The six-time Olivier Award-winning stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbour Totoro is now playing in London’s West End. The Royal Shakespeare Company production runs at the Gillian Lynne Theatre until 10 January 2027. This is the final extension — book now before it closes.
Key Details
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Venue | Gillian Lynne Theatre, 166 Drury Lane, London WC2B 5PW |
| Running | Until 10 January 2027 (final extension) |
| Times | Mon-Sat 7pm; Matinees Thu, Sat, Sun 2pm |
| Duration | 2 hours 30 minutes (including 20-minute interval) |
| Age | 6+ recommended. Under 4s not admitted. Under 16s must be accompanied by adult. |
| Tickets | From £15 (Acorn Performances), standard from £25 |
What Is It?
This is a stage adaptation of Hayao Miyazaki’s beloved 1988 animated film, brought to life by the Royal Shakespeare Company. The production uses extraordinary puppetry — including life-sized versions of Totoro and the Catbus — designed by Basil Twist and created by Jim Henson’s Creature Shop.
The story: Sisters Satsuki and Mei move to the countryside with their father while their mother recovers in hospital. Exploring their new home, Mei discovers magical creatures and the ancient protector of the forest she calls “Totoro.” What follows is a summer of imagination, wonder, and the quiet magic of everyday life.
The music: Joe Hisaishi’s iconic score from the original film is performed live by a band and singer, in a new orchestration by Will Stuart.
Awards
The production won six Olivier Awards in 2023 — more than any other show that year:
- Best Entertainment or Comedy Play
- Best Director (Phelim McDermott)
- Best Set Design (Tom Pye)
- Best Costume Design (Kimie Nakano)
- Best Lighting Design (Jessica Hung Han Yun)
- Best Sound Design (Tony Gayle)
The show also broke the Barbican Centre’s box office record for single-day ticket sales.
History
- October 2022: World premiere at the Barbican Centre
- November 2023 – March 2024: Return season at the Barbican
- March 2025: West End transfer to Gillian Lynne Theatre
- August 2026: Extended
- January 2027: Final closing date announced
This is the show’s final London run. After January 2027, the production closes.
Tickets
Official booking (no fees):
- LW Theatres — official venue site
Other authorized sellers:
Acorn Performances: Limited performances with tickets from £15 (Circle) and £25 (Stalls). Check availability for these discounted shows.
Kids Week 2026: During Official London Theatre’s Kids Week (15 August – 13 September 2026), kids go free on select performances. Save up to £50 per ticket.
Access performances:
- Audio Described: Saturday 4 July 2026, 2pm
- Captioned: Check venue for dates
Getting There
Gillian Lynne Theatre 166 Drury Lane London WC2B 5PW
Transport:
- Tube: Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line) — closest station
- Tube: Holborn (Central, Piccadilly Lines) — 5 minute walk
- Bus: 8, 188, N1, N171, N242, N68 stop on Drury Lane
The theatre is in the heart of Covent Garden, surrounded by restaurants and bars.
Why Go?
This is not just a stage show with Ghibli branding. It’s a theatrical experience that captures what makes the original film so beloved — the gentleness, the wonder, the attention to small moments of beauty.
The puppetry is extraordinary. Totoro is brought to life by a team of puppeteers operating a massive, furry creature that somehow feels both magical and real. The Catbus is equally impressive — a 4-metre-long puppet that bounds across the stage.
Joe Hisaishi’s music, performed live, adds another layer of emotional depth. If you’ve ever cried at the original film, prepare yourself.
Critics have called it a “huge, healing hug of a show” (The Stage) and “jaw-dropping” (Metro). The six Olivier Awards speak for themselves.
Whether you’re a lifelong Ghibli fan or introducing children to Miyazaki’s world for the first time, this production delivers.
Final run until January 2027 — this is your last chance to see it in London.
More Studio Ghibli in London: Joe Hisaishi conducts at Royal Albert Hall on 23 November 2026.