Japanese Pop Culture Takes Over London's Theatres!

Japanese Pop Culture Takes Over London's Theatres!

Dive into the heart of Japanese pop culture with the upcoming theatrical adaptations taking over London's theatres this year.

Once again this year, European fans of pop culture and theatre have something to look forward to. After the success of My Neighbour Totoro, Death Note: The Musical, and The Garden of Words in 2023, new shows are taking over London's stages.

Here's a look at what's in store for audiences in 2024.

My Neighbour Totoro: A Fairytale Adventure at the Barbican Theatre

Adapted from Studio Ghibli's legendary animated film, My Neighbour Totoro returns to the Barbican Theatre on 21 November 2023. Critically acclaimed since its premiere in 2022, the show has won several prestigious awards, including Best Director, Best Set Design, and Best Costume Design.

My Neighbor Totoro follows the adventures of two young sisters, Satsuki (Ami Okumura Jones) and Mei (Mei Mac), who discover an enchanted world inhabited by fantastic creatures when they move into a house in the countryside.

With sumptuous sets and enchanting costumes, this stage adaptation, written by Tom Morton-Smith and directed by Phelim McDermott, promises to capture the imagination of audiences of all ages.

Performances run until 23 March 2024.

 

Your Lie in April: A Musical Romance at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane

At the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Your Lie in April - The Musical In Concert, the musical adaptation of Naoshi Arakawa's best-selling manga, is likely to charm romance fans on 8 and 9 April 2024.

This touching story follows the life of Kousei Arima, a piano prodigy who loses his ability to hear music after his mother’s death. When he meets Kaori Miyazono, a passionate violinist, his life takes a new turn filled with music and love.

This show sees the return of several members of the Death Note: The Musical artistic team, including director Nick Winston, set designer Justin Williams, and Broadway composer Frank Wildhorn.

Spirited Away: A Fantastic Odyssey at the London Coliseum

After conquering Japanese audiences, Spirited Away arrives in London for a series of performances at the London Coliseum from 30 April to 24 August 2024.

This breathtaking adaptation of Hayao Miyazaki's masterpiece introduces us to the extraordinary story of Chihiro, a young girl who finds herself trapped in a mysterious world inhabited by supernatural creatures.

Imagined by John Caird and set to music by Joe Hisaishi, this theatrical production takes audiences on an unforgettable journey through Miyazaki's boundless imagination.

 

Unique Experiences

Shows based on Japanese pop culture are rarely exported outside Japan, which makes them all the more unique. Whether you're a fan of Studio Ghibli films, fantasy tales, or romance, don't miss this exceptional opportunity to discover your favorite stories on stage.

Book your tickets now and get ready to be swept away into fabulous and moving worlds.