The stage adaptation of Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away opened at Seoul Arts Center’s Opera House after runs in Tokyo, London and Shanghai. Directed by John Caird and originally produced by Toho in 2022, the play stays very close to the original anime’s story, dialogue and costumes while translating its world into analog theatrical techniques. Highlights include a 5-meter-tall Yubaba bathhouse on a 360-degree rotating stage, Noh-inspired staging for the bathing scenes, inventive set and elevator tricks, and extensive use of Joe Hisaishi’s original music—sometimes performed live by the characters. Dozens of characters are realized through elaborate masks and puppets; about 40 actors (plus an 11-member orchestra) double or triple roles and operate puppetry, with especially creative choreography when No-Face (Gaonashi) transforms into a giant creature. Many cast members from earlier international runs reprise their roles—Mone Kamishiraishi as Chihiro and Natsuki as Yubaba—delivering high visual and vocal fidelity to the anime. One downside for non-Japanese speakers is the placement of surtitles at the far sides and top of the auditorium, which can pull attention away from the stage; watching the film beforehand is recommended. (Noh: a form of traditional Japanese theater)
