Spirited Away at the London Coliseum is a breathtaking theatrical adaptation of Hayao Miyazaki's beloved animated masterpiece, reimagined for the stage in a way that captivates both visually and emotionally. Directed by John Caird and featuring the original Japanese cast, this production faithfully brings to life the fantastical world that Studio Ghibli fans know so well.
The story follows Chihiro, a ten-year-old girl who finds herself in a surreal and magical world after her parents are transformed into pigs. The stage adaptation beautifully captures the essence of Miyazaki’s film, with a multilevel set that transforms into the mystical bathhouse where gods and spirits congregate. The production makes use of intricate puppetry and elaborate costumes, blending traditional Japanese theatrical techniques with modern stagecraft to create a world that feels both familiar and wondrously new.
The role of Chihiro is performed by a rotating cast that includes Kanna Hashimoto, Mone Kamishiraishi, Rina Kawaei, and Momoko Fukuchi. Each actress brings a unique interpretation to the character, but Hashimoto and Kamishiraishi, in particular, stand out for their deeply moving performances.
One of the standout elements is the portrayal of No-Face, a mysterious spirit that evolves from a quiet presence to a terrifying force within the story. The performance by Hikaru Yamano is particularly striking, using fluid choreography to convey the eerie and unsettling nature of the character. Similarly, the witch Yubaba, with her enormous, expressive features, dominates the stage whenever she appears, adding to the production’s larger-than-life feel.
The music, adapted from Joe Hisaishi's iconic film score and performed live, adds a layer of depth that immerses the audience fully into the world of the spirits. The combination of live orchestration with the detailed and surreal visual elements creates a sensory experience that is as emotionally engaging as it is visually stunning.
However, the show does more than just replicate the film; it enriches the narrative with moments of poignant reflection, particularly in the intimate scenes between Chihiro and the spirits she encounters. These moments ground the fantastical elements, making the story’s emotional beats resonate even more deeply.
Spirited Away at the London Coliseum is a triumph of both engineering and artistry. It pays homage to the original film while standing as a unique and ambitious theatrical experience that lingers in the memory long after the final curtain falls. Whether you're a long-time fan of Studio Ghibli or new to its magic, this production offers a journey that is both enchanting and unforgettable.
