Paddington – The Musical Premiere 2025 Full Review

This autumn, London’s West End welcomes a heartwarming new adaptation of Michael Bond’s cherished bear. Paddington The Musical will premiere at the Savoy Theatre, with previews beginning on 1 November and the official opening on 30 November.

For over six decades, people have come to love Paddington Bear. His politeness, clumsiness, and that signature love for marmalade sandwiches have warmed the hearts of viewers for many years. Now, for the very first time, he is stepping onto the stage.

Creative Team and Production Origins

Music & Lyrics by Tom Fletcher (of McFly fame)
Book by Olivier Award–winning playwright Jessica Swale, known for Nell Gwynn
Direction by Luke Sheppard, acclaimed for & Juliet and In The Heights
Co-produced by Sonia Friedman Productions, STUDIOCANAL, and Eliza Lumley Productions on behalf of Universal Music UK

Story, Themes & Stagecraft

The musical follows Paddington’s journey from Peru to 32 Windsor Gardens, where he finds a home with the Brown family. But even amid the coziness of afternoon teas and marmalade, danger looms, forcing the Browns to choose what they’re willing to risk for this special bear.

Playwright Jessica Swale emphasises the importance of honouring Paddington’s identity as a refugee, weaving themes of migration, acceptance, and belonging into the narrative. The production promises a fresh blend of recognisable characters, such as Mr. Gruber and the Browns, along with new surprises.

Audiences can expect a marmalade-packed adventure filled with catchy songs, lively choreography, inventive staging, and all the warmth and humour that define the Paddington legacy.

Cast Highlights

Timi Akinyosade as Tony
Delilah Bennett-Cardy as Judy Brown
Amy Booth-Steel as Lady Sloane
Tarinn Callender as Grant
Adrian Der Gregorian as Mr Brown
Tom Edden as Mr Curry
Brenda Edwards as Tanya
Amy Ellen Richardson as Mrs Brown
Victoria Hamilton-Barritt as Millicent Clyde
Teddy Kempner as Mr Gruber
Bonnie Langford as Mrs Bird
Jonathan Brown played by Joseph Bramley, Leo Collon, Stevie Hare, and Jasper Rowse.

While Paddington himself, as well as his bear design, remain under wraps, the creative team is expected to reveal more soon.

What the Story Promises

The plot is inspired by Michael Bond’s books and the 2014 film adaptation. It follows the familiar yet evergreen tale of a small bear arriving from Peru, finding refuge with the Brown family in London, while he tries to overcome the new challenges of finding a new home.

With hints of adventure and, of course, his insatiable love for marmalade sandwiches, the tone stays as sweet as Paddington himself.

Ticketing and Venue Tips

Tickets for the musical are already available for sale via the official Savoy Theatre or websites and go on priority sale from 13 May, followed by general sales on 15 May.
If you signed up for priority booking, you may have access to tickets before the general public.
Recommended ages are 6 and up (families with younger children encouraged to check age suitability).

A Premiere to Watch?

Under the guidance of a stellar creative team and supported by heavyweight producers, the musical is expected to be both a family-friendly delight and a meaningful theatrical event.

A musical performance of a nostalgic and well-loved film can be tricky at times. But with its world-class creative team, exciting narrative twists, and endearing themes at work, this is one West End event that promises to be as comforting as a marmalade sandwich and as touching as a little bear’s journey home.

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