The wizarding world of spells, wizards, witches, magical schools and their students have been a beloved part of our lives for over two decades, thanks to J.K. Rowling’s iconic Harry Potter series. We have devoured the books, binge watched the films but it is only a lucky few that have been transported beyond the narrative we know so far and whisked into the latest story happening live on stage. Welcome to “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” – a spellbinding theatrical experience that has been capturing hearts and selling out theatres in London, New York, Melbourne, Hamburg, Toronto, and Tokyo since its debut.
Remember to enter our fantastic competition to win a pair of tickets to the London Show. Competition Ends 4th November. Good Luck!
We watched Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at The Palace Theatre, London. This is the only theatre in the world still showing the full story in two parts and which have recently announced a booking extension for the multi award-winning production to 29 September 2024. Tickets remain priced from £15 per part. In addition to the access performances currently on sale, this booking period includes a Relaxed Performance on 7th June, 2024.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child picks up right where the final book leaves off 19 years later, and it’s just as captivating, mysterious, and emotionally gripping. The story follows the next generation of witches and wizards, primarily focusing on Harry’s younger son, Albus Severus Potter, and his adventures at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
The brilliant mind behind this charismatic extension of the Harry Potter saga is Jack Thorne, who penned the script, with J.K. Rowling’s approval and involvement in the project. The production is a collaboration between Thorne, Rowling, and John Tiffany, who also directs the play. The result is a seamless continuation of the beloved story that transports us back into the world of magic.
The first scene takes us back to Platform 9¾ at King Cross, Harry (David Ricardo-Pearce) and Ginny (Polly Frame) who are now adults with their own children, are preparing to say goodbye to their second son Albus. Actors criss-cross the stage in muggle clothing as busy passengers. When all of a sudden and in perfect unison they all twirl and are changed into Hogwarts Robes! It is a fantastic moment and the audience appreciated it with happy gasps!
One of the highlights of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is the incredible stagecraft and the special effects that bring the magic to life. From apparition spells and wand duels to 20 foot magical creatures and enchanting scenery changes, the visual elements are awe-inspiring. You’ll witness characters disappear into thin air, objects levitate, and time itself being manipulated in some of the best lighting and sound effects we have ever seen in theatre.
These effects are a testament to the dedication of the production team and the actors, who seamlessly integrate their performances with the technical wizardry. The level of skill needed to perform not only hours of dialogue but also remembering endless stage direction and mix that in with the magical technical elements to boot is mind blowing! The combination of live theatre and live-action special effects creates a level of immersion that is unparalleled in the world of live entertainment.
In a world dominated by fast-paced and visually stimulating films, it’s a rare treat to encounter a theatrical experience that captivates your imagination quite so well as Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. We took 3 children with us with ages from 8 to 13 and they were quite literally spell-bound. All are fierce fans of the films and we were interested to see if nearly 5 hours of live theatre would enthral them or do quite the opposite.
If you’re a child or adult for that matter, accustomed to the rapid-fire action and dazzling special effects of today’s films, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child presents a delightful change of pace. This theatrical production doesn’t rely on CGI explosions or spectacles to create its magic. Instead, it invites you to engage your imagination in a way that movies can’t replicate.
The actors’ physicality and the seamless integration of choreography with the story add a layer of depth that can only be felt in live performance. It’s a reminder of how live theatre can be a truly visceral and an immersive experience, allowing you to feel the energy and tension in the room.
The show’s magnificence is not found in spoon-feeding you, the audience, every detail in extreme close-up, high definition but in the carefully choreographed movements of the actors, the ingenious stage props, and the beautifully written dialogue. It reminded us that, just like reading a book, theatre requires us to use our imagination to fill in the gaps, to see the magic unfold in our mind’s eye.
That is not to say that the incredible visual elements aren’t needed or appreciated! A full height of the stage, underwater scene was played out in front of our eyes and the children asked if it was somehow projected! I am sure elements were, but it does show that the visuals in this theatre show were more than holding up to its discerning young digital audience.
For a child accustomed to visual spectacle on the big screen, the intricate live illusions are a whole new level of wonderment. We were over-whelmed with whispers of “how do they even do that?”. Every time a character disappeared into thin air, an object levitates, or a magical creature appeared, we found ourselves on the edge of our seats, trying to figure out how these illusions are executed. And it’s not a Paul Daniels level of magic this is world class. As masters of distraction they made a whole bed that was ablaze disappear!
Another of the ingenious aspects of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is its use of stage props. Unlike film, which can rely on extensive CGI or huge sets, the play leans on cleverly designed and sparingly used props that evoke the magic of the Harry Potter universe. A few old trunks and luggage trolleys serve well as the impression of the Hogwarts Express.
With minimalistic props, the play trusts the audience to fill in the details with their imagination. The simplicity of the sets encourages viewers to focus on the characters, their stories, and the magic unfolding before their eyes. It’s a testament to the power of suggestion, allowing the audience to actively participate in creating the world they’re witnessing.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is not just about magic and adventure. At its core, it’s a story about friendship and family. The play delves deep into the complexities of the relationships between parents and children, friends, and even rivals.
The bond between Albus Potter (Ellis Rae) and Scorpius Malfoy (Harry Acklowe) is a highlight of the story. Their friendship is a source of strength, humour, and genuine emotion, and it’s a testament to the enduring themes of love and acceptance that have made Harry Potter so beloved. Never before have two moving staircases being glided about a stage have expressed such emotion!
As the audience you become deeply invested in the characters and the storyline, developing a connection that goes beyond the ordinary two-hour film. The extended runtime allows for a more comprehensive exploration of the characters and their development, making their trials and triumphs all the more meaningful. It did indeed hold the attention of the younger members of the audience with a run time of 2 hours 40 minutes for the first part and 2 hours 35 minutes for the second.
For fans who grew up with Harry, Hermione, and Ron, watching Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a nostalgic journey. The story is peppered with references to the original books and films, and the sight of familiar spells and references is enough to make your heart skip a beat. Without wishing to spoil anything I will say that two performances of Snape and Dumbledore had us by the heartstrings. Steve John Shepherd plays Draco Malfoy’s character wonderfully and has the look of the familiar Lucius Malfoy down to a T. The play pays homage to the past while forging ahead with new adventures, creating a exhilarating blend of old and new.
The choreography in the play is utterly mesmerizing. From cape swooshing to death eater marches, every segment had some visually stunning and memorable choreography. We also have to mention the show’s sound track which is laced with haunting and emotive music.
Some parts of the play are incredibly tense due to the script but intensified by the sheer talent of the actors. Harry played by David Ricardo-Pearce, did a great job of showing that earnest, serious and self-deprecating Harry we have come to know and love.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a triumphant return to the wizarding world. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just someone looking for an incredible day and night at the theatre, this production offers something for everyone.
So, whether you’re a child, an adult, Potter super fan, theatre fan or somewhere in-between, this play is a captivating experience that will transport you to a world where magic is real, and the boundaries between the stage and your imagination blur. In the grand tradition of Harry Potter, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child reminds us that magic is everywhere, and it’s waiting for us to discover it, not on a screen, but in the theatre.
Remember to enter our fantastic competition to win a pair of tickets to the London Show. Competition Ends 4th November. Good Luck!
