Spirited Away Stage Adaptation Captivates Audiences in Seoul
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Published: 2026/01/07 10:25:25
Hayao Miyazaki’s beloved animated masterpiece, Spirited Away, has transitioned to the stage, currently enchanting audiences at the Seoul arts Center Opera Theater. The production, which has already enjoyed triumphant runs in japan, London, and Shanghai, brings the fantastical world of Chihiro to life through a combination of puppetry, elaborate stagecraft, and live orchestral music.
From Film to Stage: A Global Journey
spirited Away, released in 2001, quickly became a critical and commercial success, winning the Best Animated Feature award at the 2003 Academy awards [IMDb]. The story follows Chihiro, a young girl who enters a world of spirits and must navigate a strange and often perilous realm to save her parents. The stage adaptation, directed by John Caird (known for his work on Les Misérables), aims to capture the magic and wonder of the original film.
The production premiered in Japan in 2022, selling out all performances. Following its success,it toured to Nagoya in 2023 and embarked on a nationwide encore tour in Japan in 2024 before traveling to London’s West End and shanghai. CJ ENM is presenting the production in Korea [Wikipedia].
Bringing Miyazaki’s Vision to Life
Director John Caird expressed both excitement and initial apprehension about adapting Miyazaki’s work. He noted the challenge of translating the film’s visual imagination to the stage, stating that the fantastical creatures and environments required a significant leap of imagination from both the performers and the audience.
the production team overcame logistical hurdles,including the COVID-19 pandemic,by utilizing remote collaboration tools.Despite the challenges, Caird emphasized the power of the story and the dedication of the creative team, stating that “it wouldn’t be that difficult for a girl to fly on the back of a dragon.”
Caird highlighted Miyazaki’s unique storytelling approach, noting that the director relies more on visual imagery than dialogue. “He put down the pen,picked up the brush,and drew the entire story,” Caird explained,emphasizing the importance of accepting the work as an image rather than a text.
Preserving Japanese culture
The production also prioritizes the preservation of traditional Japanese elements. Caird explained that the story is deeply rooted in Shinto religion and Japanese bathhouse culture. The stage design incorporates elements of Noh theater, including a rotating stage, to create a dynamic and immersive experience for the audience. Influences from Kabuki and Sumo wrestling are also present in the design.
Cast and Creative Team
The role of Chihiro is being played by Monet Kamishiraishi and Rina kawaei. Mari Natsuki reprises her role as Yubaba and zeniba, characters she originally voiced in the animated film. The production features music by Joe Hisaishi,performed live by an 11-member orchestra.
Maoko Imai, who co-wrote the adaptation alongside John Caird, emphasized the importance of maintaining the Japanese character of the story and utilizing Japanese actors. Imai and Caird are married, and she playfully acknowledged the unique synergy of their collaboration.
Audience Reception and Future performances
kamishiraishi shared her excitement about performing in Seoul, noting that audience reactions vary from city to city. She expressed her commitment to bringing a fresh and compelling portrayal of Chihiro to Korean audiences.
Spirited Away is playing at the Seoul Arts Center Opera Theater until March 22nd. The production promises a captivating experience for fans of the original film and newcomers alike, offering a unique and immersive journey into the enchanting world of Hayao Miyazaki.