Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: Everything You Need to Know
It’s been over two decades since J.K. Rowling released the first Harry Potter book, but the franchise continues to captivate audiences worldwide. In 2016, the next generation of Hogwarts students made their debut in “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,” a two-part stage play co-written by Rowling, Jack Thorne, and John Tiffany. Since its premiere, the play has become a smash hit, selling out theaters in London, New York, and beyond. Here’s everything you need to know about “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.”
The Plot
The play picks up where the epilogue of the final Harry Potter book, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows,” left off. It follows Harry Potter, now an overworked Ministry of Magic employee, and his son Albus Severus Potter as they navigate a new threat to the wizarding world. Along the way, they encounter old friends and enemies, and learn important lessons about love, family, and the power of second chances.
The Cast
The original West End cast included Jamie Parker as Harry Potter, Sam Clemmett as Albus Severus Potter, and Poppy Miller as Ginny Potter. Other notable cast members included Anthony Boyle as Scorpius Malfoy, Alex Price as Draco Malfoy, and Noma Dumezweni as Hermione Granger. The Broadway cast featured many of the same actors, including Parker, Clemmett, and Dumezweni.
The Production
“Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” is a two-part play, with each part running around two and a half hours. It features elaborate set designs, special effects, and original music by Imogen Heap. The play has been praised for its innovative staging, which includes everything from flying broomsticks to time-turners.
The Reception
“Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” has received mixed reviews from critics and fans alike. Some have praised the play for its emotional depth and strong performances, while others have criticized it for its convoluted plot and inconsistent characterization. Despite the mixed reviews, the play has been a commercial success, grossing over $2 billion worldwide.
The Controversies
Like any popular work of fiction, “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” has not been without its controversies. One of the biggest controversies surrounding the play has been the casting of a black actress, Noma Dumezweni, as Hermione Granger. Some fans were outraged by this casting choice, arguing that Hermione was always described as white in the books. Others, however, praised the decision as a step towards greater diversity in the entertainment industry.
The Future
As of now, there are no plans to turn “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” into a movie. However, the play is still going strong in theaters around the world, and new productions are planned for Germany, Australia, and San Francisco. Whether you’re a die-hard Harry Potter fan or just curious about the next generation of Hogwarts students, “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” is a must-see theatrical event.