Ensemble member learns leading Paddington role in four hours, saves Savoy show

Rose O'Reilly, a Paddington The Musical ensemble member and not a designated cover, learned the lead role of Millicent Clyde in four hours and performed it off-book before 1,100 people at the Savoy Theatre. All three official covers were unavailable; Victoria Hamilton-Barritt, who plays Clyde, was abroad. Producer Sonia Friedman recognised O'Reilly from the stage before the performance.