The James Nederlander Theatre in Chicago has become a key venue in the North American theatre landscape. In “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” the stage becomes a portal into the Wizarding World with incredible set design, effects and performances from a strong cast of actors.
In the following article, we’ll give you the complete guide to this exciting, must-see production. We’ll explain the narrative, production and why this has become one of the most popular plays in modern theatre.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Tickets
Play summary
“Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” is written by Jack Thorne with contributions from J.K. Rowling and John Tiffany. It’s a sequel to the worldwide, bestselling book series “Harry Potter”. Set 19 years after the final novel (Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows), it follows the story of Harry Potter’s second son – Albus Severus Potter, as he arrives at Hogwarts and begins his own story of magic and discovery.
The play premiered in 2016 at London’s Palace Theatre. After receiving roaring praise from the West End, it soon transitioned to North America. First appearing on Broadway, the play has now made its way to other theatres in North America, including the storied James Nederlander Theatre in Chicago.
What is the story of this play?
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a way for Harry Potter fans to step back into the Wizarding World and discover the fate of the next generation. Although Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows saw the defeat of infamous villain Lord Voldemort, this play aims to expand the world and takes fans into a story. It hops through different timelines and extends the story of the three main characters – Harry, Ron, and Hermione.
The story begins where the final novel left off, seeing Albus Severus Potter (second son of Harry Potter) starting his first year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Albus expects to be placed in the house of Gryffindor, like his Father and older brother, but he is instead placed in Slytherin. This causes a rift between him and his family and sparks an unlikely friendship with the son of Draco Malfoy – Scorpius.
The story then spans several years, as Albus struggles to fit into Hogwarts and live up to his father’s name. However, dark forces are working behind the scenes, eventually sending the boys back in time with the use of “Time-Turners” as they attempt to change the past. It causes a chain of events that leads to a direct confrontation with evil.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child was released in book form at the same time as the play’s first performance and received positive reviews from critics. The story is controversial among some Potter fans, due to its extension of the initial story and time-hopping narrative. The main themes of the Cursed Child include alienation, generational ties, and coming-of-age.
About the author
Jack Thorne wrote the play, based on a story created by himself, J.K. Rowling and John Tiffany. Jack Thorne is a British writer who has been involved in many plays, movies, and TV Shows. He’s best known for his work on this play, but also has writing credits on Skins (2007-09), Enola Homes (2020), and the television adaptation of His Dark Materials (2019-2022).
Jack Thorne used his prowess and years of writing experience to create a modern jaunt into the Wizarding World. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is still, however, a story that stems from the mind of J.K. Rowling. While she isn’t credited as writing the play line for line, the story is hers and fits into the wider canon of the Harry Potter franchise.
About the 2024 North American Tour
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child has appeared in several theatres across the world, including the West End, Broadway, Melbourne, San Fransisco, Hamburg, Toronto, and Tokyo. Previously, it was performed as a two-part play that audiences could buy tickets for separately. But modern iterations of the play have condensed the story into a single, 3.5 hour show to make it more accessible.
The 2024 North American Tour is set to visit Chicago at the James M. Nederlander Theatre, Los Angeles at the Hollywood Pantages and Washington at the National. These three new locations aim to bring the same electricity of previous performances to a wider, North American audience.
One of the most captivating aspects of this production is its exciting and high-tech production. Magic comes alive with fantastic lighting, special effects, and impressive performances. The North American Tour includes performances from Chadd Alexander, John Alix, Aaron Bartz, Quinn Blades, and Darby Breedlove.
The creative team is headed by John Tiffany (director), Steven Hoggett (movement Director) and Christine Jones (set designer). You can expect the North American Tour version of this production to mirror the quality and design choices of the original West End and Broadway productions of the play.
Frequently asked questions
What age is Harry Potter and the Cursed Child suitable for?
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child has been designed to capture the attention of audiences, no matter their age. However, it is important to note that the play contains some intense scenes and themes that could be unsuitable for very young children. Generally, the recommended age to watch this production is children aged 10 and up.
What should I expect from a play at the James Nederlander Theatre?
Visiting the James Nederlander Theatre in Chicago is a premier theatre experience. It is a historic venue that offers a blend of classic and modern amenities – helping guests to enjoy their visit. You can expect stunning production quality, comfortable seating and a range of facilities including a bar, merchandise stores, and disabled access.
How can I purchase tickets for this production?
To buy tickets for this production, you can visit Ticket Squeeze using the links above, or alternatively the official tour website to reserve your seats online. You can also buy tickets in person at the James Nederlander Theatre Box Office.