Meet Two of the Artists Who Help Bring Mrs. Doubtfire to Life on Stage
Blog By: Lucas Casterline
The hit comedy musical “Mrs. Doubtfire” hit the DPAC stage from October 30-November 1, 2026. The musical is directly inspired from the 1993 family and comedy film of the same name starring Robin Williams.
On opening night at DPAC, I had the opportunity to shadow the House Manager on duty. I got to meet lots of employees at DPAC who all work in different areas. I learned what to do in cases of emergency and I even got to play the pre-show playlist, as well as the message that lets audience members know when seating has opened up.
I was not sure what to except from the musical, but since I love the movie I had pretty high expectations. As expected, I loved the musical so much. The songs were super catchy, the choreo was fun, and the humor has spot-on.
After the show, the other Ambassadors and I met the show’s music director Eli Bigelow. We also met actress Kennedy V. Jackson who plays Wanda Sellner in the show. It was really inspiring and eye-opening to hear stories and ask advice from two professionals who work in the theatre industry.
One thing in particular that I found inspiring was getting to hear why Eli Bigelow and Kennedy V. Jackson chose to become a part of the “Mrs. Doubtfire” musical. Both explained how their appreciation for Robin Williams and his work was a big inspiration to them. Eli Bigelow said that he grew up around music, sharing ties to music with his father and grandfather. He explained how he also had the opportunity to direct the music in the touring production of “Kinky Boots,” but chose to go with “Mrs. Doubtfire” instead. In the musical, Kennedy V. Jackson plays the social worker Wanda Sellner. In the show, Wanda Sellner is appointed to make sure that Daniel is fit to take care of his children following his divorce with his wife. She is uptight and she means business. Kennedy V. Jackson explained how much the role of Wanda Sellner means to her, as her grandmother (who served as a major inspiration to her) was a social worker for around 40 years.
Both Eli Bigelow and Kennedy V. Jackson also both explained what they love about touring and getting to see new places and how that allows them to just really live in the moment. They also explained their love of theatre and their deep appreciation for it.
My experience at “Mrs. Doubtfire” was nothing short of incredible! From shadowing the House Manager and seeing a new musical to having a Talkback with the music director and one of the actresses from the show, I really enjoyed my time at DPAC! I would definitely recommend this show to everyone and it’s safe to say I will be adding some new songs to my theatre playlist!
