The Harry Potter Film Concert Series Is a Magical Experience!
by Michelle Waters
It seems we Muggles keep getting better and better Harry Potter experiences, and CineConcerts is putting on an amazing one. The wizarding world made an appearance on August 4, 2018, in Saratoga Springs, New York, at Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in Concert. Hogwarts House robes and wands could be found with attendees of all ages and everyone seemed excited to watch Sorcerer’s Stone while the Philadelphia Orchestra played the soaring music of John Williams along with the film. We got our tickets checked and were handed amazing souvenir tickets that moved just like the cards in the Chocolate Frog boxes.
The conductor, Justin Freer, began his welcoming speech with a Sorting poll to see where the fans of each House were seated that night (Go Ravenclaw!). He also encouraged us to cheer for our favorite characters and moments throughout the film. “Hedwig’s Theme” was brought to life by the Philadelphia Orchestra, and the crowd cheered with McGonagall’s first line, “Good evening, Professor Dumbledore.” They booed the Dursleys for making Harry live under the stairs. They cheered when Harry caught the Golden Snitch. Hagrid and Mrs. Weasley both received the largest applause when they entered a scene.
As the movie and orchestra played, I remembered the last time I saw this film on the big screen on November 14, 2001. I have watched the movie several times since then, but seeing this story that I grew up with accompanied by the orchestra made me feel nostalgic for the days I was first introduced to Harry, Hermione, and Ron. Now it is being shared with younger generations in the crowd as their introductions to the beloved series. As we continued to laugh, recite our favorite lines, and cheer, we felt as if we were part of the movie, especially as Gryffindor was declared the winners of the House Cup. The Philadelphia Orchestra enhanced this moviegoing experience with each magical minute, but if you missed this concert, don’t worry. The good news is that once the film ended, the next screen showed that Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert would be coming soon!
You can find a Harry Potter Film Concert Series event near you here. CineConcerts puts on a show you do not want to miss!