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HBO Harry Potter television series confirms casting for Fred, George, Percy and Ginny Weasley 

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Today we welcome Tristan Harland, Gabriel Harland, Ruari Spooner and Gracie Cochrane to the wizarding world family, who will be taking on the roles of Fred, George, Percy and Ginny Weasley respectively. 

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This adorable selfie was released today from the set of the show, currently filming at Warner Bros. Studios, Leavesden. 

These additions to the Weasley family will join the [already-cast Ron, played by Alastair Stout](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/harry-ron-and-hermione-casting-revealed-for-harry-potter-hbo-original-series), and Katherine Parkinson, who is taking on the mantle of [Molly Weasley. ](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/further-casting-announced-for-harry-potter-hbo-series-molly-weasley-dursleys-malfoys-and-more)

As we know, the Weasley clan is not a small one – so we’re excited to see more family members pop up in the future. 

***

*The Harry Potter television series will debut in 2027 on HBO and HBO Max, where it’s available, including upcoming launch markets, Germany, Italy and the UK.*

*You can find out [absolutely everything else about the series right here](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/everything-we-know-about-the-harry-potter-tv-series-so-far).*


Unveiling the lineup and release dates of groundbreaking audiobook series Harry Potter: The Full-Cast Audio Editions

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With a cast that includes Hugh Laurie as Albus Dumbledore, Matthew Macfadyen as Lord Voldemort, Riz Ahmed as Professor Snape, Michelle Gomez as Professor McGonagall and Cush Jumbo as narrator, this new audiobook series promises to bring the Harry Potter stories to life as never heard before. The new project, a collaboration between Pottermore Publishing and Audible, begins with *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone*, slated for release 4th November 2025.

Trailer | Harry Potter: The Full-Cast Audio Editions

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That’s not all, with the reveal of the release dates for the rest of audiobooks, culminating with the release of *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows* on 12th May 2026, you can now pre-order the whole series from Audible right here.

[For the US](https://www.audible.com/harrypotter) <br>
[For the UK](https://www.audible.co.uk/harrypotter) <br> 
[For Canada ](https://www.audible.ca/harrypotter) <br> 
[For Australia](https://www.audible.com.au/harrypotter) <br> 
[For India ](https://www.audible.in/harrypotter) <br> 

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Each audiobook comes with a stunning score, mesmerising performances from A-list actors, original music, and real-world sound capture. Featuring beloved stars of the stage and screen, this innovative audiobook project has a powerhouse ensemble of over 200 voices – one for every character in the Harry Potter series. Olivier-nominated actor Cush Jumbo will have the all-important task of narrating the stories. You can hear from her and some of our stellar cast in this audio teaser just above.

In the first three audiobooks, the young versions of Harry, Ron and Hermione will be voiced by Frankie Treadaway, Max Lester and Arabella Stanton respectively. And if that final name is ringing a bell for you – well spotted! [Arabella Stanton is indeed also playing Hermione in the upcoming Harry Potter HBO series](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/harry-ron-and-hermione-casting-revealed-for-harry-potter-hbo-original-series) – we’re sure Miss Granger herself would approve of this incredible multitasking. 

From *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire* onwards, the trio will then be voiced by Jaxon Knopf, Rhys Mulligan and Nina Barker-Francis, carrying on the roles of Harry, Ron and Hermione until the seventh book’s climax. 

On his casting as Dumbledore, Hugh Laurie said: 

"I’m honoured to have been trusted with the keys to Albus Dumbledore, and thrilled to be able to take him around the track of this beautiful incarnation by Pottermore and Audible. I’m also deeply conscious of previous drivers Richard Harris, Michael Gambon, Jude Law and the iconic narrations by Jim Dale and m’colleague Sir Stephen Fry. Just below the horizon, but headed our way, is the rough beast John Lithgow, his hour come round at last. This is great company, and it’s a privilege to be among their number."

You can [pre-order the entire series through Audible](https://www.audible.com/harrypotter) right here – and keep an eye out on more exciting news to come!

__*Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone* releases 4th November; *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets* releases 16th December, 2025; *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban* releases 13th January, 2026; *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire* releases 10th February, 2026; *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix* releases 10th March, 2026; *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince* releases 14th April, 2026; concluding with the release of *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows* on 12th May, 2026.__

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How we're celebrating Back to Hogwarts season in 2025 

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🚨 __Keep an eye on this page! It will magically update with more updates as and when we have them.__ 🚨 

Every year, on the 1st September, Hogwarts students return to the wonders of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry for a new year of start-of-term surprises. And here in our Muggle lives, we’ve taken that day under our wing and made it special for fans all across the globe every year. 

But how is 2025 shaping up? Come and see all of the Hogwarts happenings.

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## First up... get ready for our Back to Hogwarts showcase

Well, wait just a second now – we couldn’t celebrate Back to Hogwarts without a worldwide online showcase! So even if you can’t make any of these Harry Potter fan events below, you can log on with us at around 10.40 BST / 5.40 ET for our annual start-of-term announcements across Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for many magical surprises and news fresher than a recently-owl-delivered Daily Prophet. [You can subscribe to our YouTube channel right now to get ready.](https://www.youtube.com/@harrypotter?sub_confirmation=1)

## It's the 20-year anniversary of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire!

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This year’s Back to Hogwarts season is extra special, as it coincides with a huge milestone for the fourth Harry Potter story – 20 years since *Goblet of Fire* film hit our screens. Earlier this year, the Studio Tour in London celebrated in fiery fashion, when a [life-sized Hungarian Horntail](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/hungarian-horntail-takes-over-london-for-studio-tour-summer-stunt) turned up in the Big Smoke – but we’re not quite finished yet! 

To commemorate the occasion accordingly, the film will return to cinemas worldwide, including a special screening in London’s Leicester Square on 31st August featuring James and Oliver Phelps, AKA the Weasley twins! Let’s hope they turn up with big, long white beards after a hearty swig of Ageing Potion. IYKYK.

Their special Q&A will be hosted by Yinka Bokinni. Plus, whether it’s your house robes or your Yule Ball finest, remember to don your best wizarding attire – there will be costume competitions, giveaways and photo opportunities too! 

Update: this event is now sold out, [BUT there's still a chance to win a pair of tickets here.](https://www.harrypotter.com/linkout?destination=https%3A%2F%2Fmc6m8w8vs3rqw7164shtyl7t087m.pub.sfmc-content.com%2Fy0xktjxxmha)

In the US, fans can check out the [Fandango website](https://www.harrypotter.com/linkout?destination=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fandango.com%2F) to find special screenings happening all over the states across the season. More theatres in Canada, EMEA and International territories will be joining in the fun very soon. [Keep watching this space as more are revealed. ](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/international-screenings-guide-for-back-to-hogwarts-2025)

## Snapchat releases Harry Potter Bitmoji Lenses 

3D Harry Potter lenses are coming soon to Snapchat. Launching in mid-August, Snap users can transform their Snapchat Bitmojis Back to Hogwarts style: place your Bitmoji in iconic locations, such as the Wizard Chess sequence, Platform Nine and Three-Quarters, the [Goblet of Fire](https://www.harrypotter.com/fact-file/objects/the-goblet-of-fire) moment in the Great Hall, and the Privet Drive scene with Harry’s influx of Hogwarts letters. Again, we’ll keep you posted when these features are live and can’t wait to see your combinations. 

## Global celebrations 


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Click on the following territories to see what Back to Hogwarts activity is going on for you! This list is charmed, so expect it to magically grow.

<span id="top"></span>

<ul>
    <li><a href="#uk">The UK</a></li>
    <li><a href="#north-america">North America and Canada</a></li>
    <li><a href="#france">France</a></li>
    <li><a href="#germany">Germany</a></li>
    <li><a href="#italy">Italy</a></li>
    <li><a href="#spain">Spain</a></li>
    <li><a href="#japan">Japan</a></li>
    <li><a href="#china">China</a></li>
    <li><a href="#singapore">Singapore</a></li>
    <li><a href="#australia">Australia</a></li>
    <li><a href="#mexico">Mexico</a></li>
    <li><a href="#uae">UAE</a></li>
</ul>

<h2 id="uk">The UK</h2>

### Free screening of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire in Leicester Square with Phelps twins Q&A

As we mentioned above, Cineworld Leicester Square will play host to a free screening of the fourth Harry Potter film on 31st August. Fans can enjoy a live Q&A with the Weasley twins, James and Oliver Phelps with TV and radio host Yinka Bokinni as our fantastic MC – and you can bet they’ll be some fun in the foyer before the show too! If you’re lucky enough to snap up a ticket, we recommend you get your wizarding gladrags on and join like-minded fans for a very special night of magic.

__[You could be in with a chance to span up a pair of tickets here, thanks to Wizarding Wednesdays.](https://www.harrypotter.com/linkout?destination=https%3A%2F%2Fmc6m8w8vs3rqw7164shtyl7t087m.pub.sfmc-content.com%2Fy0xktjxxmha)__

Look out for goodies galore, including a complementary Wizarding World Micro Magical Moments Year 4 Collectible Figure set from Spinmaster. 

__[Check out other Goblet of Fire anniversary screenings at Cineworld UK right this way.](https://www.harrypotter.com/linkout?destination=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cineworld.co.uk%2Ffilms%2Fharry-potter-the-goblet-of-fire-20th-anniversary%2Fho00013228%23%2Fbuy-tickets-by-film%3Fin-cinema%3Dlondon%26at%3D2025-08-25%26for-movie%3Dho00013228%26view-mode%3Dlist)__

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Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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### Wizarding Wednesdays return 

Our weekly competition, Wizarding Wednesdays, is back back back, inviting UK folks to sweep up spellbinding prizes. [Keep a watchful eye on our social channels](https://www.harrypotter.com/linkout?destination=https%3A%2F%2Fmc6m8w8vs3rqw7164shtyl7t087m.pub.sfmc-content.com%2Fy0xktjxxmha) every Wednesday to  see what you could win. 

### Warner Bros. Studio Tour London will host an 11am countdown on 1st September|

[Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – the Making of Harry Potter](https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/) will host 300 lucky guests at a celebratory 11am countdown moment at the Studio Tour, held on the platform next to the iconic Hogwarts Express live on 1st Sept. Tickets are exclusively available by entering a competition to win, visit @wbtourlondon for more details on how to enter before the competition closes. The contest closes on 11th August, so you’ve got time! 

### The Platform 9 ¾ shop has a new merchandise and a photo opp 

The official Harry Potter shop, tucked away at King’s Cross Station, is getting into the Back to Hogwarts spirit in all sorts of ways – including some fresh merchandise for 2025 and a photo opportunity frame. If you’re London-based, the shop begins celebrating from 28th July. 

### Meet & Greet at MinaLima

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House of MinaLima, 26 Greek Street in London

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Also in London, fans can visit the headquarters of design team MinaLima, the masterminds behind many of the magical details of the Harry Potter films. Their shop is hosting a meet and greet event on the 31st August, where limited-edition Back to Hogwarts badges, exclusive for 2025, will be available to snap up. Make sure to practice your Seeker reflexes though: they won’t last long! All the info you need for this one is over on the [MinaLima official site.](https://minalima.com/)

Special Hogwarts notice: alas, we must once again discourage fans from attending King’s Cross Station on 1st September, as there will be no countdown or train announcement occurring in 2025. Safety first, folks.

<h2 id="north-america">North America and Canada</h2>

### Harry Potter: New York and Harry Potter: Chicago release Back to Hogwarts time-limited merchandise 

If you’re [New York](https://www.harrypotterstore.com/) or [Chicago](https://harrypottershop.com/pages/chicago?srsltid=AfmBOoqzzViOYPGLJwWXGoHaGV1R7eEtlO8TMrQkDSvwOvqX1flg1ngH) based, why not rock on down to the official Harry Potters shops in your area for some exclusive time-limited goodies for Back to Hogwarts 2025? Visit from 28th July to see what new items are on offer.

### Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience comes to Chicago

More spellbinding stuff for Chicago fans! The Forbidden Forest Experience has been casting a Dark spell on fans over the past few years, and now, the immersive experience is coming to the Windy City. Visit the official website to find out more.

### Cursed Child on Broadway offering shows for 19 dollars

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As the play is set 19 years later, the Cursed Child production in New York has had the ingenious idea to release tickets to their shows for only 19 bucks. The special priced ticket will only be available to grab on 1st September, so mark this in your calendars and visit [harrypotterbroadway.com](https://broadway.harrypottertheplay.com/) or at the Lyric Theatre Box Office to get the full lowdown. 

<h2 id="france">France</h2>

### Take your exams at the Sainte-Geneviève Library 

Sacre bleu! Exams?! Yes, you heard that right. You’re invited to a free ticketed event in the beautiful university library, crammed with almost as much history as Hogwarts! But don’t worry – it’s not *that* kind of exam, this is a fun, interactive quiz event for Harry Potter fans to test their magical acumen.

There will also be an appearance from actor Solange Boulanger, who dubbed Dolores Umbridge in the Harry Potter films. Solange will be providing a special dictation session for visitors (remember: it’s Levi-O-sah...) while LEGO and Harry Potter Haribo displays will also be scattered around. 

Fans who can’t make the event physically can get a proper wizarding education online from [https://examen.retourapoudlard.fr/](https://examen.retourapoudlard.fr/) - check it out from 30th August – 6th September. 

<h2 id="germany">Germany</h2>

### Westfield Hamburg-Überseequartier to host Back to Hogwarts 3-day bonanza

Why celebrate Back to Hogwarts day for one day when you could do it for three? This Hamburg-based shopping centre has the right idea about things, with Harry Potter activities galore available across 29th August, 30th August, 1st September. Thalia, LEGO, Haribo and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child are all getting involved, so keep your ear to the ground for bewitching giveaways.

If you're old enough, you can find out more on our German Harry Potter social channels.

### Select Thalia book stores will have a Back to Hogwarts takeover

Speaking of Thalia, the book store chain is getting into the Hogwarts spirit in more ways than one this summer, with select stores bringing a little slither of the wizarding world into 10 of their shops. Visitors can expect prize draws, Harry Potter displays, and of course, plenty of opportunities for a magical snap.

[Visit the website here to learn more.](https://www.thalia.de/themenwelten/harry-potter/back-to-hogwarts/tour)

### From takeovers...to sleepovers!

And in Dusseldorf, Hannover, Leipzig and Hamburg, there will be four Back to Hogwarts-themed sleepover events taking place in Thalia stores too! If you sign up by the 8th August, you can join fellow fans for a wizarding all-nighter if you’re lucky enough to snag a free ticket.

[Details are right over here.](https://thalia.de/themenwelten/harry-potter/back-to-hogwarts)

### Harry Potter and the Cursed Child brings Back to Hogwarts fever to Hamburg

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The hit play is recognising Back to Hogwarts season with a start-of-term special on 31st August, with magical offers on this day and a costume competition to boot. [Check out the official website to see what’s in store](https://www.atgtickets.de/musicals-shows/harry-potter-und-das-verwunschene-kind/back-to-hogwarts/).

### Universal Beijing Resort promises themed merchandise, special entertainment and even a feast

MUCH fun can be had at Universal Beijing Resort during the Back to Hogwarts season. Just a few things to look forward to... *deep breath* A Collectors Edition interactive Wand exclusive to the park, themed merchandise packages, a Back to Hogwarts feast, Hogwarts house-themed face painting, 
and much more. 

For the full list of details, [simply visit the official site.](https://www.harrypotter.com/linkout?destination=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.universalbeijingresort.com%2Fen%2FBTH2025)

<h2 id="italy">Italy</h2>

### Back to Hogwarts event to take place in Teatro Nazionale, Milan 

The fashion capital of Italy will most likely see a storm of Hogwarts robes on 1st September, as Harry Potter fans are invited to a countdown ceremony and a wonderful array of activities to go alongside. Expect quizzes, performances and even surprise guests! 
Visit here for more.

<h2 id="spain">Spain</h2>

### Magic is coming to Museo del Ferrocarril in Madrid

Vamos! On 31st August and 1st September, Madrid will host a fan event at Museo del Ferrocarril (the Railway museum)

Visitors will enjoy two magical days of Hogwarts-themed fun, including a special 11 o’clock countdown!

[Click here to find out more](https://www.harrypotter.com/linkout?destination=https%3A%2F%2Fbacktohogwartsmadrid.com%2F)

<h2 id="japan">Japan</h2>

### The Saitama Seibu Lions will be casting a spell on baseball fans

It's been a huge year for Harry Potter fans in Japan – and the magic certainly doesn’t stop now. From the 29th August to the 31st August, the wizarding world is coming to the baseball pitch, dubbed Harry Potter x Lions. Fans of the team will discover bespoke products while attending games, and will even be treated to a special appearance from a Harry Potter and the Cursed Child cast member...

Who knew the Saitama Seibu Lions were Harry Potter fans? We bet they’re all Gryffindors. 

<h2 id="china">China</h2>

### Prisoner of Azkaban and Goblet of Fire in Concert plays in Shanghai

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From 7th August to 10th August, the third and fourth Harry Potter films will be brought to life in spectacular fashion with the In Concert series coming to Shanghai, complete with a live symphony orchestra. 

[The official website has a handy map of all upcoming locations for these gorgeous shows.](https://harrypotterinconcert.com/tickets)

### The West Lake becomes...The Great Lake?

In Hangzhou, on 30th August – 1st September, a Back to Hogwarts celebration set against the iconic backdrop of the West Lake will take place, with a plethora of community activities expected. The Harry Potter China social channels can tell you more about this one.

<h2 id="singapore">Singapore</h2>

### Harry Potter: Visions of Magic promises Back to Hogwarts merriment

Visitors of [Harry Potter: Visions of Magic](https://www.harrypotter.com/discover-experiences/experiences/harry-potter-visions-of-magic), the experiential and interactive art experience that has been spreading wonder around the globe, is upping the ante in Singapore for Back to Hogwarts day. If you have a ticket already and turn up in Hogwarts house regalia, there’s a chance to win complimentary gifts. Watch out for other surprises on site.

<h2 id="australia">Australia</h2>

### Harry Potter: The Exhibition offers special ticket offer on 1st September 

All the way down under, Harry Potter fans can enjoy behind-the-scenes film magic with [Harry Potter: The Exhibition](https://harrypotterexhibition.com/), currently happening in Melbourne. But on 1st September, fans should stay tuned for a very special ticket offer... Ooh, mysterious. Maybe bookmark the official site and keep an eye out.

<h2 id="Mexico">Mexico</h2> 

### Meanwhile, a collectible poster is up for grabs at Harry Potter: Visions of Magic in Mexico City

Fans who attend the ethereal experience in [Mexico City](https://www.harrypotter.com/linkout?destination=https%3A%2F%2Fharrypottervisionsofmagic.com%2F) between 26th August to 31st August will receive a special Back to Hogwarts collectible poster!

<h2 id="UAE">UAE</h2> 

### Dress to impress in Harry Potter: The Exhibition in Abu Dhabi

Speaking of Harry Potter: The Exhibition, we heartily encourage attendees to dress up in their Hogwarts house colours, should you be attending on 1st September. A Hogwarts house-themed prize is up for grabs! (If you're in Melbourne or Salt Lake City - look out for similar contests.) 

***

__Phew! And that’s just a couple of things for the time being... [sign up to our newsletter](https://www.harrypotter.com/register) as we reveal more info on Back to Hogwarts 2025 or keep fervently refreshing this page as more magic presents itself.__ 

What would you be most excited to get back to Hogwarts for?

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Stay up to date with the latest Wizarding World news here. Faster than an owl and more accurate than the Daily Prophet.

Get the latest Harry Potter news here. Faster than an owl and more accurate than the Daily Prophet

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How Pottermore and Apple created the new Harry Potter Enhanced Editions

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Bolt book array of the enhanced edition showcasing books one to seven

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They revolutionised the way we read, they’re digital versions of print books and we can carry a whole library with us everywhere we go.

But they can also be more than that. Technology can be used to rouse your imagination and build suspense in ways we’ve never really thought of before. With the right imagination and the right stories, eBooks can be crafted to almost, *almost*, feel like magic. 

Pottermore and Apple have collaborated on a series of eBooks that do exactly that. The [Harry Potter Enhanced Editions](https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewFeature?id=1042438110&app=itunes&at=1000l8cU&ct=launch+news+article) are bursting with playful animations, intricate artwork, interactive features and J.K.&nbsp;Rowling’s annotations from pottermore.com. They are utterly charming.

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iPhone iBook Visual_UK

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Every detail was meticulously planned to fit Harry’s world without pulling focus from the text itself, from the custom-designed, lightning-inspired capital letters (in a font called ‘Fluffy’) at the beginning of each chapter, to the detailed depiction of [Malfoy Manor](/features/malfoy-manor). Each element is created with magic in mind, not just convenience – although I can still fit all seven volumes into my handbag. 

So what are they like, you ask? I’ve had a play with them (lucky me!) and I can quickly whisper a few details in your general direction... 

There’s an animated Golden Snitch that flits across a page in *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* (please tell me if you can catch it with your fingers; I tried and I tried but I couldn’t). There’s a [Mountain Troll](/features/mountain-trolls) absent-mindedly clubbing the paragraph below, there are fires that flicker, portraits that move and smoke that billows beautifully. Each detail is a subtle, deliberate decision to complement the imagination of J.K.&nbsp;Rowling’s Wizarding World. Some of them I’d seen on pottermore.com, others are sparkling new.  

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A production executive from Pottermore was able to tell me a wee bit about the creative process: ‘Every decision is about the text. We’re always mindful of the narrative tension – sometimes it’s appropriate to allow the reader to take a look around the wizarding world and put an explanatory picture of a Hinkypunk in their peripheral vision. 

‘Sometimes, in moments of tense action and grave peril, that would be completely wrong. The team took time together, out of the office, in a secret space in London to develop ideas. For the covers, for instance, we started with over 100 different treatments and over the next few months, whittled that down to 11, then three and finally down to one look that we all love.’

Repeat that process over and over for all 223 ‘enhancements’ in this book. Beautiful little animations, pictures you can zoom in on and spin, panoramic scenery that you can pinch and elaborate, and sometimes interactive artwork. Some of them are grand and obvious and others are hidden. This is more than an eBook; it’s a treasure hunt for delights between the lines. I loved them. 

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The Harry Potter Enhanced Editions are available exclusively from the iBooks store [here](https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewFeature?id=1042438110&app=itunes&at=1000l8cU&ct=launch+news+article).

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is in two parts

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J.K. Rowling has just revealed that the play *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child* will be staged in two parts.  

The new stage play by Jack Thorne is based on a new and original story by J.K. Rowling, Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, and will premiere in London’s West End in summer 2016 at the Palace Theatre. 

At 10pm today, J.K. Rowling tweeted: ‘Due to the epic nature of the story we’ve been working on, *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child* will be in two parts!’

Like you, we had so many questions and luckily for us, the play’s director John Tiffany and its writer Jack Thorne were on hand to answer some of them.  

BAFTA-winning writer Jack Thorne was elated by the chance to delve deeper into the wizarding world. 

‘Obviously I loved it when we decided to tell this story in two parts,’ Jack tells us, ‘because I got to spend more time with the characters and what an honour that has been.  

‘It continues to be unbelievable and amazing that I’ve been given this extraordinary chance to bring Harry Potter to the stage. As a fan, who just devoured the books and the films, this couldn’t be more exciting for me.’

The significance of the stage play is not lost on Tony and Olivier Award-winning director John Tiffany. He feels that *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child* is a unique production, and we’re inclined to agree. 

‘I’ve never worked on anything quite like this before,’ he says. ‘Usually in theatre you’re adapting existing material or creating an entirely new play. With the *Cursed Child* we have been given the unique opportunity to explore some of the most cherished books and beloved characters ever written, yet work with J.K. Rowling to tell a story from that world that no one yet knows – it’s exhilarating. 

‘It shares a scale and ambition with all the Harry Potter stories, so in order to do this justice we have decided to present the play in two parts.’

John and Jack are two of the most successful and respected people working in theatre today. Their utterly charming nervousness about bringing J.K. Rowling’s characters to the stage only highlights what this extraordinary new story means to them. 

‘I just hope we do it justice,’ says Jack. ‘I’m so constantly aware of respecting the previous seven stories… I hope people love this play like they loved the books. Everything we do is with that in mind.’

The production doesn’t just mean the world to its director and writer, but also to the entire team working tirelessly to bring the play to London’s West End next summer. 

‘There are many people working on this production who grew up with the books, or discovered them with their kids,’ John tells us, ‘and it’s been thrilling and humbling to hear them say, “We never thought we’d get Harry back. But he’s here…”’

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child *comes to London’s West End summer 2016. Pottermore will be right here to bring you more news, interviews and much more besides.*

Welcome to the new Pottermore

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Everything we know about the Fantastic Beasts movie so far

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Harry uses the Patronus spell against a Dementor to protect his cousin.

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I’m going to be reporting straight from the set of new film *Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them*. And unless I’m wiped out by a rogue [dragon](/features/dragons), I’ll bring you as many insider stories as possible. 

But first, here’s a little background on what we know so far. You never know when a colleague, cab driver, Facebook friend or child will turn to you for an update. Be prepared. 

## It’s being filmed now, right now this minute

Deep in the English countryside (alright, fine, a short train ride from [King’s Cross](/writing-by-jk-rowling/kings-cross-station))*, an army of actors, designers, producers, directors, builders, technicians and probably wizards are filming in a vast, rugged film set. 

## It’s about a guy called Newt 

If you don’t know, this is a story about Newt Scamander. Newt was the wizard, adventurer and the Magizoologist who wrote the textbook *Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them*. It’s the greatest book on the subject of magical creatures in the wizarding world, with an introduction from [Albus Dumbledore](/features/albus-dumbledore), no less, and was written entirely from experience (think of Newt as a combination of David Attenborough and Bear Grylls, but a wizard). Harry Potter and his mates studied the book at [Hogwarts](/features/hogwarts), but they wouldn’t have met Newt, largely because his adventures took place decades before they were born. 

## Not a guy called Harry 

...On account of his not existing yet. This movie is not about Harry Potter, boy wizard. It’s set in the same wizarding world but during the 1920s – and roughly 3,200 miles South West of Hogwarts.

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NOPE. Not this guy. Not this time. Catch you later, Harry. 

## We’re going to America

Newt Scamander’s perilous adventures started in the US of A. He knew wizards who were educated at a school there – though J.K. Rowling has not yet revealed its name or its coordinates. She has hinted that indigenous magic had a little something to do with the founding of the school. This is the tweet J.K. Rowling teased us with at first...

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Newt only meant to stay in New York for a few hours. Circumstances ensured that he remained... for the length of a movie, anyway. X</p>&mdash; J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) <a href="https://twitter.com/jk_rowling/status/519595139673497600">October 7, 2014</a></blockquote>
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## Eddie Redmayne is playing the protagonist 

Eddie Redmayne! Eddie. Redmayne. Eddie John David Redmayne – *that* Eddie Redmayne. 

The Oscar-winning, OBE-having, BAFTA-owning British actor who can sing like an angel and make freckles look like moondust scattered across his face by the gods. He won an Oscar portraying Stephen Hawking in *The Theory of Everything*, our hearts as Marius Pontmercy in *Les Misérables*, and this part because he is one of the finest actors on the planet. Let’s see how he handles a Glumbumble, shall we?

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## Katherine Waterston is Tina 

Porpentina Goldstein will be played by Katherine Waterston. Bold and beautiful – the perfect mysterious witch, she will join Eddie on set as ‘Tina’. You might remember Katherine as Emma Harrow in HBO’s *Boardwalk Empire*, in which she played the twin sister of an injured war veteran who wore a mask; from last year’s crime flick *Inherent Vice*, or the pretty risqué 2007 film *The Babysitters*. She’s a celebrated theatre actor with famous dramatic parents and siblings, so it’s quite possible she’s had the word ‘Action!’ ringing in her ears since childhood. We cannot wait to see her in 1920s costume.

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## 25,000 turned up to the audition to play Modesty

Twenty five thousand! That’s the turnout you get when you invite any girl between eight and 12 to an open audition for a movie role this exciting. Especially when it’s endorsed so lovingly by Evanna Lynch:

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And encouraged so enthusiastically by J.K. Rowling:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I&#39;m so looking forward to meeting our Modesty! <a href="https://t.co/VzIK6vhhQP">https://t.co/VzIK6vhhQP</a></p>&mdash; J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) <a href="https://twitter.com/jk_rowling/status/622362920463282180">July 18, 2015</a></blockquote> <script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Truly, if we were between the ages of eight and 12… A herd of disrespected [Hippogriffs](/features/hippogriffs) couldn’t have kept us from being there. 

The role went to ten-year-old Faith Wood-Blagrove in her very first movie role, which is wonderfully exciting for her. 

## Other awesome people are in it

Colin Farrell is Graves. Ezra Miller is Credence. Alison Sudol is Queenie. Dan Fogler is Jacob. Samantha Morton is Mary Lou.

You don’t know a lot about those characters yet, but you will. Oh yes, you will. Just wait. 

## Fantastic news and where to find it

Right here on pottermore.com. We’ll bring you every secret, insight, interview and glimpse of a 1920s’ wizard boot that we can. Check back in with us very, very soon; you won’t want to miss a thing. 

**Editor’s note: Euston, actually, but any excuse for PMC to visit the Platform 9 3/4 shop. No, you can’t get a wand on expenses.*

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