‘Utterly winning’: Paddington becomes first new West End musical to land nine WhatsOnStage awards
Why it matters: Fan‑voted awards reveal a West End pivot toward tech‑rich, family‑friendly spectacles and fresh storytelling.
- Paddington sets a record with nine awards, lauded by The Guardian’s Arifa Akbar as “the new Mary Poppins” for its state‑of‑the‑art animatronics and marvellous songs.
- Evita (new interpretation) secures five honors, including best performer for Rachel Zegler, whose off‑stage balcony rendition of “Don’t Cry For Me Argentina” drew street‑level buzz.
- Richard II at the Bridge Theatre wins two straight‑play awards, signaling a resurgence of classic drama alongside musical dominance.
- Les Misérables clinches best West End show on its 40th anniversary, reinforcing the staying power of long‑running staples.
- The Comedy About Spies captures best new play, reflecting audience appetite for fresh, witty productions.
- Best child performance category is introduced, awarded to the ensemble portraying Young Thomas in The Land of the Living at the National Theatre.
Paddington has become the first new West End musical to sweep nine fan‑voted WhatsOnStage awards, joining the ranks of Harry Potter and Miss Saigon, while critics praise its cutting‑edge animatronics and catchy songs. The ceremony also highlighted a mix of big‑budget revivals, fresh comedies, and a new child‑performance category, underscoring the West End’s blend of spectacle and innovation.
