While the stage play of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child has been widely acclaimed by critics and fans alike, the screenplay in book form was not so well received. Many trashed it, calling it “fan fiction” and questioning the many plot holes.

I was one of them. I could list a million ways the eighth book broke established rules of the magical world (set by the queen herself, J.K. Rowling), but this article is not about that.

Instead, I’m here to talk about the play – which turned out to be the best one I’ve ever witnessed.

The five-hour, two-parter was loaded with seemingly-impossible stunts. Imagine dementors floating around you, magical spells being cast left and right, floating objects and moving staircases – all complete with sound and lighting effects. The production team pulled no punches – there was even a huge water tank brought on stage to emulate the second task of the Triwizard Cup! Oh, and if you are seated near the stage, you could feel the chills as Voldemort walked right past you.

The way magic was brought to life was truly magnificent – even more magical than the movies.

As the whole theatre was brilliantly utilized, it was easy for us to immerse ourselves in the wizarding world. One moment, we were witnessing the characters frantically looking for something. The next, the whole theatre was bathed in ultraviolet lights, illuminating the invisible ink painted around every single corner of the auditorium. To say it was spectacular is an understatement. 

The play is filled with humour as well, and even those unfamiliar with the franchise will get some laughs out of it. 

The verdict? I’m glad I didn’t let my prejudice over the books stop me from going to the play. This is something that’s created for stage; the book doesn’t do it justice at all. Plot holes are in abundance, as have been stated, but put everything that you know about the Harry Potter world aside and you’ll enjoy it simply as a stand-alone play. 

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is currently playing at the Princess Theatre. Tickets for each part range from $65 to $175 and are available at Ticketmaster.