The cast for the upcoming stage play, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, has been announced and the world can now meet the newest versions of Harry, Ron, and Hermione. While Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson will always come to mind of fans when picturing the magical trio, the new play will feature adult versions of the characters. Veteran stage actor Jamie Parker (in the middle of the image above) will portray the iconic Harry Potter in the new story, along with Paul Thornley (right) playing Harry’s best friend Ron Weasley, and Noma Dumezweni (left) as their clever counterpart, Hermione.
Some controversy has risen after the announcement of Ms. Dumezweni’s casting. Like Donald Glover’s campaign to play Spider-Man or Michael B. Jordan’s casting as Johnny Storm in the recent Fantastic Four film, some outspoken fans have voiced dissatisfaction with a black actress in a role initially played by a white one. However, J.K. Rowling herself was quick to voice her approval for Dumezweni’s casting and pointed out that the books never actually describe Hermione as being white.
Canon: brown eyes, frizzy hair and very clever. White skin was never specified. Rowling loves black Hermione 😘 https://t.co/5fKX4InjTH
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) December 21, 2015
Described as “the eighth story in the Harry Potter series,” Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is written by Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, based on an original story from J.K. Rowling, and will also be directed by John Tiffany.
The play’s plot is described as follows: “While Harry grapples with a past that refuses to stay where it belongs, his youngest son, Albus, must struggle with the weight of a family legacy he never wanted. As past and present fuse ominously, both father and son learn the uncomfortable truth: sometimes, darkness comes from unexpected places.”
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is presented in two parts that can both be seen on the same day, or in two consecutive nights. Previews begin on June 7th, 2016, and the show officially opens on July 30th. And yes, that is one day before Harry Potter’s birthday.
Let us know what you think of the casting, and if you will set out to see the play when it premieres!
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Featured Image: Simon Annand
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