Royal Shakespeare Company readies stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbour Totoro

The Royal Shakespeare Company will premiere a stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbour Totoro at London’s Barbican this October.

The 1988 animated film – written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki – will be brought to the stage by its original composer, Joe Hisaishi, in an adaptation written by Tom Morton-Smith and directed by Phelim McDermott. The production will also feature puppetry created by Basil Twist.

“In Japan, many people are passionate about theatre and musicals, but there are no original Japanese shows or musicals performed in the world; Totoro is a Japanese work famous throughout the world, and so this stage adaptation could have the potential to reach global audiences,” said Joe Hisaishi, Executive Producer and Original Composer of My Neighbour Totoro.

“This responsibility is a huge task, but we chose to work with the Royal Shakespeare Company, a globally prestigious company, and with their support we can make it happen. I am delighted that the RSC have become our partner because I feel much in common between the quality of the RSC and Mr. Miyazaki’s aesthetic. This is a ground-breaking project. Phelim McDermott is a wonderful director, and his team are enthusiastic, creative and very hardworking. They love Totoro and the sense of anticipation is high.

“I was involved with the original animation film, and so I feel strongly about not harming the film. If the story is universal – as I believe it is – it will have a global reach even if it is performed by people from different cultural backgrounds speaking different languages. I was sure of this – and so we have chosen to open outside Japan. To me this was important. It’s vital to keep distance with the film but it’s also important to have new encounters. That’s why I put my trust in this project. I believe it will be a great show.”

The RSC’s Acting Artistic Director, Erica Whyman, added: “After many years of development, I am proud our collaboration with Joe Hisaishi and Studio Ghibli is taking flight at the Barbican in what is set to be a ground-breaking and spectacular theatrical event.”

The Royal Shakespeare Company’s My Neighbour Totoro will open at the Barbican for a 15-week season from Saturday October 8th 2022 to Saturday January 21st 2023.