One of the world's famous bears will be making his stage debut in London in a brand new musical featuring music by McFly singer Tom Fletcher.
Paddington the Musical artwork.
Pack your marmalade sandwich - Paddington The Musical is heading to the West End.
Adapted from the beloved books by Michael Bond, the story of the iconic bear has appeared in TV episodes and three award-wining StudioCanal films (with Ben Whishaw voicing him), the latest being Paddington in Peru, released last year. Paddington The Musical will follow the bear's journey from Peru to London in search of somewhere to call home. The new musical is set to feature a number of original characters alongside familiar favourites, making it the ultimate west end show for families.
Paddington The Musical features a book by Jessica Swale (Nell Gwynn, Summerland), music and lyrics by Tom Fletcher (The Creakers) and directed by Luke Sheppard (Just For One Day). Further creatives and the cast are to be announced.
Director Luke Sheppard explains about this exciting new addition to the West End: “Discovering how to bring Paddington’s story to the stage continues to be an enormous privilege – with Jessica Swale and Tom Fletcher, 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. This is Paddington as you’ve never seen him before, bought to life by a team celebrating all of the magic and wonder of live theatre. Alongside our producers Sonia Friedman and Eliza Lumley, who look after this bear with the greatest care, we’ve been dreaming up big things for Paddington and can’t wait to welcome him to this iconic venue later this year.”
Composer Tom Fletcher said: “It’s an honour to be entrusted to bring the story of Paddington to life on stage with the very best of creative collaborators in Jessica, Luke, and our producers Sonia and Eliza. This unique and special bear is at the very heart of our nation, and I’m aware of the awesome responsibility we all have in taking on his story. It’s beyond exciting, and an absolute dream come true – we look forward to welcoming you to join us at the Savoy this Autumn.”
The new musical will play at the Savoy Theatre from 1 November, following on from the limited run of Burlesque The Musical.
