Tom Fletcher has expressed his hope that the Prince and Princess of Wales will bring Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis to see his new musical adaptation of Paddington, which has officially opened in London’s West End. The McFly musician, who wrote the show’s music and lyrics, extended the invitation after the royal couple met the production’s Paddington Bear at the Royal Variety Performance. Following the world premiere at the Savoy Theatre, Fletcher said the Wales family felt their children would “really enjoy it”, raising the possibility of a future royal appearance.
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The opening night, which followed a month of previews, received a standing ovation from an audience filled with well-known figures including David Tennant, Dame Joan Collins, Cush Jumbo and Jamie Dornan. Fletcher, attending the performance with his wife Giovanna, described the project as a “labour of love”, reflecting on his lifelong passion for musical theatre. He explained that being entrusted with honouring Michael Bond’s beloved story had been deeply meaningful, especially as both he and Giovanna grew up immersed in theatre.
Fletcher also highlighted how the show’s themes have gained new relevance over the five years it has been in development. Themes of kindness, inclusivity and welcoming newcomers have naturally moved to the forefront of the narrative, he said. One of the final lines he wrote—“kindness isn’t ever complicated”—encapsulates what he believes the production aims to convey. He added that Paddington’s enduring message of kindness feels especially significant in the current climate.
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The musical draws inspiration from A Bear Called Paddington and the 2014 film Paddington, featuring a cast that includes Amy Ellen Richardson, Adrian Der Gregorian, Brenda Edwards and Bonnie Langford, with James Hameed voicing the bear off stage and Arti Shah performing the role on stage. Giovanna Fletcher shared her excitement at bringing their three sons to see the finished show, noting that they have followed its development closely. Paddington The Musical is now booking at the Savoy Theatre.
