Broadway and Studio Ghibli may seem like two disparate worlds at first glance, but they share a common core: the power to enthrall audiences with their stories. Studio Ghibli, the iconic Japanese animation studio, has been creating animated films for over three decades. These films, from My Neighbor Totoro to Spirited Away, are renowned for their distinctive art style, immersive world-building, and deeply human narratives.
In this blog, we’ll help fans of Ghibli films discover Broadway shows that resonate with the themes, characters, and atmospheres of their favorite movies. Whether you're a Broadway guru or a Ghibli enthusiast planning to dip your toes into the world of theatre, you will discover a Broadway show that feels like a kindred spirit to your favorite Ghibli film.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child & Spirited Away: “Once you've met someone, you never really forget them.”
Studio Ghibli's Spirited Away is a film that has left a strong mark on animation. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, Spirited Away follows the journey of Chihiro, a young girl ewho stumbles into a magical world. Chihiro's story is a compelling tale of self-discovery and courage as she navigates this strange new reality to rescue her parents.
Similarly fantastical, the Broadway hit Harry Potter and the Cursed Child has been a hit with audiences since its debut in 2018. The show is a continuation of the beloved story of Harry Potter and his friends, told from the perspective of Harry’s son, Albus. Led by director John Tiffany and writer Jack Thorne, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child explores themes of family, legacy, and the complexities of parent-child relationships.
Both Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and Spirited Away transport audiences to alternate realities filled with colorful, fantastical characters. They delve into the themes of self-discovery as the protagonists– Albus and Chihiro–discover their own strengths and form friendships that shape their journeys. Both narratives resonate with audiences through their exploration of personal growth, the importance of empathy, and the power of human connection, all set against the backdrop of richly imagined worlds that captivate the imagination.
Hadestown and Howl’s Moving Castle: “The best blaze burns the brightest when circumstances are at their worst."
Howl’s Moving Castle has stirred many hearts with its magical narrative and visuals. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, the film tells the story of Sophie, a young woman who embarks on an adventure after being cursed by a witch and transforming into an old woman. Her journey intertwines with that of Howl, a wizard living in a moving castle.
Meanwhile, Hadestown is a reimagining of the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, set in a post-apocalyptic world that’s part Depression-era New Orleans, part Hades. Directed by Rachel Chavkin, with music, lyrics, and a book by Anaïs Mitchell, Hadestown explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the power of hope in the face of adversity. Its folk and jazz-infused score, dynamic performances, and evocative set design have made it a standout Broadway show.
Both Hadestown and Howl’s Moving Castle explore the themes of love, transformation, and sacrifice. The similar aesthetic of the Broadway show and the Ghibli film is also worth noting. Hadestown depicts a world that’s both modern and ancient, with a distinct steampunk vibe, which is mirrored in Howl’s Moving Castle. Howl's castle, a hodgepodge of mechanical parts, is similar to the industrial underworld of Hadestown with its complex machinery and constant toil.
Hell’s Kitchen and Kiki’s Delivery Service: “We can fly with our spirit.”
Kiki’s Delivery Service is a film that charmed viewers with its heartwarming story. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, it tells the story of Kiki, a young witch who sets out on her own to establish a witch delivery service.
Similarly, Hell's Kitchen is a new Broadway show that tells the story of a young woman trying to make it in the NYC neighborhood of Hell’s Kitchen in the 1990s. With music and lyrics by Alicia Keys, Hell’s Kitchen explores themes of independence and the pursuit of dreams.
Both Hell’s Kitchen and Kiki’s Delivery Service spotlight a young woman's journey toward independence and self-discovery. In Hell’s Kitchen, the protagonist, Ali, navigates growing up with an overprotective mother, discovering her love for music and even falling in love. Meanwhile, in Kiki’s Delivery Service, Kiki leaves home at a young age, as per witch tradition, to carve a niche for herself. Despite initial struggles and bouts of self-doubt, Kiki's independence and resilience shine through. The stories of Ali and Kiki also emphasize the importance of community, with Ali finding camaraderie among the diverse denizens of the neighborhood who help her navigate her life and Kiki becoming a part of a seaside town's community.
The Lion King and Princess Mononoke: “You cannot change fate. However, you can rise to meet it if you so choose.”
Studio Ghibli's Princess Mononoke, directed by Hayao Miyazaki, tells the story of Ashitaka, a prince who gets caught in a conflict between the gods of a forest and the humans who consume its resources.
On Broadway, The Lion King mirrors similar themes. Directed by Julie Taymor, this show is a musical adaptation of Disney's animated film of the same name. With its music, stunning puppetry, and colorful costumes, it brings the African savannah to life on stage. The musical explores themes of leadership, responsibility, and the circle of life, set against the backdrop of the African wilderness.
With a young prince as their protagonists, The Lion King and Princess Mononoke share similar themes. While young Simba learns the importance of balance in the circle of life and the responsibilities that come with leadership to maintain harmony in the Pride Lands, Ashitaka strives to mediate between the forest gods and humans, emphasizing the importance of coexistence and respect for nature. These stories also share an epic scope and spiritual undertones. The Lion King's landscapes and the spiritual guidance Simba receives from his ancestors mirror the grand scale of Princess Mononoke's ancient forest and its spiritual inhabitants.
So, whether you're a seasoned theatregoer or a devoted Ghibli fan, there's always a new story to explore and a new world to dive into on Broadway. Remember that the beauty of storytelling lies in its ability to transcend boundaries, touching hearts and minds across the globe. So, keep exploring the magic of Broadway shows and Ghibli films. There's a whole world of stories waiting for you.