'My Neighbour Totoro' announces closing date in the West End
Adapted by Tom Morton-Smith from Hayao Miyazaki’s 1988 animated film, My Neighbour Totoro follows sisters Satsuki and Mei as they move to the countryside while their mother seeks treatment in hospital.
Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbour Totoro has announced its final extension in the West End. The show will continue until 10 January 2027 at the Gillian Lynne Theatre.
Adapted by Tom Morton-Smith (Oppenheimer) from Hayao Miyazaki’s 1988 animated film, My Neighbour Totoro follows sisters Satsuki and Mei as they move to the countryside while their mother seeks treatment in hospital. As the sisters explore their new surroundings, Mei encounters magical forest creatures and the big, cuddly "Totoro" – taking them on a memorable and exciting adventure.
The cast includes Victoria Chen as Mei, Helen Chong as Mei’s older sister Satsuki, Dai Tabuchi as Tatsuo, Jacqueline Tate as Granny, and Ai Ninomiya as Kaze No Koe/Singer.
The Kazego Puppetry Ensemble is made up of Karen Barredo, Melisa Camba, Rachel Clare Chan, Jeffrey Chekai, Chui Yen, Phyllis Ho (Yasuko), Victor Itang, Gabriel S. Janoras, Natsumi Kuroda (Tsukiko), Eero Chen Liu (Principal Puppeteer), Kumiko Mendl (Nurse Emiko), Yui Minari, Michelle Miners, Steven Nguyen (Kanta), Richard P. Peralta, Gun Suen (Principal Puppeteer/Puppetry Captain), Sango Tajima (Miss Hara/Principal Puppeteer), Bai Zhijin and Jamie Zubairi (Hiroshi). The swings include Ronnie Lee, Wenhsin Lee, Amber Lin, Sera Maehara and Si Rawlinson (Movement Captain).
The creative team includes production design by Tom Pye, puppetry design and direction by Basil Twist, costume design by Kimie Nakano, lighting design by Jessica Hung Han Yun, and movement by You-Ri Yamanaka.
The production features music from Joe Hisaishi’s score in a new orchestration by Will Stuart, performed live with sound design by Tony Gayle. Video design is by Finn Ross and Andrea Scott, the dramaturg is Pippa Hill, and sound effects and soundscape designer is Nicola T Chang.
Daniel Evans and Tamara Harvey, RSC Co-Artistic Directors said: “From its beginnings at the Barbican, My Neighbour Totoro has held a special place for us, and it is a privilege to have seen this production grow and flourish in the West End. A true celebration of theatrical craft, the show brings together extraordinary talent across disciplines, with its many awards reflecting the artistry, imagination and dedication of all involved.
"The production also represents a remarkable international collaboration, uniting artists and partners to tell a story of wonder, family and the natural world that resonates so deeply with audiences. We are immensely grateful to our creative team, cast, crew and partners, and to the many audiences who continue to join us on this journey.”
Book My Neighbour Totoro tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk
Photo credit: Victoria Chen in My Neighbour Totoro. (Courtesy of production)
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 recommendation 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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