If you’re a Potterhead, you probably remember how your heart skipped a beat when Harry Potter and the Cursed Child was first announced. Mine definitely did. I couldn’t wait to see it in theaters, until I realized it wasn’t a movie. It was a stage play, with the script released as a book.
If you know me, you know I’m not much of a reader. My attention span is short, and it’s hard for me to sit still and focus on black text on a pale page. Somehow, though, I can scroll Instagram for hours, thanks to an endless supply of content. Guilty as charged. I’m part of the problem. So reading the script was never going to happen. I needed to see it.
From London to Seattle, 10 Years Later
The play premiered at London’s Palace Theatre in 2016. I had no idea when I’d make it to London, let alone get to see the show. Fast-forward 10 years to 2026, instead of keeping New York City as the show’s only U.S. home, the production went on a North American tour and came all the way to Seattle.
Not going was never an option. That’s how we ended up at Seattle’s historic Paramount Theatre for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. The best part is that I went with Abhi, who’s an even bigger Potterhead than I am. How so? He’s read the books, so I’ve turned him into my walking, talking reference library. 🤣
A Spoiler-Free Story Summary
I wanted to start my review with a little spoiler-free context. Recording and photography weren’t allowed during the show, so the only photos you’ll see here are of the stage and lobby. Cursed Child is a play, not a musical. It picks up 19 years after Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows and is written by Jack Thorne, based on an original story by J.K. Rowling, John Tiffany and Jack Thorne. It’s considered the eighth official story in the Harry Potter series.
The story follows two main characters: Harry’s middle child, Albus Severus Potter, and Draco’s son, Scorpius Malfoy. The story revolves around the two kids and their adventures that reminded me of the Chamber of Secrets movie, where Ron and Harry headed to Hogwarts on a flying Ford Anglia. It also returns to the events surrounding Cedric Diggory’s death. The play was originally performed in two parts. However, the touring production combines them into a single performance.
Do You Need to Watch the Movies First?
I’d recommend watching at least Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire for context. That said, I’ve seen plenty of reviews from people who enjoyed the play without watching any of the films. You don’t need to be an expert to have a good time, but knowing the story helps.
My Experience and Thoughts
The play was 3 hours long with a 30-minute intermission, and I didn’t mind that at all. In fact, I wish they slowed down at some parts and gave more context. Harry Potter is my favorite film series of all time, so every minute felt like reliving the nostalgia.
The first 40 minutes or so felt rushed because there was a lot of story to catch up on, and the play introduces many new characters connected to familiar ones. Since it’s set 19 years later, you’re constantly trying to connect the dots. Once the setup was out of the way, the pacing improved and the story settled in.
The effects were mind-blowing and easily my favorite part. The production uses the entire stage, and the magic looks real. Watching magic on a screen is one thing. Experiencing it live, like at Universal Studios, takes it to a completely different level. Plus, I enjoyed the story overall. I loved the friendship angle, the pressure of expectations, the learning curve, the mistakes and the redemption. It was heartwarming and fun to watch. I’d say it was absolutely worth it.
Seeing It in New York?
If you’re planning to see the show on Broadway, you could get a dream-come-true moment. Tom Felton, Draco Malfoy from the films, is playing Draco at New York’s Lyric Theatre through January 3, 2027, with a few scheduled absences. Check the cast schedule before you book if seeing him matters to you.
Overall, I highly recommend Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, whether you’re a die-hard fan or just Potter-curious. It’s nostalgic, magical and full of heart. Have you already seen the play? Tell me what you thought in the comments.
