My Neighbour Totoro

This is a truly remarkable show—one that effortlessly blends breathtaking visuals, masterful storytelling, and deeply immersive performances. It’s rare to find a production that fires on all cylinders, but this one delivers in every possible way. From direction to design, from movement to music, everything has been crafted with precision, care, and an undeniable sense of magic.

Let’s start with the direction. Phelim McDermott’s work here is nothing short of flawless. Every moment is thoughtfully staged, every transition seamless, and every emotional beat hits exactly as intended. There’s a delicate balance between the grand spectacle and the intimate moments, and McDermott navigates this beautifully, ensuring that both the fantastical and human elements feel equally significant. The show never feels overwhelming or overly busy—every visual, every movement, every performance has purpose, and that’s a testament to truly outstanding direction.

The movement, crafted by You-Ri Yamanaka, is equally flawless. The choreography is fluid and organic, enhancing the story in ways that feel both natural and deeply intentional. It’s not movement for the sake of movement—every step, every gesture, every shift in energy serves to deepen the emotional core of the show. The precision and grace in the physical performances are mesmerising, and they contribute immensely to the immersive world-building that makes this production so transportive.

Tony Gayle’s sound design is flawless—every element is perfectly balanced, from the dialogue to the ambient noise, ensuring that every sound contributes to the overall atmosphere without overpowering the performers. Nicola T. Chang’s sound effects and soundscapes add another layer of brilliance, creating a rich auditory experience that immerses the audience completely. The subtle details—wind rustling through trees, the hum of a magical presence—are all so precisely placed that they feel like an extension of the world itself rather than mere technical additions. It’s sound design at its absolute best.

Lighting design by Jessica Hung Han Yun is nothing short of spectacular. Every scene is illuminated in a way that enhances its mood, from the soft glow of a dreamlike moment to the stark contrast of a dramatic reveal. The way the lighting interacts with the set and the projections is pure artistry. It never feels gimmicky or distracting—rather, it feels like a natural and essential part of the storytelling. The use of shadows, in particular, adds a depth and texture that further enriches the visual splendour of the show.

Speaking of visual splendour, Finn Ross and Andrea Scott’s video design is flawless. The projections are seamlessly integrated into the production, working in perfect harmony with Tom Pye’s stunning set design. Rather than feeling like an added element, the video design becomes an extension of the physical world on stage. The transitions between locations and the environmental shifts are all enhanced by the masterful use of projection. It’s the kind of design that doesn’t just support the production—it elevates it to new heights.

Tom Pye’s set design itself is a marvel of creativity and ingenuity. There’s a sense of wonder embedded into every aspect of the set, from the smallest details to the grandest reveals. The moving stage borders are a particularly clever touch, creating a dynamic sense of space and framing the action in a way that feels both intimate and expansive. The front curtain alone is packed with surprises, setting the tone for a show that delights in the unexpected. And then there’s the main house—a visually striking centrepiece that feels alive in its own right. When it begins to come apart, revealing hidden tricks and transformations, it’s nothing short of breathtaking. The integration of trees and natural elements adds a sense of organic beauty, while the incorporation of the live band into the set is another stroke of genius, allowing the music to feel like a living, breathing part of the world rather than an external addition.

Costume design by Kimie Nakano is, unsurprisingly, flawless. Every character is brought to life with costumes that feel authentic, expressive, and entirely in tune with the production’s aesthetic. The designs are both practical and whimsical, capturing the spirit of each character while also allowing for ease of movement and transformation. The costumes play a crucial role in storytelling, subtly reinforcing character arcs and emotional shifts through colour, texture, and design.

And then, of course, there’s the puppetry—one of the most stunning aspects of the entire production. Basil Twist’s puppetry design and direction are nothing short of flawless excellence. There are so many puppets in this show, each one a masterful creation. The level of artistry and technical precision that has gone into bringing these creatures to life is astounding. Totoro’s first entrance is a true showstopper—an awe-inspiring moment of pure theatrical magic that leaves the audience breathless. And then, of course, there’s a certain bus’ first entrance, which is equally spectacular. Every puppet, from the largest to the smallest, moves with an incredible sense of life and personality. They aren’t just props—they are the characters, and they command the stage in a way that is utterly captivating.

Of course, a show this extraordinary would be nothing without an exceptional cast, and this one is packed with talent. Victoria Chen and Ami Okumura Jones deliver incredible performances, bringing depth, warmth, and authenticity to their roles. Their chemistry with Phyllis Ho and Dai Tabuchi is absolutely wonderful, creating relationships that feel real and deeply engaging. And while the entire cast is phenomenal, special mention must be given to Ai Ninomiya, whose breathtaking voice adds an extra layer of magic to an already spectacular production. The casting is spot-on across the board, with every performer contributing to the show’s success in a meaningful way.

This show is a triumph in every possible way. It is a breathtaking spectacle, a deeply emotional journey, and an absolute masterclass in theatrical storytelling. Every element—from the direction to the design, from the performances to the puppetry—works in perfect harmony to create something truly unforgettable. It’s a rare and special experience, one that transports its audience to a world of wonder, magic, and heartfelt emotion.

Not all productions achieve this level of excellence. Some shows have strong individual components but struggle to bring them together into a cohesive whole. This is not one of those shows. Here, everything clicks. Every creative decision, every technical element, every performance feels meticulously crafted and deeply considered. It’s a production that understands the power of theatre—the ability to create something that feels bigger than life, that sparks joy, that leaves a lasting impression.

If you have the chance to see this show, do not miss it. It is a once-in-a-lifetime theatrical experience, a true testament to the magic of live performance. Whether you’re a longtime theatre lover or someone stepping into this world for the first time, this production will leave you in awe. Flawless in every way, it sets a new standard for what theatre can be.