Studio Ghibli’s beloved 1988 animated film My Neighbour 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.
My Neighbour Totoro
Original composer Joe Hisaishi, a longtime Miyazaki collaborator, has returned for this new adaptation presented by the Royal Shakespeare Company.
My Neighbour Totoro
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.”
My Neighbour Totoro
Their new home in the magical countryside becomes a place of wonder and discovery for the sisters.
My Neighbour Totoro
It’s there where they deal with their worry for their mother, who is in a nearby convalescent home healing from an illness.
My Neighbour Totoro
Through puppetry, creatures and animals come to life on stage.
My Neighbour Totoro
Iconic moments are recreated.
My Neighbour Totoro
And you get that Ghibli sense of humour.
My Neighbour Totoro
Like, look at this goat. Already iconic.
My Neighbour Totoro
It’s really amazing to see the animated worlds of Ghibli expand into other realms like theatre.
My Neighbour Totoro
We’re just wondering when it will tour.
My Neighbour Totoro
Us in the back, looking at Europe and Japan getting Miyazaki plays and a theme park.
My Neighbour Totoro
We can only wish that maybe there will be film screenings of this live production.
My Neighbour Totoro
Or wish for a miracle to see Totoro on stage.
My Neighbour Totoro
Get us to the Barbican by January 21, 2023, before it closes! For more information check out the official website.
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