Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Review
Walking into the Palace Theatre in Soho, London, momentarily prepares you for something magical ahead. Golden spiral staircases and grand marble pillars reveal a surprisingly intimate auditorium. This is the home to 2016s London Evening Standard Theatre Award winning play, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.
This two part performance with more than 30 cast members, unpredictable magic tricks and well-thought-out plot, is hypnotic for even those unfamiliar with the Harry Potter franchise.
J.K.Rowling's extraordinary mind once again unveils the supernatural Hogwarts world which is back at full force, with gob-smacking effects thrown in. Levitating brooms, wands spitting fire-bolts, moving staircases and teleporting, transports the audience into a dimension we have adored for 15 years.
Anthony Boyle, who plays Scorpius Malfoy, shines through with his quick wit and innocence, which is far from his family name's malicious nature.
However, amongst the illusions and Ron's memorable puns, the performance reflects a serious matter. We emphasise with grown-up Harry and how his child reputation affects his relationship with his son, Albus. Moments of guilt and the inability to communicate with his son gives the audience insight into a personal issue the Potter's face, showing the demons they conquer are not always in plain sight. The second half of the performance also becomes dark and sinister, reflecting the film series plus maintaining excitement and suspense.
It is apparent when watching this show that the characters are led majority by men. Roles such as Rose, Ron and Hermione's daughter, seem washed down in comparison to the heroic male figures. Most of the female characters are perceived as neurotic and scatty without real purpose in the script. This, however, is a minor detail in the spender that shines before you.
Getting lost in the 'wizarding world' and using your imagination to such an extent gives us an excuse to rem-inis in childhood memories with a splash of adult humour thrown in.
