The gods of musical theatre have certainly looked after this bear. Filled with whimsy and wonder, Paddington the Musical is lovingly and lavishly produced. 

As British as tea, taxis and Tower Bridge, dear little Paddington Bear has been loved for well over 60 years, starring in over 30 children’s books by creator Michael Bond, having more than one television series, and headlining a hugely successful recent movie trilogy. Paddington the Musical is based upon the book A Bear Called Paddington and the film series, particularly Paddington (2014), with a book by Jessica Swale and music and lyrics by Tom Fletcher (of McFly fame). 

While the concept alone would surely have attracted plenty of audience members, the evident passion and care that have gone into the musical’s creation elevate it to a higher echelon. The musical luxuriates in peak creative design, expertly and generously realised on a grand scale. 

Delighting the audience with a first appearance to rival that of Dolly Levi. Paddington himself is ingeniously performed by two artists; at this performance, Abbie Purvis acted the role in the suit designed by Tahra Zafar, and James Hameed provided the voice and worked the remote puppetry.  The endearing combined effect is astonishingly natural and readily allows for the suspension of disbelief in watching a Peruvian bear as a fully fledged character in a musical.

Firmly set in present day London, Paddington the Musical sees the sweet little Peruvian bear picked up at Paddington station by the vaguely dysfunctional Brown family. The curious bear wrecks a little havoc before settling into his new home, only to be snatched away by Millicent Clyde who wants him as one of her “Pretty Little Dead Things” at the Natural History Museum. 

Director Luke Sheppard strikes the perfect balance of family entertainment and legitimate musical theatre, delivering rousing full company numbers, deft comedy, and poignant pathos. Spectacular staging adds significantly to the enjoyment and yet never overwhelms the heart of the story. Choreographer Ellen Kane makes London dance in nimble yet very natural style. 

Fletcher’s score is instantly accessible, balancing sweet ballads with big numbers, highlights of which include act one showstopper “The Rhythm of London” and act two opener “Marmalade.” Musical director Laura Bungay, on keys, leads nine fellow musicians to bring the new music to rich, toe-tapping life. 

Eschewing the current trend for LCD screens, scenic designer Tom Pye delivers an abundance of large scale solid sets. Scenic design extends into the auditorium for a wonderfully immersive effect. Animated videos (Ash J Woodward) and illustrations (Majid Adin) complement the solid scenery, particularly when more fanciful scenes are staged.

Costume designer Gabriella Slade enhances contemporary dress with theatrical touches, bringing out her most inventive costumes for the “Marmalade” extravaganza. 

Amy Ellen Richardson and Adrian Der Gregorian neatly juggle comedy and family drama as the initially overwhelmed Brown parents. 

Victoria Hamilton-Barritt goes full Bond villain as the devilish Millicent Clyde. Tom Edden delights with his usual air of wacky spontaneity as local taxi driver Mr Curry. 

Bonnie Langford is in her element as daft Scottish houseguest Mrs Bird, raising the roof with her fabulous anthem “It’s Never Too Late.” Amy Booth-Steel is a hoot as plummy Geographers Guild president Lady Sloane. 

It can only be hoped that Paddington the Musical will run forever. Book a ticket to Paddington the Musical as soon as you book your trip to London. 

Paddington the Musical was reviewed 7pm Tuesday 18 November 2025 where it plays at Savoy Theatre, London. For tickets, click here. 

Photos: Jonah Persson

Watch the teaser trailer for Paddington the Musical: