The multi-award-winning stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbour Totoro has announced a further extension in the West End, now booking until 30 August 2026 at the Gillian Lynne Theatre.
To celebrate the extended run, brand new production images have been released, showcasing the magical world of Totoro and the forest spirits.
Executive Producer Joe Hisaishi and the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC), in collaboration with Nippon TV and Improbable, continue to bring this beloved story to life for London audiences.
RSC Co-Artistic Directors Daniel Evans and Tamara Harvey said:
“My Neighbour Totoro is a story of kindness, courage and the power of the imagination. Our audiences get to meet the magical creatures of the forest through extraordinary storytelling, dazzling puppetry and beautiful songs. Watching the joy on people’s faces when they meet Catbus, Chu, Sho and of course Totoro, is a delight to behold, and we can’t wait to welcome more people to the show at the Gillian Lynne Theatre.”
Kenichi Yoda, Nippon TV and Studio Ghibli, added:
“We are truly thrilled that My Neighbour Totoro’s journey in London is set to enter its third year. It is our heartfelt wish that you will share this story with your loved ones — your family, friends, or partner. It’s a show that reminds you to cherish the people you love even more on your way home.”
Adapted by Tom Morton-Smith from Hayao Miyazaki’s 1988 animated classic, the production is directed by Phelim McDermott, Co-Founder of Improbable.
The cast includes Victoria Chen as Mei, Ami Okumura Jones as Satsuki, Dai Tabuchi as Tatsuo, Jacqueline Tate as Granny, and Ai Ninomiya as the Singer.
The Kazego Puppetry Ensemble features Rachel Clare Chan, Sally Cheng, Sabrina Pui Yee Chin, Victor Itang, Gabriel S Janoras, Anna Kato, Heather Lai, Ronnie Lee, Matthew Leonhart, Kumiko Mendl, Annakanako Mohri, Lucy Park, Richard Peralta, Chloe Ragrag, and Shaofan Wilson.
Also joining the company are Phyllis Ho, Steven Nguyen, Jamie Zubairi, Deanna Myers, and swing puppeteers Boaz Chad, Wenshin Lee, Amber Lin, Sera Maehara, and Nathaniel Tan.
The production features design by Tom Pye, puppetry by Basil Twist, costumes by Kimie Nakano, lighting by Jessica Hung Han Yun, and movement by You-Ri Yamanaka.
Music from Joe Hisaishi’s original score is newly orchestrated by Will Stuart, performed live with sound design by Tony Gayle. Video design is by Finn Ross and Andrea Scott, with dramaturgy by Pippa Hill, casting by Hannah Miller CDG, and soundscape design by Nicola T Chang.
Artwork includes a hand-drawn title by Toshio Suzuki, Producer for Studio Ghibli.
My Neighbour Totoro tells the story of sisters Satsuki and Mei, who move to the countryside to be closer to their ill mother. There, they encounter magical creatures and embark on adventures in a realm of spirits and natural wonder.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
