I was recently thinking about how the Harry Potter series relates to my life, and I came to the conclusion that Harry’s adventures, to me, are a tie to a time when magic and wonder were more alive in the world around me. The books and movies alike represent this magic in my life, the childlike bliss that comes out of hopes and dreams and excitement at life. Now, I want to share a way I’ve found to get in touch not only with the wonder of the series (a particularly poignant element with Deathly Hallows, Part Two reaching theaters in just a few days) but also the magic of the world.
Harry Potter: The Exhibition, a touring museum exhibit chronicling the progression of the Harry Potter series, began its final North American stop at Discovery Times Square (located on 48th Street) on April 5. I was lucky enough to be able to go and check out the exhibit rather recently, and I was thrilled with what an immersive experience it is! From the moment you enter Harry Potter: The Exhibition, magic is in the air. In a brief antechamber, some of the younger attendees are chosen to put on the Sorting Hat and find out which Hogwarts houses they belong to (an exciting and unparalleled experience for them, I’m sure), and then a quick video presentation linking the seven released movies together serves as an introduction to the main event: a walkthrough presentation of props, set pieces, and costumes actually used throughout the Harry Potter movies.
Of course, as I mentioned earlier, the exhibit is not merely something to walk by and stare at. (Although even if it were merely that, the expansive nature of items on display would still be enough to give some Potter fans chills!) No, it is an experience, featuring wonderfully well-crafted replicas of the sets used in the films, effects that are nothing short of magical— paintings in the first room actually talk to guests!— and interactive elements that truly immerse you in the world that J.K. Rowling so expertly created. If you’ve ever wanted to pluck a Mandrake like in Chamber of Secrets, take a seat in Hagrid’s oversized chair, or play part of a game of Quidditch in real life, I strongly suggest you head over, because all of these and more are part of how the exhibit makes you feel like you’re not quite a Muggle anymore.
I was very excited to visit Harry Potter: The Exhibition, and I’m really considering taking another trip over before the summer comes to a close, especially since after September 5, it moves on to locations abroad. I wouldn’t want to miss the opportunity to behold such artifacts from the series as actual costumes worn by various actors in the series, the wands and robes so strongly associated with the wonder of Harry Potter, and even such props as Harry’s glasses and the Marauder’s Map. This is truly an experience that no Potter fan should overlook, and with the fast approach of Deathly Hallows, Part 2 marking the end of the films, it’s a fitting way to cap off the fond memories shared on the silver screen with Harry and his friends.
No comments:
Post a Comment