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My Neighbour Totoro London tickets
The Kusakabe family are no strangers to moving home! So, it should be no surprise that following a record-breaking run at the Barbican, the award-winning My Neighbour Totoro will transfer to the West End next year! Book your tickets now.
What is My Neighbour Totoro about?
Discover your spirit with the epic return of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s My Neighbour Totoro, the acclaimed staging of the celebrated 1988 animated feature film by Hayao Miyazaki.
My Neighbour Totoro is a captivating coming-of-age tale that celebrates the wondrous magic of childhood and the transformative power of imagination. The story follows two sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who are about to embark on the summer of their lives in the idyllic countryside. With their mother recovering from an illness at a rural convalescent hospital, their father decides to relocate the family so they can be closer to her.
As they explore their enchanting new surroundings, Mei discovers fantastical creatures and encounters Totoro, the ancient and loveable guardian of the forest. Satsuki initially doubts her younger sister’s claims, but soon finds herself joining in on their thrilling adventures. Along with their new friends, the siblings embark on a journey through a mystical world teeming with spirits, sprites, and breathtaking natural wonders.
Facts and critical acclaim
- My Neighbour Totoro is the recipient of six Olivier Awards and five WhatsOnStage Awards, including Best Entertainment or Comedy Play and Best Director.
- The breathtaking production broke the Barbican’s Box Office record for most tickets sold in a single day!
- The critically acclaimed show has received a Totoro sized number of 5-star reviews! With the Financial Times calling it ‘a tender and remarkably beautiful show’ while the Guardian praised its ‘astonishing puppetry, magical music and huge emotional impact’.
Please bear in mind
This production is recommended for ages 6+. Children will need to occupy their own seats at all times throughout the performance.
My Neighbour Totoro creatives
- Adapted by – Tom Morton-Smith
- Director – Phelim McDermott
- Production Design – Tom Pye
- Costume Design – Kimie Nakano
- Lighting Design – Jessica Hung Han Yun
- Movement Design – You-Ri Yamanaka
- Puppetry Design and Direction – Basil Twist
- Music – Joe Hisaishi
- Orchestration - Will Stuart
- Sound Design – Tom Gayle
- Video Design – Finn Ross and Andrea Scott
My Neighbour Totoro cast
Casting to be announced.
Age restriction
This production is not suitable for children under 4 years of age (including babes in arms)Running time
2hrs 40mins (incl. interval)Performance dates
8 March - 2 November 2025Content
The show features puppets, some large scale that will interact in audience space. The show contains themes of an ill parent in hospital. It also features live music and sound effects that will be loud at times and possibly scary for some younger children at moments.Special notes
AGE RECOMMENDATION: 6+ Younger guests are welcome although the production is not suitable for under 4 years old (including babes in arms). younger children and babes in arms are welcome at our relaxed performances. Children need to occupy their own seat at all times through the performance. All persons aged 16 or under must be accompanied by an adult and may not sit on their own within the auditorium. All persons entering the theatre, regardless of age, must have a valid ticket.
Access
Captioned performance: 17 May 2025 at 2pm, 20 July 2025 at 2pm.16 August at 2pm, 12 October at 2pm, Audio Described Performance: 18 May 2025 at 2pm, 19 July 2025 at 2pm, 16 August 2025 at 2pm,Venue Information
Gillian Lynne Theatre166 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5PWRecent Reviews
Latest My Neighbour Totoro News
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News / Features / New Shows + Transfers
Top 10 Best West End Plays
Not to brag, but the West End doesn’t just have the best plays in London; it has the best plays in the world. The original theatreland offers everything from classic comedies and tragedies to innovative immersive productions and groundbreaking contemporary theatre. With so much quality and choice, how do you know what to see? We’ve put together our top 10 best West End plays to help guide you through choosing what to see.
My Neighbour Totoro
If you missed the award-winning stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s 1988 film at the Barbican, then here’s your chance to not make the same mistake twice. The Royal Shakespeare Company’s My Neighbour Totoro earned its status as one of the best theatre plays in London after it won six Olivier Awards and five WhatsOnStage Awards during its initial run. Since, it’s played at the Barbican for a second limited season, and it’s now headed to the Gillian Lynne Theatre in 2025.
My Neighbour Totoro is a beautiful tale of two young girls trying to navigate their new home and emotions after they move to a quiet village when their mum falls ill. Full of charm and magic, it’s fast become a favourite among theatre fans.
The My Neighbour Totoro characters don’t stop at humans. The show features the mythical Totoro, soot sprites, a cat bus and more - all brought to life by incredible puppets.
Though it’s based on an animated film and features a story about children and cute creatures, please be aware that it may not be suitable for younger audience members with a suggested age of 6+. You can get tickets here, and we’ll even help you find the best seats at the Gillian Lynne Theatre.
Stranger Things: The First Shadow
Another magnificent stage adaptation comes in Stranger Things: The First Shadow. A prequel to the TV series, the Stranger Things play is a new story that expands upon the discoveries made in season four.
Not for the faint-hearted, the award-winning play is tense, spooky and nerve-wracking. It follows the story of a young Henry Creel as he tries to settle in a new school while experiencing strange, paranormal events which are turning his world upside down. Featuring Stranger Things characters you know and love - like Hopper, Joyce and Bob - it’s the perfect fix while you wait for season five to drop.
The Stranger Things play is currently on at the Phoenix Theatre. It has a 12+ recommendation, so please check the content warnings before booking your tickets to Stranger Things.
Waiting For Godot
One of the most important theatrical works ever to be written, Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot is headed to the Theatre Royal Haymarket with a stellar cast.
Exploring the meaning of life, Didi and Gogo wait by a tree for a man named Godot. The groundbreaking play is both beautiful in its simplicity and wrought with complexity. With just two actors on a static stage, it’s a captivating dramatic piece, often regarded as one of the greatest plays of the 20th century.
Starring Lucian Msamati and Ben Whishaw, it's bound to sell out, so make sure you book your tickets to Waiting For Godot now!
Juno and the Paycock
Often cited as an Irish masterpiece, Juno and the Paycock is one of history’s best tragi-comedies. The thrilling new adaptation (which is directed by Matthew Warchus) will star Tony nominee J. Smith-Cameron and Oscar winner Mark Rylance.
Set in Dublin in 1922, the Juno and the Paycock characters struggle to keep their family together and survive in a tiny tenement during the Irish Civil War.
You can see the highly-anticipated return of Sean O’Casey’s play at the Gielgud Theatre from September 2024. It’s only on for nine weeks, so make sure you don’t miss out and book your Juno and the Paycock tickets today.
The Play That Goes Wrong
Head to The Play That Goes Wrong at the Duchess Theatre for some tomfoolery and disastrously good entertainment.
The slapstick comedy has been described as a cross between Fawlty Towers and Noises Off. Between collapsing floors, sticky doors, actors forgetting lines, injuries, and more, it’s a non-stop laugh-a-thon.
When it opened in 2014, the show’s creators - Mischief Comedy - were little-known. Now, they have some of the biggest and best comedy shows in London. Recommended for audiences aged 8+, the fabulous farce is a great way to cultivate new theatre lovers. So what are you waiting for? Get The Play That Goes Wrong tickets now!
17 Jul, 2024 | By Carly Clements-Yu
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News / Features
Gillian Lynne Theatre Best seats and seating plan
The Mogul Music Hall is the first theatre known to stand on the site of the theatre we now know as the Gillian Lynne Theatre. Between 1919 and 1965 the venue was named The Winter Gardens and after major renovations became the New London Theatre in 1973. The Gillian Lynne Theatre was home to Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats which was the longest running musical in West End history when the show closed in 2002. In 2018 the decision was made to rename the theatre to The Gillian Lynne Theatre, after the groundbreaking choreographer, making it the first London Theatre to ever be named after a woman.
What are the best seats at the Gillian Lynne Theatre?
The theatre's thrust stage protrudes into the auditorium meaning that the seats are on three sides surrounding the stage over the two levels of the Stalls and Dress Circle. Due to this layout some of the seats do offer a side view to the stage but all seats ensure that patrons are close to the action wherever they choose to sit.
Gillian Lynne Theatre seating plan
5 Jun, 2024 | By James Wareham
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News
What’s opening in London theatres this month? (November 2023)
In November, London's West End comes to life with the perfect sprinkle of magic. With the festive season around the corner and fireworks filling the night sky, we welcome flying snowmen, tales of redemption, and anything to keep our tummies warm!
We all know that November is one of the cosiest months of the year, so grab your favourite mug, fill it with hot chocolate (extra marshmallows, please), and take a look at our list of shows opening in London in November. While you’re at it, give yourself an early gift by looking at our list of Christmas shows!
1 Nov, 2023 | By Kevin Thomas
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News / Casting
Casting announced for the return of My Neighbour Totoro
Executive Producer Joe Hisaishi, in partnership with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) has revealed the full cast for the highly acclaimed stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli's beloved My Neighbor Totoro. Set to make a limited return to The Barbican, My Neighbour Totoro will run from November 21, 2023, to March 23, 2024.
This coming-of-age story teaches us about the beauty of childhood imagination and its transformative power. Join sisters Satsuki and Mei on what is about to be the most magical summer of their lives.
29 Sep, 2023 | By Kevin Thomas
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News / Features / New Shows + Transfers
Top eight plays to see this Autumn
Autumn sunshine and crimson leaves, crisp night air and bonfire smoke, misty streets and pink skies that shimmer with purple - Autumn is a beautiful (and theatrical) season in the calendar year, and with the addition of these eight must-see plays, the pumpkin-spiced season just got a whole lot more dramatic!
The trees may be bare of their leaves, but theatreland is flourishing with a host of new delights. Whether you seek comfort in a classic this Autumn or want a second chance to see a critically acclaimed off-West End show, there's something for everyone. So, grab the warmest scarf in your wardrobe and some sweet treats to munch on, as we take a look at what's on offer this Autumn.
27 Sep, 2023 | By Sian McBride
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News / Features / New Shows + Transfers
Tickets are now on sale for My Neighbour Totoro
Get ready to unleash your inner spirit with the Royal Shakespeare Company’s highly anticipated return of My Neighbour Totoro. This stunning stage production based on Hayao Miyazaki's beloved animated film will take you straight to the heart of a mystical forest filled with wonder! My Neighbour Totoro will be playing at London’s Barbican for a limited 18-week run starting November 21st and tickets are now on sale.
Winner of not one, not two, but five WhatsOnStage Awards and nominated for an incredible nine Olivier Awards, My Neighbour Totoro has been hailed as an enchanting, genre-defying modern classic. Let’s adventure with Totoro, book your tickets now before they disappear like little spirits!
19 Apr, 2023 | By Kevin Thomas
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News / Features / New Shows + Transfers
My Neighbour Totoro set to return to the Barbican
Produced and composed by Joe Hisaishi and the Royal Shakespeare Company, Studio Ghibli's groundbreaking My Neighbour Totoro is set for a highly-anticipated and magical return to the Barbican theatre from 21 November to 23 March 2024!
The stunning stage adaptation of the celebrated 1988 animated film by Hayao Miyazaki premiered in October 2022, breaking the Barbican's box office record for most tickets sold in a single day, and winning five What's on Stage Awards. It was also nominated for nine Olivier Awards, the highest number of nominations for any production this year. Sign up for updates on when tickets will be released for this modern classic!
30 Mar, 2023 | By Kevin Thomas
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News / Awards / Features
My Neighbour Totoro Leads Olivier Award Nominations
Barbican’s enchanting coming-of-age story, My Neighbour Totoro, leads the pack at this year’s Olivier Awards with a staggering 9 nominations. Brought to the life by the Royal Shakespeare Company, this adaptation utilises music from the legendary Studio Ghibli composer Joe Hisaishi, to create a mythical, magical world. This heartfelt story of two siblings competes for a range of awards at this year’s ceremony, including Best Director, Best Actress, Best Theatre Choreographer, and Best Original Score.
The National Theatre boasts its strongest set of Olivier Awards in years, securing 16 nominations across six of its productions. Standing at the Sky’s Edge, is the theatres most nominated piece, receiving 8 nods - the most for any musical this year. Will the Sheffield-based musical ‘steel’ the show? With contenders in the Best New Musical, Best Director, Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress categories, it will certainly try to.
From new pieces to reinventions of American classics, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! earns 7 nominations, with 4 of these coming from acting categories. Liza Sadovy and Marisha Wallace for Best Actress in a Supporting Role in a Musical, Anoushka Lucas for Best Actress in a Musical, and Arthur Darvill for Best Actor in a Musical.
Also competing in the musical acting categories are Katie Brayben and Andrew Rannells for their roles in the evangelical musical Tammy Faye. Two-time Olivier Award nominee, Beverley Knight, for her performance in the suffragette musical Sylvia at The Old Vic Theatre, and three-time Olivier Award nominee Clive Rowe for his performance in Sister Act.
Although this is Rowe’s fourth nomination, he is a relative newcomer to the awards compared to Janet McTeer, who today received her sixth nomination, this time for her performance as Phaedra at the National Theatre. Today also saw sound designers Max and Ben Ringham, costume designer Hugh Durrant, and choreographer Crystal Pite all receive their 5th nominations.
On the other end of the scale, 27 actors received their first-ever Olivier nomination today, including household names: Paul Mescal, Caroline Quentin, Jodie Comer, Rose Ayling-Ellis, and legendary fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier.
The winners of this year’s Olivier Awards will be announced at the star-studded ceremony, hosted by three-time Olivier Award nominee, and star of Ted Lasso, Hannah Waddingham, on the 2nd April 2023. A full list of those hoping to collect the award at the Royal Albert Hall can be found below.
28 Feb, 2023 | By Sian McBride
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News / Awards
Winners announced for the 23rd WhatsOnStage Awards
It was a night like no other at the 23rd annual WhatsOnStage Awards, as some of the most renowned names in theatre gathered together to host a spectacular ceremony. The red carpet was rolled out, the buzz of chatter and applause filled the air and once again the WhatsOnStage Awards brought together an electric mix of up-and-coming and established stars, proving that the awards are the epitome of celebration and theatrical brilliance. Theatre-goers nationwide once again had the opportunity to nominate their firm favourites from the stage, and this year the commitment to inclusivity was dialled up a notch, with the addition of gender-neutral performance categories!
The 23rd WhatsOnStage Awards were graced by the presence of iconic presenters such as Jake Shears, George Takei, Bonnie Langford, Tracy-Ann Oberman, Arlene Phillips and Lisa Scott-Lee. Here’s a rundown of the night's events!
15 Feb, 2023 | By Kevin Thomas
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News / Productions / Awards / Features
The nominations for the 23rd annual WhatsOnStage Awards
The 23rd annual WhatsOnStage Awards are here, and this year the competition includes an incredible display of theatre talent. It has been an awe-inspiring year for shows, and the awards are back to celebrate the industry in all of its glory, including everyone who makes theatre thrive - those on stage, those backstage and those offstage, as well as the audiences who make it all possible by attending shows!
The announcement of this year's nominations means the opening of the final voting stage. Winners will be announced at the annual awards ceremony, which will be held on 12 February 2023 at the Prince of Wales Theatre!
8 Dec, 2022 | By Kevin Thomas