Imagine the spells, potions, and wizardry of the world of Harry Potter performed live before your eyes. Well, that’s exactly what happens during the Broadway play Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the Lyric Theatre. The play itself is 5 hours and 15 minutes long, broken into two parts: one matinee and one evening performance. However, the length shouldn’t discourage you. Right from the beginning, the audience is immersed into another world filled with wand-waving and levitation. You’re lost in this magical world and by the end, you’ll wish it had never ended. 

One of the main messages of the play is to “Keep the Secrets.” The cast and crew will never reveal how even the slightest mind-boggling effect was done, leaving you guessing and awestruck all the same. Every spell and incantation is performed flawlessly, and even the scene changes include a little magical moment, leaving the mystical flow undisrupted. Furthermore, the story continues on what the books and movies began 19 years into the future. Harry and Ginny are sending their youngest son, Albus, off to Hogwarts, while Hermione and Ron are also sending off their daughter, Rose. While on the train Albus meets Scorpius Malfoy, an outcast due to his mysterious heritage, and based on their families’ history, trouble is bound to ensue. 

Throughout the play, you forget where the magical world ends and the real world begins. Between the music, sets, effects, costumes, and most importantly, the story, anyone can forget that they’re in a Broadway theatre and instead be transported to Hogwarts, King’s Cross, and the Ministry of Magic. Harry Potter fan or not, the way the story and show is designed allows for all to enjoy and appreciate magic. You’ll be shouting “Gryffindor Pride!” and “Hogwarts Forever!” by the end of Part 1. So bring your robes, wands, and owls, and prepare to step into the Wizarding World as it is performed live on stage in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.