Popcorn With Peter Travers Season 11 Episode 41 Harry Potter Stars Talk the Making of the Broadway Production

In season 11 episode 41 of Popcorn with Peter Travers, the focus is on the making of the Broadway production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. The episode features interviews with some of the stars of the production, who discuss their experiences working on such a highly anticipated and beloved theatrical event.

The episode kicks off with Travers sitting down with Jamie Parker, who plays Harry Potter in the play. Parker talks about the daunting task of taking on such an iconic role, and the pressure he felt to live up to the expectations of fans around the world. He also discusses the challenges of portraying an older, more mature Harry, who is grappling with more complex emotions and issues than he did in the original series.

Next up is Noma Dumezweni, who plays Hermione Granger. Dumezweni talks about how she approached the role of Hermione, and how she tried to make the character her own while still staying true to J.K. Rowling's original vision. She also discusses the importance of diversity in casting, and how she feels that the character of Hermione is even more meaningful now in a world where representation matters.

Travers then sits down with Anthony Boyle, who plays Scorpius Malfoy, the son of Harry's old nemesis Draco Malfoy. Boyle talks about the challenges of playing such a complex and conflicted character, who is struggling to find his place in a world that has already defined him as a villain. He also discusses the importance of the relationship between Scorpius and Albus Potter, Harry's son, and how their friendship is at the heart of the play.

Finally, Travers interviews director John Tiffany, who talks about the process of bringing Harry Potter and the Cursed Child to the stage. Tiffany discusses the challenges of adapting the story for the theater, and how he and his team worked to create a production that would be both faithful to the source material and unique in its own right. He also talks about the importance of collaboration in theater, and how he was able to bring together a talented team of actors, designers, and creatives to make the show a reality.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to behind-the-scenes footage of the actors rehearsing, as well as clips from the production itself. Fans of Harry Potter will no doubt be thrilled to get a glimpse into the making of the play, and to hear from the talented stars and creatives who brought J.K. Rowling's beloved characters to life on stage.