Devotees of Studio Ghibli’s animations will rejoice in welcoming the Japanese production – performed in the original language – of Spirited Away to the London Coliseum.
Already given a 5 week extension to the initial booking period, this show uses Joe Hisaishi’s original film score, stunning visuals, and a high level of puppetry and performance to bring the world of Chihiro’s adventures to life.
When Chihiro, a young girl, and her parents pass through an unusual tunnel on their way home, strange, grotesque and fantastical creatures meet them at every turn. As her parents become bewitched by a spell, it is up to Chihiro (renamed Sen) to get things back to normality.
If you have seen the original film, there are few plot surprises here. The attraction is in seeing characters from animation take shape thanks to the actors, dancers, puppeteers and designers of the company.
Technically, there is so much detail and skill involved that wherever you look you would find something to entertain or entrance you. Surtitles are available throughout and visible from all seats.
Spirited Away is very funny, with plenty of time for some roles to shine. The main set, by Jon Bausor, of bath house as Noh stage, revolves and changes so it looks very different. There are lighting changes, puppets which take flight, a sprinkling of songs.
This is a world of wonderland, much like Alice’s adventures. There is shape-shifting, peril, and friendship. From the industrious ‘sooty’ workers to the sweet-natured dragon, every character is carefully crafted and depicted.
No-Name’s pulsing body of consumed dancers and graceful work by Hikaru Yamano is a particular highlight, as is Yuya Igarashi ‘s comic turn as the three-headed Kashira. The set also allows for projections, a large expanse of greenery which bursts out of the proscenium confines, a river.
This is a place where you wouldn’t want to venture, where bad things can happen, and the lower in society are trapped by the constant grind of industry. Sen, as a human, finds even the act of breathing puts her in danger.
Kanna Hashimoto gives Chihiro/Sen a lovely sense of curiosity, injustice, and wonder, while Kotaro Daigo gives Haku a dangerous edge. Romi Park’s Yubaba has Thatcherite vibes and a steely presence. All these roles are multi-cast, so you may see a different actor if you come to the show.
Aogaeru, the frog, is delightfully performed by Obata no Onilsan, whose grumbles and gripes steal scenes and add amusement. Sunao Yoshimura’s Chichiyaku is officious in his motivation of money.
This is a tight-knit company directed by John Caird (co-adapter with Maoko Imai). The orchestra at our performance was conducted by Erika Fukasawa. With seven main roles on rotating cast, Spirited Away will offer repeat attenders a chance to see some of Japan’s most celebrated performers.
Impressive puppets by Toby Olié, lighting by Jiro Katsushiba and sound by Koichi Yamamoto brings this weird world to life. Visually stunning and an emotional slow-boiler, this could be a contender for my show of the year so far.
*****
Spirited Away continues to 24 Aug 2024 at London Coliseum, with tickets here and at other outlets.
Image credit: Johan Persson