The beloved bear from Darkest Peru has officially taken up residence in London's West End, and theatre critics are united in declaring 'Paddington: The Musical' at the Savoy Theatre a resounding, heartwarming success. Based on Michael Bond's classic stories and the hit films, this eagerly anticipated production is being hailed as a potential new family classic.
A Technologically Triumphant Bear
Central to the show's magic is the state-of-the-art animatronic Paddington, a puppet designed by Tahra Zafar. Critics marvelled at how the bear blinks bashfully, wrinkles his muzzle with pathos, and delivers an adorable wiggle. The performance is a team effort: James Hameed provides the voice from the wings, while Arti Shah inhabits the costume on stage, bringing the iconic character to life with remarkable charm.
The Brown family is recognisably portrayed, with Adrian Der Gregorian and Amy Ellen Richardson as the risk-averse dad and arty mum. Delilah Bennett-Cardy and Jasper Rowse play children Judy and Jonathan, while Bonnie Langford steals scenes as the wise housekeeper, Mrs Bird, reportedly bringing the house down with a show-stopping number.
A Maximalist, Bohemian London
Directed by Luke Sheppard with a script by Jessica Swale, the plot draws from the first Paddington film, following the bear's journey from an inhospitable London to finding a home. Set designer Tom Pye creates a warm, multicultural, and gorgeously maximalist evocation of bohemian London, making stunning use of the Savoy's high ceiling with a mosaic of projected images.
The production is packed with memorable moments, from Paddington trying on his duffle coat for the first time to the chaotic set-piece song 'Don't Touch That', where his curiosity causes domestic havoc. Tom Edden is highlighted for his hilarious performance as the killjoy neighbour, Mr Curry, who gets some of the script's best lines.
Critical Acclaim and Emotional Punch
While some reviewers noted the plot has familiar holes and the songs by McFly's Tom Fletcher may not all be instant classics, the emotional impact is undeniable. Critics described the show as 'the new Mary Poppins'—imaginatively staged, immaculately performed, and utterly winning.
They praised its strong message of welcoming foreigners and championing kindness and tolerance, finding it both uplifting and consistently funny. Fiona Mountford of the i Paper declared, 'Every detail of this show is exquisite', predicting it will become a proudly British export.
'Paddington: The Musical' is booking at the Savoy Theatre in London until 25 October. With its blend of technical wizardry, heartfelt storytelling, and sheer joy, it is positioned as a very welcome addition to the British musical family, promising to charm audiences of all ages.
