On behalf of Universal Music U.K., Sonia Friedman Productions, Studiocanal, and Eliza Lumley Productions are currently developing "Paddington: The Musical" (working title). The renowned novels by Michael Bond and the multi-award-winning film series from Studiocanal and Heyday Films are the inspirations for the musical.
Swati Bhat
The script for McFly is written by Olivier Award-winning writer Jessica Swale ("Nell Gwynn," "Blue Stockings"), while Tom Fletcher, the character of McFly, is writing the music and lyrics. The director of the film will be Luke Sheppard ("& Juliet," "The Little Big Things"). The show is scheduled to premiere in the United Kingdom in 2025, and workshops are presently underway.
In a statement, Friedman and Lumley said, "It is a privilege to be creating a new musical about this gorgeous and beloved little bear with such a wonderful team." "The wonder of Paddington lies in his ability to see the best in people via his innocent, wide-eyed eyes, which serves as a constant reminder that kindness and love may win out if we allow them to win over each other's hearts and minds. We are very excited to introduce Michael Bond's other beloved characters, including Paddington and his antics, adventures, and misadventures with the Brown family, to the stage. We want to use fun, beauty, joy, and everything that Paddington stands for to inspire audiences of all ages.
"We could not be more delighted to see our beloved Paddington take to the stage shepherded by a talented and visionary team in Sonia and Eliza," continued Ann Marsh, CEO of Studiocanal. They have given of themselves to demonstrate a profound appreciation and love for Paddington, which will undoubtedly translate onto the stage and guarantee that his adventures—which were conceived more than 60 years ago by Michael Bond—continue to enchant audiences in such a fresh and inventive manner.