Jim Henson’s Creature Shop to create ‘My Neighbour Totoro’ puppets
The Studio Ghibli film will be adapted for the stage.
The world-leading visual effects company, Jim Henson’s Creature Shop, will create the puppets, animatronics, and digital animation for My Neighbour Totoro. The world premiere of My Neighbour Totoro begins performances at the Barbican on 8 October, with an opening night on 18 October, and performances to 21 Jan. 2023. Book My Neighbour Totoro tickets on London Theatre.
The My Neighbour Totoro puppets are designed by Basil Twist at Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. Over the years, the workshop’s produced characters for television shows such as Sesame Street and The Muppet Show.
“The Jim Henson Company is synonymous with imagination and childhood,” commented Twist. “When I accepted this challenge and needed a team who could build my designs and bring Studio Ghibli’s treasured characters to life, I knew it had to be Henson. I truly believe we are creating something extraordinary.” Mervyn Millar will create additional puppets for My Neighbour Totoro.
My Neighbour Totoro follows two sisters, Satsuki and Mei. After moving to the countryside, the siblings explore their new surroundings and encounter magical creatures.
Hayao Miyazaki’s 1988 Studio Ghibli film will be adapted for the stage by Tom Morton-Smith, in collaboration with Improbable and Nippon TV. There’s original composition by Joe Hisaishi and direction by Phelim McDermott.
The show features production design by Tom Pye, costume design by Kimie Nakano, lighting by Jessica Hung Han Yun, sound design by Tony Gayle, and movement by You-Ri Yamanaka. Casting will be announced at a later date.
My Neighbour Totoro is at the Barbican.
Book My Neighbour Totoro tickets on London Theatre.
Photo credit: My Neighbour Totoro behind the scenes (Photo by Jay P. Morgan)
Frequently asked questions
What is My Neighbour Totoro about?
Don't miss the theatrical event of 2025, the record-breaking, award-winning My Neighbour Totoro is now playing in London's West End.
Where is My Neighbour Totoro playing?
My Neighbour Totoro is playing at Gillian Lynne Theatre. The theatre is located at 166 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5PW.
How long is My Neighbour Totoro?
The running time of My Neighbour Totoro is 2hr 30min. Incl. 1 interval.
How do you book tickets for My Neighbour Totoro?
Book tickets for My Neighbour Totoro on London Theatre.
What's the age requirement for My Neighbour Totoro?
The recommended age for My Neighbour Totoro is Ages 6+. Children under the age of 4 (including babes in arms) will not be admitted. Children need to occupy their own seat. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. All guests, regardless of age, must have a valid ticket..
Who wrote My Neighbour Totoro?
The play, which is written by Tom Morton-Smith, is based on the 1988 Studio Ghibli film of the same name.
Who directed My Neighbour Totoro?
The play is staged by Phelim McDermott, who earned an Olivier Award for his direction of the show at the Barbican.
Is My Neighbour Totoro appropriate for kids?
This imaginative play is best for children ages 6 and up, and those under the age of four will not be permitted in the theatre.
Is My Neighbour Totoro good?
My Neighbour Totoro is a fantastic, award-winning, and record-breaking show. With an imaginative and heartwarming story and exceptional puppetry, this performance is fun for the whole family. The show has also received numerous rave reviews, including London Theatre’s review, which reads, “Tom Morton-Smith’s adaptation strikes a perfect balance of honouring Hayao Miyazaki’s creation and seeking a new theatrical language, brilliantly realised in Phelim McDermott’s exquisite production.”
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