Next week marks the beginning of Studio Ghibli Fest at The Byrd. Grab some popcorn, wait for the theater's historic organ to welcome you + immerse yourself in an animated celebration of scenery, whimsy, and one-of-a-kind storytelling.

What is Studio Ghibli?

If you’re unfamiliar, Studio Ghibli is a Japanese animation studio best known for movies like "Spirited Away," "My Neighbor Totoro," "Ponyo," and more.

The studio overlays the curious nature of childlike wonder with sophisticated themes, like existentialism and environmentalism, making the films engaging for children + adults alike.

"My Neighbor Totoro" was first released in 1988. | Photo via GKIDS and Studio Ghibli

Which film(s) should you see?

We’ve compiled a list of all the Studio Ghibli showings this week — with tickets ranging from $5 to $9. Plus, we've added some fun + spoiler-free clues to help you choose.

Pro tip: If you’re with a little one, catch one of the matinee screenings for the English dub — the rest of the films will be screened in original Japanese.

“Howl’s Moving Castle” | Monday, March 31 | 7 p.m.
Wizardry
Iconic earrings
Trinkets

“Ponyo” | Tuesday, April 1 | 7 p.m.
(English dubbed) | Saturday, April 5 | 10 a.m.
A quirky goldfish
Liam Neeson (English dubbed)
Your next ramen recipe

“My Neighbor Totoro” | Wednesday, April 2 | 7 p.m.
(English dubbed) | Sunday, April 6 | 2 p.m.
Trees
A cuddly creature
More trees
(Big forest vibes)

“Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind” | Thursday, April 3 | 7 p.m.
Post-apocalypse
“Dune"
Big bugs

"Spirited Away" | Friday, April 4 | 7 p.m.
Spirit-world
Public transit
Helpful soot particles

“Kiki’s Delivery Service” | Saturday, April 5 | 7 p.m.
Witches
Baked goods
Childhood crushes
(Bonus: a talking cat)

“The Boy and the Heron” | Sunday, April 6 | 7 p.m.
Grief
Truth vs. lies
A fantastical quest

The Byrd Theatre is a common venue for these festivals. | Photo by RICtoday