Paddington the Musical will make its Australian debut at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre in September 2027, following a record-breaking run in London’s West End.

The production, announced by producers Sonia Friedman Productions, STUDIOCANAL, Eliza Lumley Productions and Suzanne Jones, won seven Olivier Awards in 2026, tying the record for the most wins by a musical in the awards’ history. Its honours included Best New Musical and Best Director for Luke Sheppard.

Paddington. Photo © Isha Shah

Based on Michael Bond’s A Bear Called Paddington and the STUDIOCANAL films, the musical features music and lyrics by Tom Fletcher, a book by Jessica Swale and direction by Sheppard. Casting for the Sydney production is yet to be announced.

The show opened at London’s Savoy Theatre in November 2025 and is currently booking until February 2028. A Broadway production is scheduled to open at New York’s Al Hirschfeld Theatre on 17 April 2027, making Sydney the third major theatre district to host the musical.

Australian producer Suzanne Jones said she was proud Sydney would be the first city in Australia to present the production, describing it as a musical combining spectacle with “character, humour and heart”.

UK producers Friedman and Lumley said Paddington’s search for a home, and his discovery of kindness and belonging, would resonate with Australian audiences.

NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said the production would attract visitors from across Australia and overseas, supporting Sydney’s hospitality and tourism businesses. The Australian premiere is supported by the NSW Government through Destination NSW.

Paddington’s stage success has extended to its original cast recording, released by Decca Records, which became the UK’s fastest-selling physical West End original cast recording of the 21st century.

A waitlist is available at paddingtonthemusical.com.au.