Paddington the Musical wins nine WhatsOnStage Awards

Paddington the Musical was the big winner at the 26th Annual WhatsOnStage Awards.

The new musical is currently enjoying its world premiere at the Savoy Theatre, where it was a zesty five-star hit.

Back when nominations were announced, the marmalade-loving bear led the way with 14 nominations – going up to 15 once you add in the nomination for Best Child Performance – breaking a record previously held by & Juliet.

At the annual awards ceremony, held tonight, 8 March, at The London Palladium, nominees and guests enjoyed an appearance from the bear himself, as well as a performance of “Explorer and the Bear” by James Hameed, Arti Shah and composer himself Tom Fletcher.

There were no hard stares on the big night as the musical went on to win nine trophies. It triumphed in the technical creative categories with director Luke Sheppard, set designer Tom Pye, sound designer Gareth Owen, costume designers Gabriella Slade (costume design) and Tahra Zafar (Paddington design), wigs, hair and make-up designer Campbell Young Associates, casting directors Natalie Gallacher, for Pippa Ailion and Natalie Gallacher Casting, Nick Hockaday and Annabelle Davis, and musical supervisor Matt Brind winning.

Voters also gave a big bear hug welcome to newcomer, Timi Akinyosade, who plays Tony, in his Professional Debut. The new musical, by Fletcher and Jessica Swale, left with full hands, including the coveted Best New Musical prize.