It’s time to meet Paddington!

It’s Time to Meet Paddington!

01-11-25

London has finally met its newest West End star. As Paddington The Musical begins previews at the Savoy Theatre, producers Sonia Friedman Productions, STUDIOCANAL and Eliza Lumley Productions on behalf of Universal Music UK have revealed the first images and the team responsible for bringing the world’s most beloved bear to life.

Paddington will be played by James Hameed (Off-stage Performer and Remote Puppeteer) and Arti Shah (On-stage Performer). Together, they lead a remarkable team that includes Tahra Zafar as Paddington Bear Designer, Audrey Brisson as Bear Physicality Associate Director, Phill Woodfine as Remote Puppetry Coach, and Annabelle Davis as Paddington Bear Casting Director. Alternate on-stage performers are Abbie Purvis and Ali Sarebani.

Producers Sonia Friedman and Eliza Lumley said, “After many years of exploration and development, we are thrilled, alongside STUDIOCANAL, to finally bring Paddington to life on stage. It takes an extraordinary team to share this very special bear with the world. Our performers James and Arti, our brilliant alternates Abbie and Ali, and the incredible artists led by Tahra, Audrey, Phill and Annabelle have brought true heart and imagination to the process. What we always hoped to achieve was, quite simply, Paddington on stage, and thanks to this exceptional team, we believe we’ve realised that.”

The musical has also announced an extension until 25 October 2026, confirming Paddington’s place as one of the most eagerly awaited new family musicals in the West End.

With music and lyrics by Tom Fletcher, book by Jessica Swale and direction by Luke Sheppard, Paddington The Musical features a starry cast including Bonnie Langford, Brenda Edwards, Victoria Hamilton-Barritt, Amy Ellen Richardson, Timi Akinyosade, Tom Edden and Adrian Der Gregorian.

Adapted from Michael Bond’s timeless stories and the hit STUDIOCANAL films, the production is packed with music, mischief and marmalade. Audiences can expect dazzling choreography, heartfelt performances and a few delightful surprises as Paddington begins his journey from Darkest Peru to Windsor Gardens.

Paddington The Musical opens officially on 30 November, with previews now underway at the Savoy Theatre. A rather wonderful adventure, it seems, has already begun.

Get tickets from the official site HERE