Paddington The Musical has achieved a major chart milestone, with its original cast recording becoming the fastest-selling physical West End album of the 21st century.
Released by Decca Records, the album has also landed at number one on the Official UK Compilation Chart, less than six months after the show opened in the West End.
Available on vinyl, CD, cassette and Yoto, the recording features music and lyrics by Tom Fletcher, with production by Matt Brind.
It marks a rare achievement, with few original stage musical recordings reaching such commercial success so quickly since the 1990s.
President of Decca Records Laura Monks said, “From the moment we heard these songs… these incredible earworms… these EPIC musical joy bringers… we knew they were destined to be instant hits. Tom and the team have created music that will delight listeners across the globe for generations to come.”
Producers Sonia Friedman and Eliza Lumley added, “What an absolutely joyful way to launch the album with a No 1 slot and becoming the fastest selling physical West End Original Cast Recording of the 21st Century. It’s testament to the songwriting genius of Tom Fletcher and our Musical Supervisor Matt Brind, as well as the brilliance of our amazing cast and musicians. We’re thrilled that everyone loves the album as much as we do.”
The musical, currently playing at the Savoy Theatre, is based on Michael Bond’s beloved book A Bear Called Paddington and the STUDIOCANAL film adaptation.
The production has already received widespread critical acclaim, as well as multiple industry awards including Olivier Awards, WhatsOnStage Awards and the Critics’ Circle Award for Best New Musical.
Recent publicity moments have included Paddington appearing on the famous Abbey Road zebra crossing and featuring on the cover of Rolling Stone UK.
Due to popular demand, the production has been extended through to 13 February 2028.
The cast recording can be found here.
