said “imitation is the best form of flattery”, mimicry in this case does not lend any originality to the role, so Mr. McClure never completely owns it. The book by Karey Kirkpatrick and John O’Farrell moves the situation to the present with mixed results, having not completely revamped all scenes to reflect the change. Choreography by Lorin Latarro supports the fast-paced script and successfully covers extensive costume changes but lacks ingenuity. Music and lyrics by Wayne Kirkpatrick and Karey Kirkpatrick serve their purpose but do nothing to elevate the musical and are somewhat forgettable. Director Jerry Zaks is at the helm steadily guiding his cast through the material, keeping the action at a fast pace but at times characters fall into stereotypical behavior. The outcome may produce some bright sparks but never catches on fire.

The exceptionally talented cast does what it can but cannot seem to transcend the obstacles they run into, including competing with the star-studded cast of the original movie. Mr. McClure turns in an endearing performance that fills his character with determination and vulnerability. He creates a modern-day dad that is funny and honest that allows the audience to never doubt the love he has for his children. Jenn Gambatese presents the working mom with a no-nonsense attitude flanked by waves of vulnerability. Avery Sell as the youngest child makes an impressionable Broadway debut. Jake Ryan Flynn, as the middle child and only son, creates a wonderful, warm bond with his dad while still maintaining an air of disappointment and confusion. Analise Scarpaci fills the eldest child with teenage angst that conveys her pain and frustration without diminishing her characters integrity. Her vocals add strength to her persona.

This Mrs. Doubtfire might have some shortcomings but fulfills the one requirement that makes it a worthwhile theater-going experience. It provides good family entertainment. It has the feel of a good old-fashioned musical comedy and moves at a very rapid pace. It may not burst into roaring flames, but it causes enough heat to deliver a warm and bright welcome back to Broadway after being in the dark for too long.