Review: HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD in Tokyo

"Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" takes place 19 years after the conclusion of the original film series. This original story was co-created by J.K. Rowling and playwright Jack Thorne, with Rowling herself praising it as "the magic that can only be experienced in the theater."

Having premiered in six major cities worldwide, including London and New York, Tokyo marks the production's first Asian venue. This multi-award-winning show, including the Tony Awards, features a talented Japanese cast selected through rigorous auditions. Since its 2022 opening, the production has reached a significant milestone of over 1.4 million audience members.

The production's primary draw is the immersive experience of the wizarding world. From the inventive musical score and intricate set designs to the seamless stage magic, every element leaves the audience in awe. The Tokyo run is scheduled to conclude on December 27, 2026.

Nineteen years have passed since Harry, Ron, and Hermione brought peace to the wizarding world. However, a series of unsettling incidents reminiscent of the dark era of the past has begun to occur, causing widespread anxiety.

Now a father of three and working at the Ministry of Magic, Harry struggles with his new role. His second son, Albus, who is about to enter Hogwarts, rebels against the heavy burden of being the "son of a hero." Having grown up without parents himself, Harry finds it difficult to connect with his son, and the rift between them only deepens.

Amidst this tension, Albus has a fateful encounter on the Hogwarts Express. He meets Scorpius, the son of Harry’s longtime rival, Draco Malfoy. Their unexpected bond becomes the catalyst for a gathering darkness that threatens to consume the world once again.

The performance begins with the sound of a train, instantly transporting the audience into the world of magic. In a striking early moment, characters dressed in everyday clothing transform into Hogwarts robes in the blink of an eye. This seamless quick-change sets the tone for a production that never allows the audience a moment to look away. The pacing remains consistently brisk, with no wasted movement, drawing viewers deeper into the narrative. The precision of the direction creates an experience that feels less like watching a play and more like stepping directly into the world itself.

The stagecraft and magical effects are executed at an extraordinary level. The iconic moving staircases of Hogwarts are recreated with remarkable accuracy, bringing familiar imagery vividly to life. In the underwater sequence, flying effects are combined with real water on stage, allowing characters to dive beneath the surface and reemerge before the audience’s eyes. The scale and immersion far exceed conventional theatrical boundaries. Even the Dementors, descending toward the audience, are realized with chilling detail, evoking a tangible sense of fear and tension throughout the theatre.

The Polyjuice Potion transformation scenes further showcase the cast’s exceptional skill. Each performer meticulously captures the mannerisms and physicality of the character they are imitating, resulting in impressively nuanced portrayals. These layers of detail significantly enhance the overall realism and craftsmanship of the production.

The performances themselves are of an exceptionally high standard. *Seita Ueno, as Harry Potter, delivers a deeply layered portrayal of a father struggling with his past and his relationship with his son. Seita’s nuanced performance adds emotional weight to the story and anchors the narrative. *Chion Sato, playing Albus, brings a rare naturalism to the stage, embodying the character with authenticity and emotional clarity that resonates strongly with the audience.

Meanwhile, *Itsuki Okubo’s Scorpius is both sensitive and compelling, drawing the audience in with a performance that balances vulnerability and intensity. Itsuki’s portrayal adds depth to the central relationship between the two boys, leaving a lasting impression. *Tomohiro Sekimachi as Ron Weasley retains the character’s signature humor into adulthood, skillfully delivering moments of levity that provide balance within the story.

While rooted in a magical world, the core of the narrative lies in its exploration of family and friendship. Scenes set in the past recreate iconic moments familiar from the films, unfolding live on stage with remarkable impact. At the same time, carefully planted elements from the opening are brought back in a satisfying and emotionally resonant conclusion, exemplifying the storytelling strength of the Harry Potter universe.

From its rapid-fire opening dialogue to its relentless forward momentum, the production leaves no room for distraction. Built with extraordinary precision and ambition, this stage adaptation offers an experience that deepens one’s appreciation for the world of Harry Potter. It is a production that invites repeat viewing, each time revealing new layers of its magic.

As the Golden Week holiday approaches, this is a theatrical event well worth experiencing with family, friends, or loved ones.

*Cast may vary depending on the performance.