A Magical Addition to the West End
The question of whether a bear is an endangered species is posed with a mix of curiosity and mischief by Tarinn Callender, who plays a hapless helper in the West End production of “Paddington.” The response from Victoria Hamilton-Barritt’s character, Millicent Price, is both chilling and delightfully malicious: “It is now.” While Price may be correct about the bear’s fate in her twisted narrative, she couldn’t be more wrong about the show itself. “Paddington” is a vibrant, charming, and fully realized musical that has finally made its way to the West End, bringing with it a rare blend of joy and theatrical magic.
Adapting beloved stories for the stage can be a high-stakes endeavor. Some productions become long-running hits, while others struggle to find their footing. However, the success of the film adaptations of Michael Bond’s “A Bear Called Paddington” gave hope to the producers of the stage version. These films were not only well-received but also achieved impressive box office numbers, which set a high bar for the stage adaptation.
After years of development and multiple workshops, the production managed to avoid feeling like a cynical cash grab. From the very first moments, set in a cozy cabinet of curiosities shop, the show exudes precision and charm. The design and cast work seamlessly together, creating a world that feels authentic and immersive.
One of the biggest questions surrounding the show was how they would bring the bear to life on stage. The answer is both clever and effective. Arti Shah plays Paddington inside a furry costume, while James Hameed provides the voice and songs. This approach, similar to the human-operated puppet in “War Horse,” allows the audience to engage with the character in a unique and imaginative way. The bear’s expressive face and movements add to the overall charm, making the character feel alive and relatable.
Once the challenge of portraying Paddington was solved, the focus turned to whether the material could succeed as a piece of theatrical storytelling and a musical. The opening number, “I’ve Arrived,” sets a lively and upbeat tone, aided by Ellen Kane’s energetic choreography. The setting, a London train station, is rendered with atmospheric detail, adding to the immersive experience.
Tom Fletcher, known for his work with the band McFly, composed the music and lyrics for the show. His work blends humor and heart, with comedy numbers that are witty and engaging. The cast brings the songs to life, ensuring that the sentiment never becomes overly sentimental. The show’s balance of humor and heart makes it a refreshing addition to the musical landscape.
The second act features a standout moment: a silly comedy waltz that turns into a riotous and infectious number centered around Paddington’s favorite food, marmalade. The audience is even encouraged to join in, creating a memorable and interactive experience. The production team, including Tom Edden and Gabriella Slade, delivers a visually stunning performance that highlights the creativity and imagination behind the show.
The book by Jessica Swale allows each character to shine, with strong performances from Adrian Der Gregorian and Amy Ellen Richardson. Their portrayals add depth and sincerity to the story, making the characters more relatable and engaging.
Victoria Hamilton-Barritt delivers a standout performance as Millicent Price, bringing a range of emotions and comedic timing to the role. Her portrayal is both menacing and entertaining, making her a compelling villain. Meanwhile, Amy Booth-Steel steals the show with her versatility, bringing humor and energy to a variety of minor roles.
Author Michael Bond created a character with a label that read, “Please look after this bear.” It seems safe to say that the West End audience will take great care of “Paddington” for a long time to come. The show is a testament to the power of storytelling and the magic of theater, offering a delightful experience for audiences of all ages.
