Review: The Magic Was Still Very Much Alive at HARRY POTTER AND THE PRISONER OF AZKABAN IN CONCERT

Nothing brings people together quite like Harry Potter. The Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO) joined the Amadeus Choir and the Elmer Iseler Singers to present the third chapter of the Harry Potter: In Concert Series - HARRY POTTER AND THE PRISONER OF AZKABAN IN CONCERT. Beyond hearing the enchanting John Williams score performed live by an incredible orchestra, the event is a unique unifier - creating a space for Potter fans to congregate and celebrate.

Produced by the Sony Centre, CineConcerts, and Attila Glatz Concert Productions, these live in concert events strip the soundtrack from the film, showcasing the score with a live orchestra - while the film is played on a giant screen behind them. Jeffrey Schindler conducted this concert with wonderful flair - even sporting a green tie and scarf as a symbol of loyalty to Slytherin house! Schindler was the perfect host for the evening, engaging the audience from the start and ensuring that there were enthusiastic responses throughout.

Unlike a normal symphonic concert, verbal engagement is encouraged at these events! You can cheer for your favourite characters, boo for the villains and laugh at the acting choices - which can be a hoot... sorry, Daniel Radcliffe.

Even with all of the audience engagement, there is still silence and space to listen to the beauty of Williams' score, performed by the outstanding Toronto Symphony Orchestra.

Having live music accompanying something as nostalgic as Harry Potter only increases the emotional response to the film: the gorgeous, soaring sections where Harry is flying Buckbeak for the first time suddenly raise goosebumps on your skin; the famous 'Hedwig's Theme' never fails to ignite excitement throughout the entire auditorium; and the moments of sincerity shared between Sirius and Harry become even more touching in this context.

It is a movie-viewing experience unlike any other.

The next film in the "Harry Potter: In Concert" series, HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIRE IN CONCERT will be presented from November 15 - November 17, 2018. You'll want to get your tickets now, as they tend to sell out pretty quickly.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit http://www.sonycentre.ca/calendar-event-details/?id=384