The Spirited Away stage show looks incredible in new photos

The new theatrical production of Hayao Miyazaki’s beloved classic Get Spirited AwayThe production is in its final stages, with new photographs showing the stunning results. This play was directed by Les MisérablesJohn Caird, honorary associate director of the Royal Shakespeare Company, is a Toho Stage employee who celebrates its 90th birthday in 2022.

The play is on display at Tokyo’s Imperial Theater from March 29 to July 1, before moving on to Japan. But if you’re unable to make the journey to Japan, however, closer looks at the gorgeous puppets and sets have been released to the public. The fantastical animals in the pictures are all here. Get Spirited Away comes to life courtesy of puppet designer and builder Toby Olié.

Chihiro, Chihiro the heroine Get Spirited Away, is played by two actresses in Toho’s production: Kanna Hashimoto, in her stage debut, and Mone Kamishiraishi. Many of these roles have a double cast. Kotaro Daigo, Hiroki Mura both portray River spirit Haku. Meanwhile the actresses behind Yubaba and Zeniba, the twin witches, are Romi Park and Mari Natsuki — the latter who also voiced the characters in the original film.

chihiro in the giant bath tub in the spirited away stage production

yubaba in the spirited away stage production

The photos recreate some of the movie’s most iconic moments, from Haku comforting Chihiro among the flowers to Chihiro riding the bus with No-Face. This is all done after making adjustments to the stage. The lush flowers bushes represent actors, with blooms and other decorations. Chihiro, however, is not covered by a sheet.

The adaptation of the story was made public in 2021 with the blessing and support of Hayao Miyazaki.

“We, Hayao and I, both liked John’s vision; he is a person we can trust,” said Miyazaki’s longtime producer partner Toshio Suzuki in a statement. Toho intends to expand the reach of the play in Asia and Europe once the Japan tour ends.