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Paddington the Musical Premieres in London with Innovative Puppetry
1 Nov
Summary
- "Paddington the Musical" in previews in London
- Iconic bear brought to life by two-person puppet team
- Production features collaboration of designers and puppetry experts
As of November 1, 2025, "Paddington the Musical" has begun previews in London, giving audiences a first look at how the beloved children's character will come to life on the stage. The production features a life-like puppet of Paddington Bear, operated by a two-person team: James Hameed, an off-stage remote puppeteer, and Arti Shah, an on-stage performer.
The creative team behind the bear's theatrical adaptation includes Tahra Zafar, the Paddington Bear designer, as well as Audrey Brisson, the bear physicality associate director, Phill Woodfine, the remote puppetry coach, and Annabelle Davis, the Paddington Bear casting director. Alternate on-stage performers are Abbie Purvis and Ali Sarebani.
Producers Sonia Friedman and Eliza Lumley expressed their excitement about finally bringing Paddington to the stage, stating that it took an "extraordinary team" to share the "very special bear with the world" through this unique theatrical production.
