Paddington musical dominates Olivier Awards
Paddington musical dominates Olivier Awards
Seven major wins for the beloved bear story
In its 50th anniversary year, the stage musical adaptation of the Paddington books and films emerged as a standout, securing seven accolades at the Olivier Awards. The production, which features songs by McFly’s Tom Fletcher, triumphed in categories ranging from best new musical to acting, direction, set design, and costume awards.
“It was such an honour to be entrusted with such a unique bear,” said Jessica Swale, the show’s writer, while accepting the best new musical award. She highlighted the importance of the role, emphasizing the emotional impact of the story. Tom Fletcher, meanwhile, described the cast as “a family,” adding, “We tried to make a show that is all about celebrating kindness, and to be part of this group of people that is putting that out into the world at this time feels so special, thank you so much.”
The acting honors included best actor in a musical, which was jointly awarded to James Hameed, the voice of Paddington from the wings, and Arti Shah, who portrays the bear in costume. Shah’s win was particularly notable, as she expressed gratitude to her family, promising to “keep making you proud, and keep showing you that being different is a good thing.”
Rachel Zegler shines in Evita reimagining
Rachel Zegler also stood out, claiming two awards for her role in a fresh take on Evita. The US actress, who previously earned a Golden Globe for reinterpreting Maria in West Side Story, brought a contemporary flair to the character. In her acceptance speech, she remarked: “Thank you so much to the city of London for making me feel so welcome here, I never could’ve imagined it.”
“It was the honour of a lifetime singing to the people on Argyll Street eight times a week,” Zegler said, recalling her unique performance. She performed “Don’t Cry For Me Argentina” from the London Palladium’s outdoor balcony, captivating passers-by and streaming live to the theatre audience. “It’s so beautiful that Jamie Lloyd made such an accessible moment of theatre for people to walk by and witness something really really cool,” she added.
Inter Alia and All My Sons mark other triumphs
Rosamund Pike took home best actress in a play for her performance in legal drama Inter Alia, overcoming competition from Cate Blanchett and Marianne Jean-Baptiste. “I can’t believe it,” Pike said, reflecting on her return to stage after 14 years. “It was a huge, exhilarating risk to come back, and being invited by the National Theatre to do this special play is incredible.”
A new production of Arthur Miller’s All My Sons also celebrated success, earning two awards including best supporting actor for Paapa Essiedu. Essiedu, who had not attended theatre regularly as a child, credited a youth program by Frantic Assembly for opening his path to the stage. “My creativity was still nurtured and valued, even without the vocabulary or experience,” he noted. He urged continued support for such initiatives, stressing their importance for future talent.
Two plays win significant recognition
James Graham’s play *Punch*, recounting a 2011 incident involving a trainee paramedic, captured two awards, including best supporting actress for Julie Hesmondhalgh. Meanwhile, Kenrex, a one-man play exploring the 1981 murder of Ken Rex McElroy in 1980s America, secured two honors, including best musical revival. Jack Holden, the play’s lead, defeated heavyweights like Bryan Cranston and Tom Hiddleston to win best actor in a play.
“Most people watching this at home won’t know who I am, which is quite funny,” Holden joked, acknowledging the challenge of being recognized. “Being in that esteemed company of nominees is crazy to me, but to have this is even crazier.” He praised the theatre ecosystem, highlighting the dedication of unseen contributors.
Scroll down to view the complete list of winners. The evening underscored the diversity and creativity of British theatre, with standout moments from both established and emerging talents.
