News
My Neighbor Totoro London Stage Run Has Final Extension To January 2027
posted on by Andrew Osmond
The announcement includes a message from the Royal Shakespeare Company's co-artistic directors, Daniel Evans and Tamara Harvey:
“From its beginnings at the Barbican, My Neighbor 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.”
The play's current cast includes Helen Chong as Satsuki, Victoria Chen as Satsuki's sister Mei, Dai Tabuchi as their father Tatsuo, Jacqueline Tate as Granny and Ai Ninomiya as the Singer.
Previously, My Neighbor Totoro had its first 15-week run at London's Barbican Centre, from its premiere on October 8, 2022 to January 21, 2023. It was presented by the RSC and Hayao Miyazaki's longtime composer Joe Hisaishi, who created the music for the original film and serves as the play's executive producer. Tom Morton-Smith (Oppenheimer) adapted the story, and Phelim McDermott (Akhnaten) directed the production. The play was made in collaboration with the English theatre company Improbable and Japan's Nippon TV.
The play had its second run at the Barbican Centre from November 21 2023 until March 23, 2024.
The play won six awards at the Olivier Awards in April 2023, and was nominated for three more. The play had the most number of nominations and wins, with nine nominations and six wins. The play also won five awards at the theatrical WhatsOnStage Awards in February 2023.
"This enchanting coming-of-age story 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.
The original anime film My Neighbor Totoro is the story of two young sisters, Mei and Satsuki, who move to the countryside and encounter Totoro, wonderful creatures which only children can see.
Source: Royal Shakespeare Company website.
