Bear essential...

From darkest Peru to the West End, Paddington musical is a triumph

- STEFAN KYRIAZIS

IN a London theatre year filled with Hollywood A-listers from Cate Blanchett to Susan Sarandon, the greatest star of all is home grown - sort of...via deepest, darkest Peru.

After selling more than 35 million books and starring in three hit movies, Michael Bond’s beloved bear Paddington finally has his own West End show, with impossibly catchy, anthemic music and lyrics by McFly star Tom Fletcher.

The story follows Paddington’s arrival and his adventures with his adoptive family the Browns.

The lavish production values, huge wraparound screens, choreography and cast are all terrific.