My Neighbour Totoro
Gillian Lynne TheatreThe Royal Shakespeare Company's breathtaking adaptation of Studio Ghibli's beloved animated film is now at the Gillian Lynne Theatre. Winner of six Olivier Awards, this 'profoundly magical experience' (Elle) brings Hayao Miyazaki's enchanting tale to life through spectacular puppetry, including the unforgettable Totoro and the legendary Catbus. A coming-of-age story celebrating childhood imagination.
from
Powered by tickadoo.com
from
Powered by tickadoo.com
2 hours 40 minutes (including interval)
Under 4s not admitted
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Why book with tickadoo?
- Last minute availability
- Full refund if your event is cancelled
- 100% Secure payment process
- Access exclusive prices
- Instant e-ticket delivery
What is My Neighbour Totoro about?
Sisters Satsuki and Mei move to a ramshackle house in the Japanese countryside to be closer to their mother, who is recovering from illness in a nearby hospital. As they explore their new home, they discover a world of magical creatures - from tiny soot sprites to the giant, friendly forest spirit named Totoro. When Mei goes missing, Satsuki must seek help from the magical beings to find her sister.
How long has My Neighbour Totoro been running in London?
My Neighbour Totoro premiered at the Barbican Theatre in October 2022, where it broke box office records and won six Olivier Awards. After a second sold-out Barbican season, it transferred to the Gillian Lynne Theatre in March 2025 and has now extended booking to August 2026 due to extraordinary demand.
How do they bring Totoro to life on stage?
The production features extraordinary puppetry by Basil Twist (Puppetry Director & Designer) and Mervyn Millar (War Horse). The Kazego Puppetry Ensemble operates the creatures using a technique the creative team calls 'wind spirits'. Totoro himself is a massive, furry puppet, and the Catbus is a spectacular creation that appears to bound across the stage.
Is My Neighbour Totoro suitable for children?
Absolutely! My Neighbour Totoro is perfect for children aged 6 and above. The story celebrates childhood imagination, sibling bonds, and the wonder of nature. The puppetry and staging create genuine theatrical magic that captivates young audiences. Note: the story involves themes of an ill parent, which may require some conversation with younger viewers.
What are the best seats for My Neighbour Totoro?
The Gillian Lynne Theatre has a thrust stage configuration, meaning seats surround the stage on three sides. This creates an intimate experience from most seats. The Stalls offer the best view of the puppetry details, while the Dress Circle provides an excellent overview of the magical staging.
Do I need to have seen the film to enjoy the play?
Not at all! The play tells the complete story beautifully. However, fans of Studio Ghibli and Hayao Miyazaki's 1988 animated masterpiece will be delighted by the faithful adaptation and the inventive ways the creative team has brought the magical world to three-dimensional life.
Know before you go
What age is My Neighbour Totoro suitable for?
My Neighbour Totoro is recommended for ages 6 and above. Children under 4 (including babes in arms) will not be admitted to the Gillian Lynne Theatre. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult (18+).
How long is My Neighbour Totoro?
The performance runs for approximately 2 hours and 30-40 minutes, including one interval.
Does My Neighbour Totoro contain any difficult themes?
Yes, the story involves themes of an ill parent in hospital. This is handled sensitively and may be a useful talking point for families who have experienced similar situations.
Visitor guidelines
Can children attend My Neighbour Totoro alone?
No, children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult (18+) and seated together at the Gillian Lynne Theatre. All guests, regardless of age, must have a valid ticket.
What happens if I arrive late to My Neighbour Totoro?
Latecomers will only be admitted to the auditorium at a suitable break in the performance. Late admission cannot be guaranteed, and no refunds or exchanges will be given.
Can I take photos at My Neighbour Totoro?
Photography and video recording are not permitted during the performance.
Cast and creatives
Who is in the My Neighbour Totoro London cast?
The West End cast features Victoria Chen as Mei, Ami Okumura Jones as Satsuki, Dai Tabuchi as their father Tatsuo, Jacqueline Tate as Granny, and Ai Ninomiya as the Singer. The Kazego Puppetry Ensemble brings the magical creatures to life, including Matthew Leonhart, Heather Lai, Shaofan Wilson, and Anna Kato.
Who created My Neighbour Totoro for the stage?
My Neighbour Totoro is adapted by Tom Morton-Smith (Oppenheimer) from Hayao Miyazaki's celebrated 1988 animated film. The production is directed by Phelim McDermott (Olivier Award winner), with puppetry by Basil Twist and Mervyn Millar. It's from the Royal Shakespeare Company and Executive Producer Joe Hisaishi - the legendary composer who scored the original film.
Awards
What awards has My Neighbour Totoro won?
My Neighbour Totoro won six Olivier Awards in 2023 - the most of any show that year - including Best Entertainment or Comedy Play, Best Director (Phelim McDermott), Best Set Design, Best Costume Design, Best Lighting Design, and Best Sound Design. It also won five WhatsOnStage Awards. Critics have called it 'jaw-dropping' (Metro) and a 'profoundly magical experience' (Elle).
Opening times
Tuesday-Saturday 7pm, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday 2pm, (Monday at 7pm on 10, 17, 24 and 31 March) Thursday and Saturday at 2pm from 22nd March, Sunday at 2pm from 13th April
Frequently asked questions
How long is My Neighbour Totoro including interval?
My Neighbour Totoro runs for approximately 2 hours 30-40 minutes, including one interval of about 15 minutes.
Is My Neighbour Totoro scary for children?
The magical creatures, including Totoro, are friendly and endearing rather than frightening. The show is designed to capture the warmth and wonder of the original film. Some children may find the soot sprites amusing rather than scary!
Where is My Neighbour Totoro playing in London?
My Neighbour Totoro plays at the Gillian Lynne Theatre, 166 Drury Lane, London WC2B 5PW. The nearest tube stations are Covent Garden (Piccadilly line) and Holborn (Central and Piccadilly lines).
What time does My Neighbour Totoro start?
Evening performances are Tuesday to Saturday at 7pm (with some Monday performances). Matinee performances are Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2pm.
Is this show in Japanese or English?
My Neighbour Totoro is performed in English, though the story is set in Japan and the production respectfully honours its Japanese origins.
In Gillian Lynne Theatre
Venue address
166 Drury Lane, Camden WC2B 5PW
Seating plan
Access
WHEELCHAIR ACCESS:
Wheelchair escalator, spaces and transfer seats available
Are there adapted toilets?
An adapted toilet is available
ASSISTED PERFORMANCES:Are there facilities for the hard-of-hearing?
There is an infrared system working throughout the auditorium (6 headsets)
Are guide dogs and/or hearing dogs permitted?
Access dogs are allowed inside the auditorium. Staff dog-sitting available.
Please contact the theatre directly for further information.
Get the best of British theatre straight to your inbox
Be first to the best tickets, exclusive offers, and the latest West End news.
You can unsubscribe at any time. Privacy policy