If you’ve ever wanted to run through the fields with Totoro or fly over the ocean with Kiki, your childhood dreams are about to get a major orchestral upgrade.
Get ready to get hit right in the feels because Film Concerts PH is bringing the whimsical, tear-jerking, and absolutely magical world of Studio Ghibli to Manila. The Symphonic World of Studio Ghibli is officially happening at The Theatre at Solaire from July 31 to August 2, 2026, and we are already manifesting our tickets!
A Celebration of 70 Years of Friendship
This isn’t just any concert—it’s a massive cultural milestone. Presented with The Japan Foundation, Manila, this event is an official commemorative highlight for the Philippines-Japan Friendship Year 2026.
Marking 70 years of diplomatic ties between our two countries, the concert celebrates the theme: “Weaving the Future Together: Peace, Prosperity, Possibilities.” It’s also the perfect follow-up to Studio Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki’s 2024 Ramon Magsaysay Award.
Spirited Away (2001) | Howl’s Moving Castle (2004) | Photo: ghibli.jp
83 Musicians, One Iconic Sound
Prepare to be goosebump-level impressed. We’re talking about an 83-piece Filharmonika Orchestra led by none other than the maestro himself, Gerard Salonga.
The purely orchestral program will dive deep into the genius of composer Joe Hisaishi. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, these melodies are the literal soundtrack of our hearts.
Here’s what to expect:
- The Whimsy: Take a trip to the moving castles of Howl’s Moving Castle.
- The Wonder: Wander through the bathhouses of Spirited Away.
- The Heart: Relive the adventures of My Neighbor Totoro (featuring special narration!).
- The Magic: Fly high with the upbeat tunes of Kiki’s Delivery Service.
My Neighbor Totoro (1988) and Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989) | Photo: ghibli.jp
Guests are highly encouraged to come in themed attire inspired by their favorite Ghibli films. Imagine the IG-worthy photos in the Solaire lobby!
There will be four shows across three days, so you have plenty of chances to catch the magic:
- July 31: 8:00 PM
- August 1: 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM
- August 2: 2:00 PM
View the seat map here:
Want to save some extra cash for merch? UnionBank Credit and Debit Cardholders get an exclusive 10% discount on Tiers A, B, and C during the pre-sale from April 24 to 27, 2026!
For the rest, public ticket sales go live on April 28, 2026, at 12:00 PM via TicketWorld.com.ph. You’ll want to be quick with this one!
Are you excited to experience the magic of Hisaishi and Miyazaki live? Tag your Ghibli barkada in the comments! ✨
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