Tom Fletcher, the driving force behind McFly’s enduring melodies, has crafted something truly remarkable: the music and lyrics for the new Paddington musical. But the emotional impact of his work wasn’t initially measured by audience applause, but by the tears of his closest collaborators.
The West End premiere of “Paddington: The Musical” arrived on Saturday, a vibrant stage adaptation of Michael Bond’s beloved stories and the charming films. Early reviews have been overwhelmingly positive, with particular acclaim directed towards the ingenious puppetry that brings Paddington to life.
Fletcher revealed that even before the grand opening, his McFly bandmates, Dougie Poynter and Harry Judd, were deeply moved. They attended an early workshop specifically to test their emotional response – and both succumbed to tears while listening to the songs.
“Honestly, McFly have been incredibly supportive of all our individual projects,” Fletcher shared. “But I think they recognize how special this one is, and they’re genuinely excited to experience it with their children.”
The creation of the musical wasn’t a solitary endeavor for Fletcher. He drew inspiration and feedback from the most important people in his life: his wife, Giovanna, his sister, Carrie Hope Fletcher, and his own children.
His sister, a celebrated West End performer herself, and his wife, a celebrated author and television personality, provided invaluable insight. Even his young sons contributed, becoming enthusiastic demo vocalists, hearing the songs countless times during their development.
Fletcher’s experience extends beyond music; he’s also a published author of children’s stories. This background undoubtedly informed his ability to capture the heart and spirit of Paddington Bear.
Currently, Fletcher is navigating the demanding schedule of balancing the musical’s run at the Savoy Theatre with McFly’s ongoing tour alongside Busted. It’s a whirlwind of rehearsals and performances, leaving little time for rest.
He confessed to a hectic pace, moving seamlessly between “Paddington” rehearsals and preparations for the “McFly vs Busted” tour. The demands are so intense that he even had to miss the first preview performance of “Paddington” due to a McFly concert at the O2 Arena.
Despite the challenges, Fletcher’s dedication to both projects is unwavering, fueled by a passion for storytelling and a desire to share the magic of Paddington with audiences of all ages.
