Harry Potter fans devastated by ‘horrendous’ change to Cursed Child play | Theatre | Entertainment

Back in 2016, JK Rowling’s official canonical sequel to her magical novels hit London’s Palace Theatre.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child takes place where the Deathly Hallows final chapter, 19 Years Later, left off.

The story follows the sons of Harry and Draco Malfoy, who have become best friends at Hogwarts, on a time-travelling adventure.

What’s unique about the play is that it’s in two parts, so you have to buy tickets to two plays that are performed in a matinee and evening show on the same day, four days a week.

It’s well-known for being an extended piece of lore for fans to lap up, but now a major change has been announced today for the much-loved theatrical experience.

Today, the official Instagram account for the Cursed Child London play announced: “This is your last chance to experience the spellbinding two-part play before it leaves London’s West End! Now booking through 20th September 2026, get your tickets to see the original production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

Beginning 6th October 2026, we are excited to announce that the London production will evolve into the critically acclaimed reimagined one-part version of the play.”

British Harry Potter fans have responded in the comments and they are furious that half the story is being cut out for the sake of a shorter version.

One fan wrote: “Horrendous news! I loved the play and have seen it 3 times. Both parts are magical and do not feel long at all!”

Another commented: “NOOOOOOO don’t make it just like the rest. The 2 part version was sooo special. Really loved it like this.”

While one added: “2 parts was just pure magic – almost 5 hours of being lost in this world I can’t imagine how less would be better.”

And one said: “That’s a euphemism for “heavily abridged” surely?”

At least fans still have the script book. Perhaps Warner Bros, who now own the rights, could do a filmed version of the play for streaming?