Renowned anime film 'Spirited Away' by Studio Ghibli set for US theater resurgence
In an exciting development for Studio Ghibli fans in America, the stage adaptation of the beloved animated film, Spirited Away, is set to be released this spring. Titled SPIRITED AWAY: Live On Stage, this production offers a unique, dazzling interpretation of the movie.
GKids, a New York-based producer, has acquired the audiovisual allocation rights for the stage play. According to GKids president David Jesteadt, the stage production will offer a unique opportunity for Studio Ghibli fans in America.
The stage play is directed by the renowned director, John Caird, who is best known for his work on the acclaimed productions of Les Misérables and Nicholas Nickleby.
The star-studded Japanese cast features Kanna Hashimoto and Mone Kamishiraishi, who will both star as Chihiro in two separate filmed performances. Although specific casting for Yubaba and other characters in the Japanese stage play is not explicitly detailed, the production is notable for its faithful and imaginative adaptation of Hayao Miyazaki’s film, with cast members selected from prominent Japanese actors.
The movie revolves around Chihiro, a young girl who embarks on a journey in a mysterious realm. Chihiro works for the old witch Yubaba in exchange for her protection. To find her way back to her real world, Chihiro must face challenges with courage.
Mari Natsuki, the original voice actor for Yubaba in Spirited Away, will reprise her role in the stage play. Natsuki expressed excitement about playing Yubaba on stage again after 20 years.
The original stage play premiered in Tokyo in 2022 and has since toured internationally, including a large run in London in 2024 and upcoming performances in Seoul in early 2026.
For the 2025 UK production at The Egg Theatre Bath, cast members mentioned include Ailsa Dalling, Fred Davis, Elisa De Grey, and Ben Thompson, but their roles, including who plays Chihiro or Yubaba, are not specified.
The stage adaptation of another Miyazaki work, Neighbor Totoro, has already been announced. Fans of Studio Ghibli can look forward to more magical experiences on stage.
Stay tuned for more updates on SPIRITED AWAY: Live On Stage and its release in US theaters this spring.
Movies-and-TV enthusiasts and entertainment aficionados can eagerly anticipate the stage adaptation of Spirited Away, titled SPIRITED AWAY: Live On Stage, set to be released in US theaters this spring. This production, a unique opportunity for Studio Ghibli fans in America, is directed by the renowned director John Caird, well-known for his work on Les Misérables and Nicholas Nickleby.
