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Paddington The Musical is coming to London
The all-singing, all-dancing Paddington Musical will make its world premiere this autumn at the Savoy Theatre
Start hiding the marmalade. Everyone’s favourite bear is set to make his stage debut as Paddington The Musical opens its doors on 1 November 2025 at London’s Savoy Theatre.
Adapted from Michael Bond’s timeless books and inspired by the hit StudioCanal films, Paddington The Musical will bring the marmalade-loving Peruvian bear to the heart of the West End in a brand-new musical stage adventure. The show is being brought to life by a formidable creative team: Tom Fletcher of McFly is writing the music and lyrics, playwright Jessica Swale pens the book, and & Juliet director Luke Sheppard is at the helm.
So what’s it all about? Just like the stories that made him famous, Paddington arrives in London from darkest Peru, suitcase in paw and label around his neck, in search of a home. He finds it with the Brown family – but not before getting himself into the kind of mischief that has made him beloved by generations. Alongside classic characters the musical will introduce some new faces, all while exploring themes of family, belonging, and what it really means to find your place in the world.
“It really is a pinch-me moment and the most special thing I’ve ever been a part of,” Fletcher told WhatsOnStage, describing seeing the show’s early development as “pure theatrical magic” (all while keeping tight-lipped on exactly how Paddington himself is being brought to life on stage).
Swale echoed his sentiment. “Paddington is so much more than a fictional character,” she said. “He’s come to represent hope, kindness and acceptance – it’s never felt like a more apt time to bring this story to the stage.” And as for Fletcher’s songs? “Extraordinary,” she said. “Earworms on a first listen.”
Director Luke Sheppard has been dreaming big: “It’s been thrilling to see this show grow into something very special, packing an incredible new score and a heart-wrenching script into a marmalade-filled suitcase.” The production, he says, will reveal “Paddington as you’ve never seen him before,” all while celebrating the wonder of live theatre.
Produced by Sonia Friedman, Eliza Lumley, and StudioCanal on behalf of Universal Music UK, Paddington The Musical is shaping up to be a high-profile addition to the West End’s 2025 season. As Sonia Friedman and Eliza Lumley put it: “Paddington represents so much that is good in the world – kindness, warmth and decency – and it’s an immense privilege to look after this bear.”
Anna Marsh, CEO of StudioCanal, called the project a chance to continue Paddington’s journey “with heart, humour, wonder and vivid imagination.” It’s a fitting tribute to Bond’s original invitation: Please look after this bear.
Check back here for tickets to Paddington The Musical when they go on sale.
