With a beloved collection of books by Michael Bond, and a couple of films to his name, you’d forgive Paddington for playing it safe from here on out. But as we know, the blue-coated Peruvian bear isn’t wired that way, and will be hitting the stage in the UK soon enough.
Come 2025, everyone’s favourite cartoon bear will be appearing in a musical adaptation that draws from both the original stories and the films starring Paddington. It is also due to come hot on the heels of the third instalment in the film franchise, Paddington In Peru, which will hit cinemas next year.
What can we expect from Paddington on stage?
Information, so far, is a little limited, with only 2025 listed for the release date, and no locations released just now. We do know that it will be hitting the stage in the UK, and that hopefully means that multiple cities will get a slice spoon of the action honey.
Tom Fletcher from McFly, whose ‘other’ job just so happens to be writing stories for children, is on board for the project, and he’s set to conjure up the music and lyrics for the beloved bear’s stage debut. I for one am looking forward to seeing whether Paddington serenades a jar of honey to the tune of All About You.
Casting details are yet to be confirmed, but Sonia Freidman and Eliza Lumley’s companies are the producers behind the stage show, and have said that it is a “privilege to be creating a new musical about this gorgeous and beloved little bear”.
A book for the stage musical is also to be written by Jessica Swale, with direction by Luke Sheppard. The original books by Michael Bond have sold over 35 million copies across the world since the first was published in 1958.
A joint statement by Freidman and Lumley said: “The magic of Paddington is that, through his wide-eyed innocence, he sees the very best in humanity, reminding us that love and kindness can triumph if we open our hearts and minds to one another.
“We cannot wait to bring Paddington, his antics, adventures and mishaps with the Brown family, and Michael Bond’s other treasured characters to the stage.”
Keep an eye on our page for upcoming details on casting, locations, and run dates.