I went to see My Neighbor Totoro in London expecting nostalgia. I thought it would be charming, visually impressive, maybe even a little whimsical. I did not expect to see grown adults wiping away tears.
I watched the movie years ago and was curious what a Totoro stage adaptation in London would even look like. More specifically, I wanted to see how they would utilize animatronics to bring Totoro and his friends to life.
I can confidently tell you: the show did not disappoint.
A Family Friendly Theatre Experience
Before the show started, the actors playing Mei and Satsuki came out to share house rules. They let us know this is a relaxed environment and the house lights will stay on. We were encouraged to move around, cry, and laugh as you please. But mostly importantly have fun.
There were also lounges, dedicated play areas, and a 20-minute intermission (also referred to as an Interval) at the show.
The Set Design Was Pure Imagination
The set design was whimsical and extended beyond the traditional stage, stretching left and right into platforms that housed the musicians. The main house part of the set rotated like a lazy Susan, revealing different rooms and levels. It was as close to the movie version as one could imagine.
The recreations of the forest scenes were breathtaking.
Honestly, of all the shows I’ve seen in the past two years, sets design is what consistently leave me in awe. The imagination and discipline required to construct these worlds is extraordinary. Every time I leave a theatre, I find myself wondering if I should study set design. That’s how deeply it moves me.
The Animatronics Were Shockingly Believable
What surprised me the most was the how the used animatronics and puppets to create Totoro, his friends and the soot sprites.
Not that I doubted it could be done, but I wasn’t prepared for how believable it would feel.
My mouth dropped open when a sleeping Totoro was revealed. He was gigantic! It was magical. Even the little faces around me were viewing in amazement. The scale. The movement. The tenderness in the design. It was beautifully executed.
Why it Hits Differently as an Adult
Watching the play more than a decade after first seeing the film, helped me understand new themes that I hadn’t noticed before.
Viewing childhood anxiety through my now adult lens hits differently.
Totoro isn’t just fantasy but a true symbol of safety during instability. A safe presence when life feels uncertain. That symbolism feels deeper now than it did years ago. And maybe that’s why some adults cried.
Who I’d Recommended It To
I would recommend this show to anyone. But more specifically:
- First time London theatre West End experience and you don’t know what to choose
- Fans of immersive stage productions and animatronics
- Solo theater goers (like me)
- Families looking for a show both children and adults can enjoy
Would I recommend My Neighbor Totoro in London?
Absolutely!
I would see it again.
I also realize I haven’t seen any immersive shows in the U.S. yet and will so that I can compare the experiences.
I really enjoyed this show. The artistry of the production team and the believability of all the actors.