Filmed Spirited Away Stage Show Will Arrive in US Cinemas in 2023

Described as having dazzling sets, captivating musical numbers, and wondrous puppets of beloved characters, the adaptation is directed by Tony Award-winner John Caird (Les Misérables) and will feature two filmed versions each with a different cast.

The show's acclaimed 2022 run at Tokyo’s historic Imperial Theatre featured both Kanna Hashimoto and Mone Kamishiraishi as Chihiro, and the stage show was filmed twice with each of them leading. 

The stage show will have a US theatrical release in spring 2023, with an expected streaming and home media deal coming later in the year.

Character actor Mari Natsuki, who voiced the sorceress Yubaba and her twin sister Zeniba in the original motion picture, returns to her original role, accompanied by voice actor Romi Park. 

“We are thrilled to offer this unique opportunity for Studio Ghibli fans in America to experience the stage production that wowed Japanese press and audiences last year,” said GKIDS’ President David Jesteadt in the official press release.

“This imaginative stage adaptation by the legendary John Caird, featuring two wonderful performances by lead actors Kanna Hashimoto and Mone Kamishiraishi, helps bring to life one of the greatest films of all time in a dazzling new way.”

While traveling to their new home, Chihiro and her family stumble into a world of fantastic spirits ruled over by the sorceress Yubaba. When her parents are turned into pigs and she is put to work in a magical bathhouse, Chihiro must use her wits to survive in this strange new place, find a way to free her parents, and return to the normal world.