Shows similar to Paddington The Musical
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[*Paddington the Musical*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/paddington-the-musical-tickets) the [Savoy Theatre](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/venue/savoy-theatre-london) has taken London by storm! The iconic London bear has swept away audiences and critics with its catchy tunes, heartwarming story, and unbearlivably cute puppetry. It may be one of [London’s newest musicals](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/new-shows), but it’s firmly becoming one of the top family theatre shows in London. Not only that, as Paddington is such an icon of the capital city, the show has become a tourist attraction!
There’s so much to love about this Olivier Award-winning musical that you’re probably looking for shows similar to [*Paddington The Musical*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/paddington-the-musical-tickets) to keep that good vibe rolling. So here are some of the best family-friendly theatre currently on in London.
## **What musical is most like Paddington The Musical?**
For its British whimsy, nostalgia, and charming story, *[Matilda](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/matilda-the-musical-tickets)* is probably the musical most like Paddington.
Just like Paddington, *Matilda* is the stage adaptation of a beloved children’s book that has become part of British History.
*Matilda* is about a young girl who is the ideal child for most parents… but not hers. She loves reading, learning, and doing good. They love watching TV and tricking people. And school isn’t much better. With a tyrannical head teacher, Miss Trunchball, Matilda’s only safe space is the library. That is until she develops magical powers. With her new abilities, Matilda stands up to the ghastly grown-ups and finds a new family where she’s welcomed with open arms.
With themes of found family and triumph over adversity, [*Matilda*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/matilda-the-musical-tickets) at the [Cambridge Theatre](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/venue/cambridge-theatre-london) is definitely one of the musicals like Paddington available to see in London right now.
## **What should I watch if I loved Paddington the Musical?**
In addition to *Matilda*, *The Lion King*, *My Neighbour Totoro*, *Billy Elliot* and *Hercules* are all family friendly shows you should watch if you loved *Paddington the Musical*.
When it opened in 1999, [*The Lion King*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/the-lion-king-tickets) wowed audiences thanks to the intricate and varied puppets used on stage. From birds to elephants, the craftsmanship and performances required to bring these wild animals to life on stage were unlike anything seen before. To this day, children and adults can’t help but gape at the impressive beasts on stage.
Just like Paddington, [*My Neighbour Totoro*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/play/my-neighbour-totoro-tickets) at the [Gillian Lynne Theatre](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/venue/gillian-lynne-theatre-london) features a wondrous creature that befriends a family. Set in rural Japan, we meet two young girls who are struggling to settle in their new home. With their mum in hospital and their dad juggling work and family life, the pair explore their surroundings and stumble upon Totoro - a friendly forest sprite. Totoro and other magical creatures are brought to life in this multi-award-winning show thanks to puppets of all shapes, sizes, and materials. It’s truly a wonder to behold.
For grand, impressive puppets, with a little stage magic thrown in for good measure, [*Hercules*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/hercules-tickets) at [Theatre Royal Drury Lane](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/venue/theatre-royal-drury-lane-london) is the one. The stage-adaptation of the Disney classic features larger-than-life puppets of the monsters Hercules must face while he’s trying to prove himself worthy of his place in Mount Olympus. Full of beloved songs and impressive visuals, you’ll regret not catching it before it exits the West End in September.
If you liked *Paddington the Musical* for its distinct Britishness, another show to see is [*Billy Elliot*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/billy-elliot-tickets). Making its grand return to London at the [Adelphi Theatre](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/venue/adelphi-theatre-london), the beloved musical follows one boy pursuing his passion for dance despite living in a traditional mining town. It’s heartwarming, inspiring, and beautiful.
### **What is the best musical to see after Paddington the Musical?**
Based on its similarities and their comparable accolades, *Matilda* is probably the best musical to see after Paddington. However, there are so many incredible family musicals in the West End that you can’t go wrong with any of them.
### **Is Paddington suitable for children?**
Yes! The family show is recommended for children aged 6+