Review: The Doris Show – Guildford Fringe

Published on: 10 Sep, 2026
Updated on: 9 Sep, 2026

Jackie Mitchell in The Doris Show

By Alice Fowler

Jackie Mitchell wears many hats – journalist, PR professional, radio presenter at Brooklands Radio and, it turns out, talented stage performer too.

For one night only at the Guildford Fringe, Mitchell successfully metamorphosed into Hollywood star and singer Doris Day, in a glorious one-woman tribute, The Doris Show.

Mitchell comes from theatrical stock and this shows in her performance: mastering Day’s Midwest accent and belting out her songs, from The Deadwood Stage to Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps, with expression and aplomb.

While simple in format, The Doris Show is full of heart. Mitchell, who wrote the show herself, takes us from Day’s birth in 1922 in Cincinnati, Ohio; to early ventures on stage, first as a dancer, then a singer; to her several husbands; leading men from Ronald Reagan to Rex Harrison; her life-long love of animals; and on through many of her favourite songs.

In blonde wig, polka dot dress and a dash of diamanté, Mitchell manages to exude just the kind of glamour, humour and twinkly mischief that made Day a household name. Her top notes may waver now and then, but her star appeal ensured the audience at the Back Room of The Star sang along with gusto.

Hats off, then, to Doris Day, Jackie Mitchell and the Guildford Fringe, for bringing such a variety of entertainment to our doorstep.

For more information, visit www.dorisdaydream.com.

For information on the Guildford Fringe, see:  guildfordfringefestival.com/

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