British-Indian actor Arti Shah, who embodies Paddington Bear in the award-winning stage production 'Paddington: The Musical', believes the character's central message is one the world urgently needs.
Shah, who has earned widespread acclaim for her performance, says kindness is free and something we all have, and it's what the world needs right now.
The stage production, which recently extended its run through February 2028, has been deeply moving and heart-warming for audiences, with Shah feeling humbled to be involved in the wonderful cast.
Shah and co-actor James Hameed jointly won the prestigious Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical for their performances in the stage adaptation, based on the 2014 blockbuster film of the same name.
The pair bring Paddington Bear to life through facial puppetry at London's Savoy Theatre, with Shah donning the bear suit and Hameed behind the voice work.
Shah, a 49-year-old actor who has coped with bullying in the past, is also a distinguished motivational speaker and diversity and inclusion advocate.
She reflects on the values of compassion, acceptance, and respectfulness that Paddington takes on, and how it's essential to be kind and respectful, but also to be true to oneself.
