Ghibli classics: Spirited Away by candlelight

About this event

Lose yourself in the spellbinding world of Spirited Away as the cherished soundtrack of Hayao Miyazaki’s iconic Studio Ghibli anime is performed live by a chamber orchestra. The enigmatic world of Spirited Away, Hayao Miyazaki’s Oscar-winning masterpiece and one of the most beloved works in the history of animation. First released in 2001, this Studio Ghibli classic follows the story of Chihiro, a young girl who finds herself in a mysterious spirit world, encountering unforgettable characters and learning courage, resilience, and compassion along the way. In the intimate surroundings of Kensington United Reformed Church, lit by a flicker of hundreds of candles, a small chamber orchestra will perform Joe Hisaishi’s iconic score — music that has become inseparable from the film’s magic. From the gentle wonder of One Summer’s Day to the wistful beauty of Reprise, each piece captures Miyazaki’s gift for blending the fantastical with the deeply human. Hayao Miyazaki, co-founder of Studio Ghibli, is celebrated worldwide for his hand-drawn storytelling, rich imagination, and timeless themes. His works — from My Neighbor Totoro to Howl’s Moving Castle — have touched generations, but Spirited Away stands as a defining achievement: a dreamlike tale of transformation, friendship, and the enduring power of hope. This is more than a concert — it’s a journey to a place where spirits whisper, trains glide across quiet waters, and memories linger in the air. This concert is part of a series of immersive musical experiences created by Red Events & Distribution Ltd., known for their exceptional cultural events in historic mansions, on scenic rooftops, in botanical greenhouses, and other atmospheric venues across the UK, Europe, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and beyond. Their repertoire includes candlelit concerts and fully immersive performances with video art and spatial sound design. Duration: 60 minutes (doors will open 30 mins prior to the scheduled start time and late entry is not permitted) Age restriction: 6+ Doors open at least 30 minutes before the concert. Out of respect for guests and performers, late entry may not be permitted. We cannot guarantee your original seats after the concert begins. About Mystery Ensemble Mystery Ensemble is a group of professional musicians performing unique programs on non-standard venues around the UK. Experience outstanding works from different eras, experimental music, tributes, and world soundtracks of films and series, as well as absolutely unique programs and immersive shows. All music presented in author’s arrangements. With the possibility of independent choice of the program, unexpected locations, and flexibility of the format, our team of professional musicians is inspired to bring their favorite music to life. Founded in 2021, our studio of contemporary music has grown rapidly, with over 40 shows in the UK in its first year of performing. Our founder, Almin Alexander, has devoted more than 12 years of his life to the music industry and the development of cultural initiatives around the world, working with many outstanding musicians and musical groups. The ensemble’s repertoire contains an incredible amount of music. Just look at some of the programs so dearly loved by our viewers: these are tribute concerts of such great composers as Ludovico Einaudi, Hans Zimmer, John Williams, Ólafur Arnalds, Joe Hisaishi, or the minimalists’ John Cage and David Lang, along with At the same time, the ensemble performs popular soundtracks from sensational TV shows and movies: Wednesday, The Young Pope, Harry Potter, a variety of Disney and Pixar films, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit saga, Spencer, Star Wars and others. There is also the unique music of Enigma, Enya, combined with neoclassical music, or world rock hits, and tributes to the legendary Michael Jackson, Queen and the Beatles. For lovers of the classics, the ensemble collection contains music by W.A. Mozart, J.S. Bach, L.V. Beethoven, R. Wagner, I. Strauss, P.I. Tchaikovsky, S.V. Rachmaninov, and all key composers — classics. And much more. Every month the studio releases new programs and updates the existing repertoire. For some projects, the team gathers as part of a chamber or small symphony orchestra. Join us and experience the creative energy and passion that drives our team to bring music to life in unforgettable ways! Programme A Road to Somewhere (2/07)    The Dragon Boy (2/12)    Always With Me (3/18)     Nighttime Coming (2/00)    Procession of Gods (3/00)    Gods (Image Album) (3/55)    The Sixth Station (3/42)    Sootballs (2/33)     Yubaba (3/30)     Kaonashi (No Face) (3/47)   The House at Swamp Bottom (1/29)    It's Hard Work (3/20)   Bathhouse Morning (2/02)    The Bottomless Pit (1/18)    The Stink Spirit (4/01)     White Dragon (Image Album) (3/33)   Reprise (4/53)   I'm Lonely, lonely (Image Album) (3/42)   Waltz of Chihiro (Image Album) (3/20)     Solitude (Image Album) (3/49)   One Summer's Day (4/24)    *The programme may be subject to changes