As an NSTA representative, I had the pleasure of seeing an excellent school production of Harry Potter and The Cursed Child at Bedford School on the evening of Wednesday 26th November 2025. As the audience settled into their seats, an almost tangible hum of anticipation rippled through the theatre. That familiar, electric excitement you feel just before the lights dim is something every theatre-goer knows well, but on this particular evening, it seemed amplified, as though everyone in the room sensed that something truly magical was about to unfold.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, written by Jack Thorne and based on an original story by J.K. Rowling and John Tiffany, continues the legacy of the Harry Potter series. Since its debut in the West End in 2016 and on Broadway in 2018, it has garnered numerous accolades, including multiple Olivier and Tony Awards. Set 19 years after the events of the final Harry Potter book, the story follows Albus Potter, Harry’s son, who struggles with his legacy after being sorted into Slytherin at Hogwarts.
The stage burst immediately into life with a bustling ensemble conjuring the chaos and charm of a train station. Their movement created an atmosphere so rich and dynamic that within seconds, the audience was swept directly into the magical world. This opening tableau set the tone for what would become one of the production’s greatest strengths: the ensemble’s masterful ability to shape, colour, and define each setting with precision, physicality, and enchantment.
What stood out most was the sheer meticulousness of the production. Every detail – from the smallest gesture in a transition to the grandest illusion in a climactic moment – felt considered, polished, and woven expertly into the storytelling. The ensemble’s work was especially vital here. Their slick coordination allowed the leads the freedom to fully inhabit their characters, grounding the narrative in emotional truth even as the world around them shimmered with magic. Whether they were miming the juddering rhythm of a moving train, transforming the air with Quidditch, or manipulating puppetry to breathtaking effect, the ensemble’s contribution was nothing short of extraordinary. They didn’t just support the show; they were its heartbeat.Among the principal and supporting roles, there was a clear sense of pride and purpose in every performance, but several cast members deserve special recognition. Scorpius Malfoy was portrayed with sensitivity and nuance by Rory. His comic timing was impeccable, yet it was his ability to hold silence and space – those small, subtle moments of internal conflict – that truly elevated his portrayal. With every line delivery, he found the delicate balance between awkward humour and genuine vulnerability, making Scorpius one of the most compelling characters on stage. James brought a remarkable depth to Albus Potter, embracing the character’s frustrations, insecurities, and longing for identity with emotional honesty. His chemistry with Scorpius was heartfelt and sincere, giving the friendship a layered, believable resonance that drew the audience in time and time again. Adam’s performance as the Headmistress McGonagall was wonderfully commanding. His stern tone and imposing presence added a touch of traditional Hogwarts authority that elicited both nostalgia and admiration. Chloe’s Moaning Myrtle elicited audience laughter that resonated throughout the auditorium. Rahul delivered a thoroughly charming performance as Ron Weasley, engaging with effortless precision and a clear, nuanced understanding of the character. His comic moments were an absolute delight. He proved especially inventive during the romantic comedic sequences, earning genuine, hearty laughter from the audience. Hamish commanded the stage whether it was while he was playing Amos Diggory or Cedric Diggory. The transformation from old to young was spell binding and a joy to see using every aspect of physicality and vocality to truly portray the different characters so well.
The production also delivered moments of profound emotional impact, particularly in the scenes between Draco Malfoy (Oscar) and Harry Potter (Lukas). Their interactions offered a moving lesson in family, forgiveness, and the weight of legacy. Both actors brought such gravity to these exchanges – each line delivered with reflective depth – that the audience was visibly drawn into the inner turmoil of both characters. It was a testament to the show’s direction, and performance quality that these quieter, more introspective moments held as much power as the large-scale magical sequences. Throughout the evening, the relationships between characters provided a strong emotional backbone. Whether it was parent to child, friend to friend, or rival to rival, the dynamic interplay deepened the storytelling and gave audiences a richer understanding of each character’s motivations and vulnerabilities.
A surprising joy of the evening were the comedic moments woven cleverly throughout the performance. Sammy and Kian, as the trolley wizards, delivered scenes that were nothing short of delightful. Their characterisations were sharp, playful, and irresistibly funny – proof that no role within this production, no matter how small, lacked depth or intention. Their scenes offered bursts of levity that balanced the play’s darker emotional undertones beautifully.
In a production where movement was almost as important as dialogue, even the stage crew became part of the show’s visual tapestry. Their transitions were executed with flair and exuberance, with Joseph standing out in particular. These shifts, often choreographed to feel magical in themselves, added to the overall fluidity and enchantment of the performance.
All of these elements were tied together by staging that was not only inventive but deeply thoughtful. It was clear that the director considered every moment, every beat, and every transition with enormous care. The result was a production that built slowly but steadily to a sweeping crescendo in its final scene; a finale that left the audience breathless, reflective, and utterly transported.
The final message of “a better world” was a sentiment that landed heavily yet hopefully, reminding us that magic is not only something found in wands and spells, but in community, courage, compassion, and the belief that change is possible. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child delivered everything one could hope for from a theatrical journey; spectacle, heart, humour, and an unshakeable sense of wonder. A truly outstanding performance in every respect.
National School Theatre Awards
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