We’re seeing a lot more live-action versions of anime lately, and the way these stories are brought to life in the real world is changing. Series like One Piece have already been very successful, and live-action movies based on Mobile Suit Gundam, One-Punch Man, and Naruto are planned. Japan has been particularly creative in adapting anime classics, and now it’s Studio Ghibli‘s turn. While Princess Mononoke hasn’t been made into a live-action movie yet, a new take on the beloved story is coming this summer.
This summer, a live-action kabuki adaptation of Princess Mononoke is coming to the stage! To build excitement, the production has revealed its cast and some new details. Starting July 3rd at the Shinbashi Enbujo Theatre in Tokyo, Japan, actors Danko Ichikawa, Kazutaro Nakamura, and Tokizo Nakamura will play Ashitaka, San, and Lady Eboshi. The production is described as an epic tale of the conflict between humans and nature, and the desire for them to live together peacefully. It’s expected to be a groundbreaking new take on the classic story, and you can see a first look at the cast below.
Ghibli: Kabuki & Beyond
Kabuki is a traditional Japanese art form where actors often wear white makeup and perform silently, and historically, all roles are played by men. This upcoming Kabuki adaptation of Princess Mononoke isn’t the first time a Studio Ghibli film has been staged this way – Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind also had a Kabuki production. While neither production is currently scheduled for release in North America, it highlights the growing popularity and financial success of live-action adaptations. Hopefully, we’ll be able to see more of these unique performances in Western countries soon.
I’m so excited to see Studio Ghibli’s work reaching the stage! While Kabuki is amazing, Spirited Away on Broadway was a huge deal – it really captured the magic of Chihiro’s story and even ended up on Hulu! It’s fantastic because for a long time, live performances of anime were mostly limited to Japan. But things are finally changing here in North America! We’re starting to see more and more shows like Death Note and Attack on Titan make their way over, and I’m hoping this trend continues – it’s a dream come true for anime fans like me!
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2026-05-14 20:10