With DocDoc being an international success across 37 countries, what drew you to bring Laurent Baffie’s comedy to UK audiences, and how do you think it will resonate here?

Morris Gilbert: Precisely because I saw it being so successful around the world, particularly in my productions in Mexico, Argentina, and Israel. I thought that, being so universal, it was essential to bring it to UK audiences and share with them this highly intelligent, comedic, and moving piece of theatre.

Óskar Eiriksson: I was fortunate enough to have seen the show, by coincidence, when I was visiting my producing partner Morris in Mexico. Of course the show was in Spanish, and even though I don’t speak a word, I was blown away by the show’s physical comedy and energy, and judging by the audience’s brilliant reaction, I knew we had to bring it to the UK….and finally, here we are!

The play tackles themes of mental health and obsessive-compulsive disorders with humor. How do you balance addressing sensitive topics while maintaining the comedic tone?

Morris Gilbert: I believe the best thing we can do is learn to laugh at ourselves. Laughter is often the best remedy, and the team approaches these sensitive topics in a respectful yet lighthearted way. Being able to laugh at these challenges is the best form of empowerment.

Óskar Eiriksson: Cliches like laughter being the best medicine are there for a reason, and given all of the weight of the world right now, I think ‘Doc Doc’ is a humorous but moving way of bringing the focus onto what is really important- respecting and caring for one another, and of course, laughing.

You’ve both produced iconic works globally. How does DocDoc fit into your broader vision of bringing diverse and impactful productions to new markets?

Morris Gilbert: It’s incredibly exciting to explore new territories and discover fresh ways to communicate through theatre. Connecting with local cultures in this way not only enhances the production but enriches everyone involved.

Óskar Eiriksson: I love the fact that, being about the human condition, Doc Doc is so very relatable and touching to everyone who sees it. To me, the show has no borders and having worked in theatre internationally for years, this hilarious piece is the perfect fit.

The UK premiere of DocDoc is in partnership with UK anxiety charity No Panic. Can you tell us more about this collaboration and its significance to the production?

Morris Gilbert: This collaboration was crucial for us because we know that those who suffer from OCD often identify deeply with the characters in the production and appreciate seeing their experiences represented on stage in such an intelligent way. Partnering with a mental health organization is a natural fit for this play; we’ve done it in other countries where it’s been performed, and it’s always been a mutually beneficial arrangement.

Óskar Eiriksson: We are so pleased about the partnership! Being a comedy with content of a serious nature, we feel it’s important that it’s clear that the issues are taken seriously as the show opens minds and helps to heal through comedy.

What was your process for assembling such a talented creative team, including Ian Talbot as director and the celebrated cast, to ensure the play’s success in its UK debut?

Morris Gilbert: When producing theatre, you have to trust in the process and, sometimes, in fate. I didn’t know all the talented people who are now part of this creative team, but I believed the play would attract the right individuals. Meeting Ian Talbot has been a dream come true, and our cast is absolutely brilliant. We sought each other out until we came together—luck was definitely on our side.

Óskar Eiriksson: We are thrilled to have Ian with us. We clicked instantly and he is an absolute dream to work with, and all of us with Debbie O’Brien as our casting director and Ian at the helm, we came to find this incredibly talented and funny cast – a perfect fit!