A Look into the History of Magic with a New BBC Documentary!
UPDATE: 10/24/17
A new description of the documentary available on the BBC webpage has revealed some exciting new tidbits about the program. Imelda Staunton, who portrayed Professor Umbridge, will narrate the documentary, which will also feature readings by Harry Potter actors David Thewlis, Evanna Lynch, Warwick Davis, Miriam Margolyes, and Mark Williams. Jim Kay – the artist behind the illustrated editions of Harry Potter – will also provide art for Harry Potter: A History of Magic, although we’ll have to wait until the program airs to see just how these are incorporated into the documentary.
We definitely didn’t need more reasons to tune in to A History of Magic – but we won’t turn down the chance to see all of these talented people at work celebrating Potter!
Original Post:
Can’t make it to the Harry Potter: A History of Magic exhibition at the British Library? Don’t worry! BBC has produced a documentary on all things magical history, including the wonderful world of Harry Potter.
A thrilling journey through legends, belief and folklore, this film goes behind the scenes with the British Library as they search to tell that story through objects in their collection, in an ambitious new exhibition: Harry Potter: A History [o]f Magic.
The documentary will feature J.K. Rowling discussing items she donated from her personal collection, as well as studying the ancient artifacts that inspired her magical universe.
The documentary and the exhibition draw lines of similarity from the ancient practice of magic and witchcraft to the beloved creatures, spells, and potions we are familiar with today thanks to Rowling. (See mandrakes, the philosopher’s stone, etc.)
The documentary airs on BBC Two on October 28. Check out the trailer below for a quick sneak peek!
