Meet Paddington the Bear, the West End’s newest star.

As previews begin in London, “ Paddington the Musical ” has revealed a short teaser and first-look images showing a glimpse at how the iconic bear will come to life on stage. The life-like puppet is played by two people: James Hameed, who is an off-stage remote puppeteer, and Arti Shah, an on-stage performer. To know exactly how the bear works, “Paddington” fans will have to go to the show and see it for themselves.

The team behind the bear includes Tahra Zafar, Paddington Bear designer; Audrey Brisson, bear physicality associate director; Phill Woodfine, remote puppetry coach; and Annabelle Davis, Paddington Bear casting director. Alternate Paddington on-stage performers are Abbie Purvis and Ali Sarebani.

“After many years of ex

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