The Halcyonite

Article and Photos By Felix, ‘25

The live-action stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s animated film “Spirited Away” at the London Coliseum brings a fresh and immersive interpretation of Hayao Miyazaki’s animated classic. Under the direction of John Caird, this production runs from April to July, allowing audiences the opportunity to experience the enchanting tale of Chihiro’s journey in a unique and vivid way. This adaptation features the original Japanese cast, inventive puppetry, and a live orchestra performing Joe Hisaishi’s iconic score.

A standout feature of the production is its use of imaginative puppetry, as seen above, as well as its elaborate set designs, which effectively bring Miyazaki’s fantastical world to life. The intricately detailed puppets, including a life-sized No-Face and a towering Haku dragon, allow audiences to witness the magic of Chihiro’s encounters with spirits and creatures, such as No-Face and the bathhouse’s varied inhabitants. The smooth and fluid stage transitions mirror the fluidity of the animated film, enabling the audience to seamlessly follow Chihiro’s journey through different realms.

The live-action adaptation stays largely true to the narrative and themes of the original film but condenses the story due to the constraints of a stage production. This results in a quicker pace and a focus on key moments rather than an extensive exploration of characters and subplots. Nevertheless, the original Japanese cast’s spirited performances maintain the essence of Chihiro’s journey, conveying her transformation from a scared girl into a brave and determined heroine.

One of the most striking elements of the production is the live orchestra, which adds a dynamic layer to the performance. The orchestra’s rendition of Hisaishi’s score enriches the emotional depth of the story and creates a more immersive experience than the recorded soundtrack could offer. The orchestral music evokes a range of moods, from hauntingly ethereal during Chihiro’s moments of wonder and discovery, to exhilaratingly dramatic during her encounters with perilous spirits and challenges.

While the stage adaptation may feel more rushed than the film due to the necessary condensation of the story, the overall production is a triumph in bringing Miyazaki’s vision to life in a new medium. The combination of the cast’s performances, the live music, and the detailed puppetry allows the audience to reconnect with the world of “Spirited Away” in a novel and captivating manner.

The key concept at the heart of this adaptation is the transition from animation to live theatre. This production successfully captures the whimsical and magical spirit of the original film while offering a distinct theatrical experience. The authenticity provided by the original Japanese cast, combined with the creative visual and musical elements, makes for a memorable performance.

In evaluating the production, its cultural authenticity and high production values stand out as notable strengths. The long-term impact of this adaptation could be its influence on how other animated films are reimagined for the stage, showcasing how to effectively bring animation to life in front of a live audience.

The live-action adaptation of “Spirited Away” provides an enchanting and memorable experience for both fans of the original film and newcomers. Despite its slightly quicker pace, the production’s creativity and performances make it an exceptional theatrical event that should not be missed during its run from April to July.