Paddington is heading to Broadway in spring 2027, with “Paddington: The Musical” set to open at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre in New York after “Moulin Rouge” ends its run. The production will begin previews on March 30, 2027, before opening night on April 18, 2027. Posters teasing the transfer have already appeared around the theater district, asking, “Have you seen this bear?”
Based on the beloved children’s books by British author Michael Bond, the musical follows Paddington, a small bear from Peru who travels to London in search of a home. The story centers on his chance meeting with the Brown family and the adventures that follow as kindness, community and belonging become central themes. According to the show’s logline, Paddington and the Browns are drawn into a rescue mission after a mysterious villain targets the bear, forcing the family to realize how much they need him too.
The musical features music and lyrics by Tom Fletcher, a book by Jessica Swale and direction by Luke Sheppard. It first premiered in London’s West End, where it won seven Olivier Awards, including best musical. Critics praised the production for its charm and emotional appeal, with one review calling it “furry, funny and fully-formed” and highlighting its “completely beguiling charm.”
Fletcher said it was a privilege to bring New York audiences into Paddington’s world of curiosity. Swale joked about whether the bear would enjoy “Big Apples” as much as oranges, while Sheppard said Broadway would be an adventure for a character who approaches life with curiosity, kindness and a strong sense of discovery.
Producers Sonia Friedman and Eliza Lumley described the musical as a joyful theatrical adventure about finding home, family and community in unexpected places. They said Paddington has lasted across generations because he represents kindness, empathy, curiosity and the idea that everyone deserves to belong.
StudioCanal, which owns the Paddington intellectual property, co-produced the stage musical. Anna Marsh, chief executive of StudioCanal and chief content officer of Canal+, praised the creative team and said the company has spent more than a decade carefully honoring Michael Bond’s legacy through films and series. She said Broadway audiences will soon be able to experience the heart, humor, wonder and magic of Paddington in a new live production.
The Broadway debut marks a major new chapter for one of Britain’s most enduring children’s characters, bringing the marmalade-loving bear from books, film and television to New York’s theater district.
