Review: HARRY POTTER AND THE PRISONER OF AZKABAN, Royal Albert Hall

Watching any of the Harry Potter movies is a magical experience, loved by children and adults of all ages. But watching the film while the music is played by a live orchestra in the majestic setting of the Royal Albert Hall is an event like no other.

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban is the third instalment of J.K. Rowling's wizarding world, and part of the films in concert series at the Royal Albert Hall. It follows on from the huge success of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets earlier this year and six sold-out screenings of The Philosopher's Stone in 2017.

Harry Potter's third year at Hogwarts sees mass murder Sirius Black escape from Azkaban, and rumour has it that he's on the hunt for Harry. When he discovers that Black had a hand in the death of his parents, Harry is prepared to confront him should they ever meet.

Harry, Ron and Hermione find themselves dealing with soul-sucking dementors, a snarling werewolf and the constraints of time. All the while, Harry tries to deal with personal revelations about Sirius Black and his parents - poor Harry's life was never going to be an easy one!

The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra conducted by Justin Freer provides a spine-tinging experience, with audience members being encouraged to cheer and applaud throughout the movie, helping to make it a unique evening that the whole family can enjoy.

Having been a Potter fan from a very young age, I suspected it would be rather difficult to top the feeling I had the very first time I watched the film in a cinema - completely awed by my favourite book series coming to life on the big screen. But the Royal Albert Hall have created an intoxicating experience, using John Williams' breathtaking score and Rowling's beloved creation to produce a truly unforgettable night.

I'm sure it won't be long until Gryffindors, Hufflepuffs, Ravenclaws and my fellow Slytherins will be dusting off their house scarves ready for Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. I can't wait.

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