Studio Ghibli’s beloved 1988 animated film My Neighbor Totoro has come to life on the London stage in a limited offering through January 21, 2023. It joins the expansion of Ghibli’s world in the realms of theme parks and other stage adaptations of Hayao Miyazaki classics, and features the work of the film’s original composer Joe Hisaishi and a new script adaptation by playwright Tom Morton-Smith.
Click through for production images.
Original composer Joe Hisaishi, a longtime Miyazaki collaborator, has returned for this new adaptation presented by the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Much like the film, the play is described as an “enchanting coming-of-age story” that “explores the magical fantasy world of childhood and the transformative power of imagination, as it follows one extraordinary summer in the lives of sisters Satsuki and Mei.”
Their new home in the magical countryside becomes a place of wonder and discovery for the sisters.
It’s there where they deal with their worry for their mother, who is in a nearby convalescent home healing from an illness.
Through puppetry, creatures and animals come to life on stage.
Iconic moments are recreated.
And you get that Ghibli sense of humor.
Like, look at this goat. Already iconic.
It’s really amazing to see the animated worlds of Ghibli expand into other realms like theater.
We’re just wondering when it will tour.
Us in the back, looking at Europe and Japan getting Miyazaki plays and a theme park.
We can only wish that maybe there will be film screenings of this live production.
Or wish for a miracle to see Totoro on stage.
Get us to the Barbican by January 21, 2023, before it closes! For more information check out the official website.
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