A Spirited Day in London: From Piercings to Performances

Morning Delights at Café Concerto

Our much-anticipated day began in the heart of London at Café Concerto, a spot that’s become a staple for us whenever we’re in the city. Nestled at Piccadilly Circus, it's perfect for people-watching and indulging in some truly comforting food. I went with an incredible Caesar salad—crisp, fresh, and just the right touch of creamy dressing, while Kelly enjoyed a perfectly cooked omelette, fluffy and packed with flavor. It was the ideal light start to a day packed with activities.

Adventure at Metalmorphosis

Next, we strolled over to Covent Garden with a particular mission in mind. I decided it was the perfect day to add a little edge to my look, so we headed to Metalmorphosis, where I got my last impulse piercing. Just like before, the service was impeccable—professional, clean, and just the right amount of encouragement to go through with a nose piercing. Walking out with a new piercing felt like renewing an old tradition, and it set a thrilling tone for the rest of our day.

A Hidden Gem at The Escapologist

Just across the street, we ducked into The Escapologist, famed for its hidden room behind a painting—a detail that makes every visit here feel like stepping into a secret world. The bar didn't just impress with its atmosphere; the mocktails were a highlight too. Delicious, inventive, and incredibly affordable, plus the air conditioning inside was a welcome respite from the summer heat outside.

Culinary Secrets at Bar Lina

Our walk continued into Soho where we visited an Italian deli known for its authentic handmade products. However, our true destination was through an unmarked door hiding a staircase leading to Bar Lina. This intimate cocktail bar serves up small plates alongside each round of drinks. We savoured a few plates of tasty nibbles—each bite perfectly complements our non-alcoholic drinks. It was an ideal pre-theatre stop, proving that even a sober bar crawl can be filled with excitement and flavour.

A Magical Evening: "Spirited Away" on Stage

The pinnacle of our day was the stage adaptation of "Spirited Away," the beloved Studio Ghibli film by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki. This iconic film, which has captivated audiences worldwide since its release in 2001, was transformed into a live theatrical performance that retained all the enchantment of the original animation.

Journey to the Stage

The journey of bringing "Spirited Away" to the stage was no small feat. Directed by John Caird, who is renowned for his work on productions like "Les Misérables," the play was first adapted for the stage in Tokyo before making its way to London. This adaptation involved collaborating closely with Studio Ghibli to ensure that the whimsical spirit and intricate detail of the original work were faithfully preserved. The result was a production that combined traditional Japanese theatrical techniques with modern technology to bring the animated world to life in a whole new medium.

The Production

Set design and costumes played a pivotal role in recreating the ethereal world of "Spirited Away." The stage was a fluid canvas that shifted seamlessly from the mundane to the mystical, mirroring the journey of the protagonist, Chihiro, as she navigates a world filled with spirits, witches, and mysterious creatures. Every costume was a work of art, intricately designed to reflect the unique characteristics of each spirit encountered in the film, from the enigmatic No-Face to the boisterous and lovable Kamaji and the formidable witch Yubaba.

The Performance

Performed in Japanese with English subtitles, the show offered a rich, immersive experience that respected the source material's cultural origins while making it accessible to an international audience. The actors brought a depth of emotion and physicality to their roles that animated characters could only suggest visually. The live performance added a layer of intimacy and immediacy to the story, making Chihiro’s emotional journey and growth even more poignant.

Audience Reaction

The theatre was filled with a mix of die-hard Ghibli fans and newcomers to Miyazaki’s world, all equally spellbound by the spectacle. The applause was thunderous, a testament to the show's ability to connect with audiences across cultural and linguistic barriers.

Reflecting on the Experience

As we walked out of the theatre, the magic of the evening still lingering, Kelly and I were reminded of the power of storytelling and the arts. "Spirited Away" on stage was not just a performance; it was an invitation to revisit our sense of wonder and explore new dimensions of a story we thought we knew. It was, without a doubt, a "Worth It Moment" that enriched our souls and deepened our love for Miyazaki’s visionary work.

Reflections on a Perfect Day

From gourmet bites to theatrical delights, our day was a testament to London's endless capacity to surprise and enchant. As we made our way home, we reflected on the perfect mix of spontaneous adventures and planned pleasures, making this not just another day out but a collection of moments that were truly worth it.