In 2021, two decades after Studio Ghibli released Hayao Miyazaki’s Oscar-winning anime ‘Spirited Away’, a stage adaptation for the film was announced. Under the direction and adaptation of John Caird, renowned for his work on the musical adaptation of ‘Les Misérables’, this theatrical reimagining debuted in Tokyo in 2022.
This year, the acclaimed production is set to premiere in London's West End on April 30. Before that, though, it’s embarking on a tour across Japan, offering fans old and new a chance to dive into its magical world once more.
What it's about
‘Spirited Away’ follows the story of Chihiro, a ten-year-old girl who, in her family's move to a new neighbourhood, stumbles upon an abandoned theme park that serves as a gateway to a supernatural realm. Here, gods, witches and spirits roam freely in a world without humans. As Chihiro finds herself trapped in this world, she embarks on a quest to save her parents, who have been turned into pigs, and return to the human world.
Kanna Hashimoto and Mone Kamiraishi, who played the lead role of Chihiro in the debut season, will return to the stage. This time around, they are joined by Rina Kawaii, a former AKB48 member, and Momoko Fukushi, who will alternate in the role of Chihiro.
Visually the production is stunning, all thanks to amazingly life-like puppets designed by Toby Olié. This is complemented by a live orchestra performing Joe Hisaishi's original compositions. The play lasts approximately three hours, including an intermission, and it promises to be an eye-opening experience.
Where to see the show
The Tokyo performances are set to take place at the Tokyo Imperial Theater from March 11 to March 30, with remaining tickets available through a lottery system.
The production will then move to Aichi from April 7 to April 20, with tickets going on sale on March 3. This is a perfect opportunity for visitors to the Ghibli Park this spring to enjoy back-to-back Miyazaki magic.
After Aichi, the show will go to Fukuoka from April 27 to May 19. Tickets for these will be available from 10am JST on March 16.
The show will then play Osaka from May 27 to June 6 (general sales will open on March 16).
The Sapporo production will open on June 15 and run for just five days through June 20 2024 (general ticket sales will begin 10am JST on April 6).
More details here.
How to get tickets
Tickets prices hover between ¥5,000 and ¥17,000, depending on the seat and schedule. Tickets for all the locations mentioned above are available on the following booking sites: Pia, E Plus, Lawson Ticket, CN Play Guide and Ticket Me.
The London show
The London performances, scheduled between April 30 and August 24 this year at the London Coliseum, will be performed in Japanese with English surtitles. This international leg of the tour marks a significant milestone, as it allows a broader audience to experience the magic of ‘Spirited Away’ live on stage. It continues the legacy of Miyazaki's masterpiece in a boldly ambitious and immensely rewarding new format.
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