The award-winning stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s animated classic is heading back to the London Coliseum in spring 2028 as part of a major world tour - and groups can sign up now for priority ticket access.
The production is soon to embark on a worldwide tour, starting in Taipei this December before travelling to theatres across Japan, followed by runs in Toronto, Los Angeles, and finally arriving at the London Coliseum in March 2028.
The highly acclaimed stage adaptation of Spirited Away had its European premiere at the London Coliseum in 2024, where it was seen by over 300,000 people over its limited run of 17 weeks. Every single performance was sold out across two international runs between 2022 and early 2026, paving the way for this new leg.
It won Best New Play at the 2025 WhatsOnStage Awards and was nominated for four Olivier Awards including Best Set Design, Best Costume Design, Best Sound Design, and Best New Entertainment or Comedy Play.
A spokesperson for production company TOHO Co., Ltd said it was “deeply grateful for the opportunity to be welcomed back to London. This production made its world premiere in Tokyo in 2022, followed by sold-out success from London and Shanghai to Seoul.
“Through this journey, it has proven that the masterpiece by Hayao Miyazaki and Toshio Suzuki from Studio Ghibli, brought to life through John Caird’s masterful direction, resonates universally.
“As we embark on a grand world tour from December 2026 through 2028, it is our greatest joy to further share the excellence of Japanese performing arts with audiences worldwide.”
Bob Holland, executive producer at the London Coliseum, added: “We’re delighted that Spirited Away returns to the London Coliseum in spring 2028 following the extraordinary and sell-out success of their first run. This production was a huge hit with audiences of all ages and captures the magic of such a beloved Studio Ghibli classic.
“We look forward to welcoming audiences back for what promises to be the return of a breathtaking adaptation.”
What to expect from Spirited Away
A masterpiece of storytelling and stunning visuals, Spirited Away tells the enchanting tale of Chihiro who, while travelling to a new home with her family, stumbles into a world of fantastic spirits ruled over by the sorceress Yubaba. When her parents are turned into pigs and she is put to work in a magical bathhouse, Chihiro must use her wits to survive in this strange new place, find a way to free her parents, and return to the normal world.
Director Hayao Miyazaki’s animated feature film was released in 2001 and won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature Film in 2003. It was adapted for the stage by John Caird, co-adapted by Maoko Imai and features the original score by Joe Hisaishi.
Spirited Away features incredibly detailed puppets and artistic sets that bring the magical animated world and characters to life on stage. True to the original production, the play will be performed in Japanese with English subtitles.
Groups will be able to see Spirited Away at the London Coliseum from March to July 2028, with exact dates still to be confirmed. Tickets will be released for the London dates in early 2027.
Find out more and sign up for priority access at: spiritedawayonstage.com/london.
