Big change coming to Harry Potter play

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child has announced a major change to the hit play as it prepares to return to the stage in Melbourne.

The Australian production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child will be condensed into a one-part play from May 2022.

The play, which is performed in two parts, will continue in that format until March 27, 2022 before the production closes to prep and rehearse the new version.

The Herald Sun first reported on the planned changes for the Potter play in August.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is set to return.

Producers Sonia Friedman & Colin Callender said: “We are incredibly excited that our reimagined production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child will open in Melbourne at the Princess Theatre next year.

“After exploring a single-show experience for North American audiences, it became clear that this new version of our glorious play should be presented for our audiences in Melbourne later next year.

“The production is set around the same powerful narrative, while delivering all the amazing illusions, stagecraft, and storytelling that have captivated audiences and critics alike. Harry’s story is now told eight times a week.”

Harry Potter cast members Lucy Ansell and Damien Avery with Events Minister Martin Pakula. Picture: Alex Coppel

Victoria’s Major Events Minister Martin Pakula said: “Melbourne is proud to be the exclusive home of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in Australia”.

“The show is already the country’s most successful play and we can’t wait to celebrate its reopening and be captivated by the reimagined version next year.”

The new one-part version of Potter will premiere on Broadway next week.

Tickets for the new version of Potter in Melbourne will go on sale on November 19.