My Neighbour Totoro

Barbican Centre:

Gillian Lynne Theatre
8 March 2025 – 

Outstandingly theatrical, hugely inventive and totally faithful to the spirit (pun intended) of the original Studio Ghibli animated classic. 
The highlight is the stunning appearance of Totoro. There are 4 sizes of Totoro in evidence, from small to huge. The puppetry is done with incredible style, humour and magic, and is remarkably faithful (visually and emotionally) to the movie. 
Although the initial limited run at the Barbican totally sold out, some day tickets were available, and after seeing it for myself, I’m delighted it’ll be returning again in March 2025  – it’s an absolute tour de force and must be seen.

Documents


LSI: My Neighbour Totoro (2023)
[External Website]
From Lighting & Sound International

Presented by Joe Hisaishi and Royal Shakespeare Company
Directed by Phelim McDermott
Adapted by Tom Morton-Smith
Production Design by Tom Pye
Puppetry by Basil Twist
Costume Design by Kim Nakano
Music by Joe Hisaishi
Lighting Design by Jessica Hung & Han Yun
Sound Design by Tony Gayle
Video Design by Finn Ross and Andrea Scott

 

Set Construction

Puppets

Original animated film trailer