Studio Ghibli film ‘My Neighbour Totoro’ to be presented on stage
The world premiere will open at the Barbican this autumn.
The Studio Ghibli film, My Neighbour Totoro, will be adapted for stage and open in London later this year. My Neighbour Totoro begins previews at the Barbican on 8 October, ahead of an opening night on 18 October and performances to 21 Jan. 2023. Book My Neighbour Totoro tickets on London Theatre.
Studio Ghibli is a Japanese animation film studio, with popular films including Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle and Ponyo. The 1988 film My Neighbour Totoro is the studio’s most successful film, grossing over $40 million at the box office.
The My Neighbour Totoro play will follow a similar storyline to the film. The coming-of-age story follows sisters Satsuki and Mei as they interact with magical creatures and an ancient forest protector. Tom Morton-Smith adapts My Neighbour Totoro on stage, based on Hayao Miyazaki’s feature animation.
“In Japan, many people are passionate about theatre and musicals, but there are no original Japanese shows or musicals performed in the world” said executive producer and My Neighbour Totoro composer Joe Hisaishi. “Totoro” is a Japanese work famous throughout the world, and so this stage adaptation could have the potential to reach global audiences.”
My Neighbour Totoro is a collaboration between the Royal Shakespeare Company, Improbable and Nippon TV.
“It is a great honour to be working with the iconic Studio Ghibli and such a wonderfully talented and globally renowned creative team. Adapting this deeply loved magical story for the stage is the next chapter in our longstanding commitment to making spectacular and accessible productions that see the world through the eyes of children” said RSC acting artistic director Erica Whyman.
Phelim McDermott directs My Neighbour Totoro. The production features design by Tom Pye, costume design by Kimie Nakano, lighting design by Jessica Hung Han Yun, soudnd design by Tony Gayle and movement by You-Ri Yamanaka. The production will feature puppetry created by Basil Twist and music from Joe Hisaishi’s iconic score in a new orchestration by Will Stuart.
What is My Neighbour Totoro?
My Neighbour Totoro is a Studio Ghibli film. My Neighbour Totoro follows two young sisters, Satsuki and Mei, as they relocate to the countryside and discover forest spirits in their new neighbourhood. Together, the pair explore a new world that's on their doorstep. The My Neighbour Totoro film was released in 1988.
My Neighbour Totoro is at the Barbican.
Book My Neighbour Totoro tickets on London Theatre.
Photo credit: My Neighbour Totoro still (Photo courtesy of Studio Ghibli)
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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