After seven years in development, the highly anticipated Paddington musical has made its triumphant debut at London's Savoy Theatre, bringing Michael Bond's beloved Peruvian bear to life through innovative stagecraft and heartwarming storytelling.
The Magic and Mechanics of Paddington
Two skilled practitioners work in perfect harmony to animate the famous bear each performance. One operator controls the sophisticated animatronic eyes and mouth while another performer physically inhabits the costume, creating a seamless character that captivated opening night audiences.
While the technical achievement is remarkable, the production doesn't shy away from its theatrical nature. The bear's movements occasionally reveal its mechanical origins, with amplified lines coming from stage side rather than the puppet itself. Yet this slight artifice quickly fades into the background as Paddington's undeniable charm takes centre stage.
A Faithful Yet Fresh Adaptation
Drawing inspiration from the first Paddington film, the musical follows the bear's arrival in London and subsequent adoption by the Brown family in their affluent West London neighbourhood. The narrative maintains the original's warmth while introducing thoughtful updates, particularly in its treatment of female characters.
Julie Walters' film character Mrs Bird receives an expanded backstory as a former kickboxer, while the newly introduced Lady Sloane - absent from the films but present in Bond's books - emerges as a "thigh-slapping posho parody" that had audiences in stitches. Amy Booth-Steel's performance in this role proves particularly memorable.
Musical Numbers That Shine
Former McFly member Tom Fletcher's score delivers an array of catchy tunes that span multiple genres. The second act opener "Marmalade" stands out as a particular highlight, featuring dancers costumed as the orange preserve in what reviewers describe as a sublime and whimsical production number.
Other musical highlights include the slapstick-infused "Don't Touch That", the rock opera stylings of "Pretty Little Dead Things", and "The Rhythm of London", which pays tribute to the capital's Caribbean community. The cast receives universal praise, with Tom Edden's portrayal of nosy neighbour Mr Curry generating some of the biggest laughs.
Despite the technological innovations that have dominated headlines, the production ultimately succeeds as a traditional piece of musical theatre that prioritises character and story over spectacle. The show runs at The Savoy Theatre with expectations it will remain a West End fixture for years to come.
