Arti Shah, who physically portrays Paddington Bear in the stage production Paddington: The Musical, says the character’s message of kindness is especially important in today’s world.
In an interview, Shah said people are surrounded by negativity and challenges, but kindness remains something everyone can freely offer.
She described Paddington as a symbol of compassion, respect and hope.
The musical, staged at Savoy Theatre in London’s West End, has received widespread praise from audiences and critics and recently extended its run until February 2028.
Shah said seeing audiences leave the theatre smiling has been deeply rewarding, adding that she feels humbled to help bring joy and optimism to people through the production.
Shah performs inside the Paddington bear costume, while co-actor James Hameed provides the character’s voice.
Together, they use facial puppetry and coordinated performance techniques to bring the beloved bear to life on stage.
Last month, the duo jointly won the prestigious Laurence Olivier Awards for Best Actor in a Musical for their performances in the adaptation based on the 2014 hit film Paddington.
The character was originally created by children’s author Michael Bond.
Shah described the experience of playing Paddington as “unreal” and said the character’s personality deeply resonates with her.
She noted that while Paddington is gentle and respectful, he also stands up for himself when necessary with his famous “hard stare”.
Shah explained that she uses method acting and her own life experiences to express Paddington’s emotions during performances.
Preparing for the physically demanding role required special training.
Ahead of rehearsals, Shah regularly visited saunas while fully clothed to adapt to performing in the heavy costume under hot stage conditions.
She also carefully manages her diet and body temperature before shows to maintain stamina through multiple performances each week.
Beyond acting, Shah is also known as a motivational speaker and advocate for diversity and inclusion.
Standing four feet tall, she revealed she had experienced bullying in the past but has since become an inspiration for many.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, she said opportunities for diverse performers have increased in the entertainment industry.
Born in Northampton to parents of Indian heritage who migrated to Britain via Kenya, Shah said she personally connects with Paddington’s story of searching for belonging.
She believes the character’s values of acceptance, compassion and staying true to oneself continue to resonate strongly with audiences worldwide.
The musical, featuring music and lyrics by Tom Fletcher, is expected to tour internationally, including a planned run on Broadway in New York. (PTI)
