The stage adaptation of Hayao Miyazaki’s iconic animated film My Neighbour Totoro has officially begun its unlimited long-run in London’s prestigious West End as of March 20 (local time). Accompanied by newly released stage photos, the show is now selling tickets through March 2026.

Originally conceived by legendary composer Joe Hisaishi, who also created the original film score, the production is a collaboration between Nippon TV and the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). Following a critically acclaimed debut at London’s Barbican Theatre in October 2022 and a successful second run from November 2023 to March 2024, the play captivated audiences with its faithful direction and immersive music, selling out every show and drawing in 290,000 attendees.

In 2023, the play earned six Laurence Olivier Awards, including Best Director, making it a historic success in British theatre.

A New Home at the Gillian Lynne Theatre

The show now finds its long-term home at the Gillian Lynne Theatre, famously linked to Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats. The decision was made after Lloyd Webber himself attended and praised the production. The theatre's unique wide stage allows iconic characters like the Catbus to roam freely, adding dynamic motion to the performance.

Director Phelim McDermott reflected, “Forty-four years ago, I saw Cats as a student in this very theatre and was blown away. To now bring this beautiful story, based on a Studio Ghibli masterpiece, to the same stage is an honor. I hope this work continues to be cherished for years to come.”

Global Collaboration and Cultural Milestone

Producer Kenichi Yoda of Nippon TV and a board member of Studio Ghibli expressed his excitement: “It’s an incredible journey for a story born in Japan to find a long-term home at a venue so fitting in London. We’re deeply grateful for Joe Hisaishi’s vision in leading this project.”

On opening night, high-profile guests including Andrew Lloyd Webber and The Greatest Showman singer Keala Settle attended and gave the performance a standing ovation. The play’s new chapter as a long-running production marks a significant cultural milestone for Japanese storytelling on the global stage.

A Message from the Creators

Producer Toshio Suzuki of Studio Ghibli shared, “If people think of Totoro when they think of London, that would make me very happy.”

The RSC’s co-artistic directors Daniel Evans and Tamara Harvey added: “We’re thrilled to welcome audiences to this magical story of kindness, courage, and imagination in its new home.”

My Neighbour Totoro West End Trailer

Source : ORICON NEWS