London is transported to an otherworldly realm in John Caird and Maoko Imai’s incarnation of Hayao Miyazaki’s classic 2001 film Spirited Away. Opening hot off the end of Miyazaki’s My Neighbor Totoro, this is the second adaptation of a Studio Ghibli film to grace London’s West End. The Japanese-language production features English subtitles, which are sadly inconveniently placed around the auditorium. It is transferring to the original Japanese cast, who enjoyed a sold-out run in Japan that is being echoed in London.

Spirited Away follows the journey of Chichiro, a young girl who, with her parents, gets trapped in the spirit world. It’s here that she sets out on a quest to save her parents from Yubaba’s curse, which has transformed them into pigs. Chihiro was exquisitely bought to life by Kanna Hashimoto, who is one of four actors who share the demanding role. Bringing a youthful spirit to Chichiro,

Immersing themselves into the productions’ creativity is the exquisite, precise ensemble, most of who are reprising their roles from the original Japanese production. It’s evident throughout that the company is the backbone, faultlessly switching its physicality from that of a person to a creature. Due to the demanding nature of the show and a 3-hour runtime, they rotate the leading roles. For our performance, Mone Kamishiraishi was Chihiro/Sen; she embodied the emotions perfectly and was instantly likable, making the audience root for her. Her performance is not to be taken lightly, the stamina it took to remain focused at all times on stage is a true testament to how gifted of an actor she is and well deserved of a standing ovation. Kotaro Daigo’s turn as Haku was magnetic, he had unbelievable control physically. Transforming into and out of dragon form, which easily could have been mediocre. Yet, Daigo’s graceful movements and Shigehiro Ide’s serene choreography create a gorgeous moment that is a standout scene. Ide’s astonishing choreography, gives each character their own distinct style of movement. Allowing each actor/character their own identity and personality trait. His choice of slow, slick movement for no-face, played by Hikaru Yaman, was equally captivating and hauntingly exquisite. Creating a strong sense of uneasiness every time no-face was present, yet I found myself drawn to this almost voiceless spirit. Yaman gave a standout performance.

Miyazaki’s mystical adventure transports the audience into a fantastical world of ghouls, monsters, and creatures. With the help of Jon Bausor’s elaborate set design, involving a revolving central piece, he cleverly used up the vast space the London Coliseum has to offer. Bausor’s intricate detailing leaves little to the imagination and creates an eccentric home for Toby Olié’s 50 playful puppets. Each has been meticulously crafted to show each creature’s eccentricity. Combining the set and puppetry, they create an art form that is a feast for the eyes. The ambitious feat of bringing the world created by Miyazaki in the Oscar winning film to life; never losing the originality of the original source material. Partnered with Miyazaki’s ingenious writing, it means in the midst of the awe-inspiring spectacle created, we never lose sight of the true meaning of the story: friendship, family, and most importantly, self-identity.

In the midst of the chaotic narrative, is Joe Hisaishi’s gorgeous original score that enhances the experience; filling the auditorium with a wave of tranquility which elevates one’s experience. Especially for me, hearing Hisaishi’s music live was a privilege. The complex score is masterfully tackled by a collective of immensely talented musicians: Jonathan Lee, Emma Owens, Nerys Richards, Nick Walsh, Theo Jamieson, Julian Poole, Jack Reddick, Olivia Fraser, Elise Campbell, Seb Philpott, Adrian Hallowell, and Keiichiro Koga. Who are conducted by three alternative conductors: Erika Fukasawa, Tsukasa Nagahama, and Kazuhiro. Together they beautifully master the score, creating a melodic story throughout – so that if I closed my eyes I could visualise what was happening.

Yes, Spirited Away could confuse someone who is unfamiliar with the original film. But I offer all the audience a form of escapism, welcoming people of all ages into something truly astonishing. But it is shown that this is a show made entirely out of love!

Spirited Away, which is currently enchanting the West End, is playing at the London Coliseum until August 24.