Junior Drama Production Casts Its Magic
From the moment the lights dimmed and the haunting whistle of the Hogwarts Express echoed through the auditorium, the audience was swept into the magical world of ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ with startling immediacy. Opening at the iconic Platform 9¾, the school production didn’t just pay tribute to J.K. Rowling’s beloved universe; it fully transported us there.
What followed was a spellbinding performance that balanced spectacle with heart. The storyline, focusing on a young Harry grappling with time travel in an attempt to save Cedric Diggory, was brought to life with depth, drama, and just the right touch of mischief. The question that hung over the theatre: Can the past be changed without disastrous consequences? was handled with real emotional weight, especially as the characters wrestled with the ripple effects of their choices.
The stagecraft was truly something to behold. From the dark, dystopian corridors of the Voldemort-dominated alternate timeline to the dazzling transformations of the stage into Hogwarts’ moving staircases, every visual moment was expertly crafted. One particularly clever moment was the staging of the Quidditch scenes; using simple, effective techniques and choreographed movement, the cast created the illusion of soaring brooms and high-stakes play with charm and ingenuity. It was a brilliant example of theatrical creativity triumphing over technical limitations.
The choreography, especially during the stylised time-turning scenes, was breath-taking. Dances flowed with magical energy, often blurring the lines between physical theatre and spell work. Each movement seemed charged with urgency and emotion, lending a rhythm to the storytelling that elevated the drama.
Among the standout performances were Seb Steadman, who brought layers of complexity and maturity to his role with striking poise, and Josh Tipple, whose presence and emotional range made every scene he was in resonate powerfully. Their chemistry on stage, especially during the show’s darker moments, was compelling and a true highlight of the production.
Credit must also be given to the swift and near-invisible work of the stage managers, who kept the action flowing effortlessly. Scene changes were fluid, props appeared as if by magic, and the entire backstage team deserves thunderous applause for maintaining such tight coordination.
Further enhancing the professionalism of the performance were some skilfully executed—and at times unsettling—lighting effects. Strobe-like bursts, contrasted with softer glows and gradually darkening tones, effectively supported the rapid transitions between scenes. These lighting choices added emotional depth and enriched the atmosphere without ever overpowering the action on stage.
The large cast brought an infectious energy that sustained the magic from start to finish. Whether portraying familiar Hogwarts students or figures from the alternate timeline, each cast member was clearly invested, delivering performances filled with passion and commitment. Their unity and enthusiasm lit up the stage and drew the audience into every magical twist and turn.
This production of ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ was a triumph—not only as a theatrical performance but as a reminder of how school productions, when done with heart, creativity, and dedication, can rival even the most professional of shows. A truly enchanting experience.
Mr Garrity is to be commended for his exceptional contributions as Director and Music Technician, bringing together technical precision and artistic insight to deliver a memorable production.
Mrs Natalie Davis and Mrs Deborah Earle, English Department
