The magic of Harry Potter has been delighting audiences at The Palace Theatre for 7 years. This two-part play takes place 19 years after the events of the final book and follows the adventures of Harry's son, Albus, as he navigates the challenges of being the child of a legend. With stunning special effects, incredible acting, and a story that will leave you on the edge of your seat, this is a must-see for any fan of the wizarding world.
James Howard in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Photo Manuel Harlan
As the production celebrates its 7th anniversary, we're chatting with James Howard who has been a part of it all of this time. Let's find out more about this magical show..
Tell us about your character in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child?
I play Draco Malfoy who everyone knows from the books as being Harry Potter’s enemy at Hogwarts. In Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, we meet him nineteen years later and he has a son called Scorpius who befriends Harry’s son Albus. Draco is still trying to escape the suspicions of his childhood and the burden of being a Malfoy.
You’ve been with this production for 7 years, from when it opened in the West End. Can you describe what the journey has been like working on this show, especially from its beginning and now its history?
It’s been an amazing experience from day one of rehearsals when we all met in a secret location and read the script, to the very first preview which was like being at a rock concert. I then took over the role of Draco Malfoy in 2017 and I can remember the first show after covid. The constant throughout that whole journey has been the amazing reactions from our audiences!
Before you went into this production, were you a fan of Harry Potter yourself?
I had read some of the books and watched all the films, but I wouldn’t have called myself a huge fan at the time. However, now I am a total convert!
Obviously, this production will appeal to Harry Potter fans but what other kinds of audiences will enjoy this show?
There’s something in it for everyone and you can enjoy the production even if you do not know anything about Harry Potter. The more you do know, the more you’ll enjoy the references to the books and original stories.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is played in two parts which isn’t like anything else in the West End. How would you describe both of these halves?
They are both thrilling parts with lots of different qualities. The first part sets up the story with lots of magic and excitement and the second part is much darker. It’s great to be able to watch both parts in one day as it makes it feel like a real event.
West End company of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Photo Manuel Harlan
It must be great fun playing Draco Malfoy who is quite an iconic character from the books. What is your favourite part about bringing him to life?
I love surprising the audience with the way his character has grown and changed over the nineteen years. I love his relationship with his son, Scorpius but also the way his relationship changes with Harry, Ron and Hermione.
If you could play a different character in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, who would you play and why?
I’ve been lucky enough to play Harry Potter and Professor Snape but if I could play any character at all it would have to be Dolores Umbridge! She’s just pure evil.
Do you have any pre-show rituals?
We have a very specific pre-show schedule which includes physical and vocal warm-ups, rehearsals, wigs and make-up calls. After that it’s time to put on the costume and the last thing I put on is Draco’s three rings, which I always put on in a specific order.
How do you like to relax after a show, especially when it's a full day for you as an actor with two shows every time?
Sometimes it’s nice to have a post-show drink with the company. Other nights it’s straight home to bed to prepare for the next two-show day!
Why should people book their tickets to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in the West End?
It’s still the most magical show in town and there is nothing like walking into the Palace Theatre. It’s like going to Hogwarts!
Book your Harry Potter and the Cursed Child tickets.
See James and the rest of the cast in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in the Palace Theatre.
