One of Studio Ghibli’s most beloved films is getting another big-screen moment. Spirited Away: Live on Stage is returning to movie theaters across Los Angeles this October as part of Studio Ghibli Fest 2026.
The special theatrical event brings the acclaimed Japanese stage adaptation of Hayao Miyazaki’s Oscar-winning animated classic to the screen, complete with elaborate sets, musical numbers and spectacular puppetry.
Even better, moviegoers can see two different filmed performances on separate dates, featuring two actresses in the iconic role of Chihiro.
What is Spirited Away: Live On Stage?
Directed and adapted by Tony Award winner John Caird, known for Les Misérables, the production is the first-ever stage adaptation of Miyazaki’s Spirited Away.
The live show transforms the magical world of the animated film into an elaborate theatrical production, using dazzling sets, captivating musical numbers and wondrous puppets to bring its beloved characters to life.
The cast also includes Mari Natsuki, who returns to the roles of Yubaba and Zeniba after voicing the characters in the original animated film, alongside voice actor Romi Park.
When is it showing in L.A.?
The filmed stage production will screen at select L.A.-area theaters on October 1 and October 8, 2026.
- October 1: Kanna Hashimoto as Chihiro
- October 8: Mone Kamishiraishi as Chihiro
Both performances were filmed during the production’s acclaimed 2022 run at Tokyo’s historic Imperial Theatre.
Where to watch
The special screenings will take place at 10 L.A. County movie theaters, with the same theater lineup on both October 1 and 8:
- Cinemark Baldwin Hills Crenshaw and XD — 4020 Marlton Avenue, Los Angeles
- Regal Edwards Alhambra Renaissance — 1 East Main Street, Alhambra
- Regal Edwards South Gate — 8630 Garfield Avenue, South Gate
- Regal Paseo — 300 East Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena
- Cinemark Downey and XD — 8840 Apollo Way, Downey
- Cinemark Carson and XD — 20700 South Avalon Boulevard, Carson
- Regal Edwards Cerritos — 12761 Towne Center Drive, Cerritos
- Regal Edwards Long Beach — 7501 East Carson, Long Beach
- Regal Edwards West Covina — 1200 Lakes Drive, West Covina
- Regal La Habra — 1351 West Imperial Highway, La Habra
When: October 1 and October 8, 2026
