19 Years Later: A Surprisingly Dark Satire of Magic

ensemble theatre · m&w theatre group · Ages 10+ · United States of America

world premiere
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Review by BREE WERNICKE

June 23, 2018 certified reviewer

What I liked

Ian Cardoni as Harry and Conner Stevens as Scorpius are absolutely perfect, holy cats! The rest of the cast is strong and committed as well; clearly a lot of work and thought went into both the writing and direction of this show. It made excellent use of the (very weird) space, loft and all.

What I didn't like

I really hate that venue. Shallow rake, uncomfortable seats, risers that bob up and down anytime someone steps on them, weirdly deep stage, dreadful location right on Hollywood Blvd (where do you park?? you don’t). That space wants desperately to be anything but a theatre, and this show deserves SO MUCH BETTER.

My overall impression

This is a fantastic tribute to Harry Potter and answer to Cursed Child. The writing made sense!! It’s full of both funny and tear-jerking moments (and digs at Cursed Child), and incredible special effects. If this play could be produced again with the production value it deserves, I would absolutely see it like five more times. Honestly, it’s that good. If you have ever even vaguely heard of Harry Potter, go see it.

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