My Neighbour Totoro

A global premiere as Joe Hisaishi and the RSC bring Studio Ghibli’s enchanting classic coming-of-age film to the stage in a landmark new adaptation in collaboration with Improbable and Nippon TV.

Exploring the magical fantasy world of childhood and the transformative power of imagination, My Neighbour Totoro follows one extraordinary summer in the lives of sisters Satsuki and Mei as they are swept up in exciting adventures with their new neighbours – transported to a long-forgotten realm of spirits, sprites, and natural wonder.

The celebrated 1988 animated feature film by Hayao Miyazaki (Spirited Away) will be brought to the stage by its original composer Joe Hisaishi in this landmark new adaptation written by playwright Tom Morton-Smith (Oppenheimer).

Directed by Phelim McDermott with production design by Tom Pye, costume design by Kimie Nakano, and lighting design by Jessica Hung Han Yun, this ground-breaking production will feature puppetry created by Basil Twist and music from Joe Hisaishi’s iconic score performed live.

Important Information

We suggest age 6+, but younger guests are welcome. The show will be quite long (running time TBC), quite loud in parts and possibly scary for some younger children at moments. Children need to occupy their own seats at all times throughout the performance. This production is not suitable for children under 4 years of age (including babes in arms).

Audio Described - 29 Oct 2.00pm, 18 Jan 7.00pm

BSL-integrated - 15 Dec 2.00pm, 7 Jan 2.00pm

Captioned - 29 Oct 2.00pm, 12 Nov 2.00pm, 8 Dec 2.00pm, 18 Jan 7.00pm

Hand-held captioned - 15 Dec 2.00pm, 7 Jan 2.00pm

Relaxed - 15 Dec 2.00pm, 7 Jan 2.00pm

Touch Tour - 29 Oct 12 – 12.30pm, 18 Jan 5 – 5.30pm

Age Restrictions

We suggest age 6+, but younger guests are welcome. The show will be quite long (running time TBC), quite loud in parts and possibly scary for some younger children at moments. Children need to occupy their own seats at all times throughout the performance. This production is not suitable for children under 4 years of age (including babes in arms).

Performance Times

Now taking bookings for performances from Sat 8th October 2022 until Sat 21st January 2023.

Show times for each day are below.

Barbican Theatre Details

Facilities at Barbican Theatre

Barbican Theatre Location

Please note: The location shown on the map is an approximate location of the theatre. In the majority of cases the theatre will be marked on the map so please make sure you locate the exact location yourself. If the theatre is not shown on the map please make sure you locate the correct road name and take account of the directions.