#emotional anguish and physical comedy would be wild with something like that.

[torestoreamends]

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Show Recap: 24/06/17 – Part One

This got so long (17,000 words in total), that I’ve split it into Part One and Part Two. Obviously this is Part One, and you can find Part Two here. 

*

There are a couple of statements I've made in the past that I'd like to address at the start of this recap. 

The first was that I never thought I'd never see the 3rd and 4th of November 2016 show matched in terms of quality or emotion. I'd like to retract that. It was matched, in a very new and different way, and if this is what the cast are doing a month in then I dread to think what sort of shows we're going to see in a few months' time. 

The second, from my first recap of this cast, was that one day Theo would come out and steal the show. I could tell from the flashes of potential that he showed. I didn't know when it would happen, but I said I hoped I would be in that theatre the day it happened. And I'm overjoyed to say that my wish has already come true. That was a whole other level. 

There are some shows that are just special, on some indefinable level. There's an electricity to them, and every single person on the stage seems to sense it and step up their game. I have no idea why they happen. I've been trying to figure out the rule for picking the best shows for the last year. But I think in the end sometimes you just get lucky enough to sit in a theatre and watch a cast collect together as a unit and deliver something that is intensely and beautifully moving. And that was this performance. 

I walked out of Part One in tears, because I've seen this cast come so far in such a short time, and I was so proud and relieved and delighted that the show finally feels polished and detailed and ready. In fact, it feels extraordinary. 

And so, onto some details. I could talk about the cast individually, but I think you'll get the idea as we go along. Let's do this. 

*

Act One 

Scenes One and Two

The first thing I remember about this performance was Theo's voice as he came storming onto the stage for the first line. I think that moment set the tone for the whole thing. It made a real impression, and from that second on, Theo was Albus, wholly and completely, in a way that I have never seen before from any Albus. More on that later (or we'll never make it any further than the first line).

Rupert was really great in this whole show. Brilliant as James, and even better as Cedric later on. I think what was clear from the get go was that this was going to be a show where everyone was bringing it. Sometimes you can tell from the first scene, and this was one of those.

Emma made a really huge impression on me right from the start. I said in my last recap that I loved her a lot, but she wasn't Ginny for me, so this time I was delighted to see that she really was Ginny. There were so many tiny bits of interaction in this scene between her and the rest of the family that I loved. At one point she went over to tell James and Ron off for laughing at Albus, and I adored the interaction between her and Albus and Harry. She was brilliant. 

I can't go a single scene without mentioning Mackley. I noticed him after the transition to Platform 9 and 3/4 just twirling round and round and enjoying his robes. 

You know you're going to get a good show when Harry and Albus give each other a huge hug on the station, and this was one of those. I thought it would never end. It was beautiful. 

Myself and one of my friends came up with a theory that Jamie G's Harry only has physical contact with Albus in the first and last scenes. While this isn't actually accurate, those are the only moments where Albus actively allows his dad to touch him, which is really heartbreaking. 

Scene Three

Helen played Rose's bits at the beginning of this scene a little less wild and excitable than normal, which I actually quite liked. She was great through the whole of the scene really. Brilliant job.

I noticed that James ends up sitting in a carriage with Madame Hooch and Professor Nuno (his character doesn't have a name I know of, so that's the best I can do). They had the most adorable interaction. Nuno kissed Madame Hooch's hand, and James giggled at the pair of them. Definitely some sort of budding professorial romance going on there. 

This is the part where I start talking about Theo. Strap in. 

So I've always loved how Albus lights up like the sun when he sees Scorpius for the first time, and in this performance it was beautiful to see. Last time I saw the show all I could see for most of it was the back of Theo's head, but I'm glad I was sitting on the opposite side of the auditorium for this one, because his face is just so expressive. He does the typical Albus crinkly-eyed smile right from the start, but it's mixed with amusement and excitement and a dozen other things. For example, when Scorpius asks if they'd like some Fizzing Whizbees, he took a step forward with his eyes all wide and enthusiastic, and he kept nodding, because of course he wants sweets. He's not allowed them at home. 

One thing to note in this scene, there were two handshakes between Scorpius and Albus. There was one little one at "That's okay. Hi!" and I was almost disappointed that it was so short, because they've been going on for so long recently. But then they grabbed hands again and did this really long and enthusiastic handshake while they were introducing themselves. 

I will never be over how indignant Samuel's Scorpius gets when his mum is accused of being a Death Eater. He's determined at all times to protect her, and it's beautiful. 

I really enjoy how, once the boys start talking, once Rose is gone, they're left alone in their little world. It's like for a moment nothing else exists. They have these solitary moments on the train, and I love that they can be that for each other. The place where the rest of the world melts away and they don't have to worry for a while. 

I still adore how Theo really thinks about whether he wants to be called Albus or Al. The thinking was less pronounced in this show than it was during the first, and I actually liked that even more, because while he does still carefully consider, it's also a very positive and almost obvious choice for him to go with Albus. 

Transition Scene 

This performance was a master class in how to pick up things which have been dropped on stage while remaining in character. I was really impressed with how the cast handled all four of the incidents, the first two of which happened in this scene. 

Somehow a book (Scorpius's book?) ended up on the floor near where the sorting was happening, and Sarah ran past and grabbed it on the way into the flying lesson scene. Then later, the balled up Hogsmeade Permission Form fell out of Theo's pocket during the wand dance, so Mackley picked it up and taunted him with it. "You dropped your piece of paper!" 

I love how during the sorting, McGonagall has her hands on the boys' shoulders, and gives them each a gentle shove towards the front when it's their turn. It's both caring and firm. Perfect for her. 

The energy in this transition scene was just phenomenal. It came from everyone, and it was fantastic. It felt palpable. 

Rose's 'up!' didn't work in the flying lesson, but Helen handled it really well. In the end she just snatched the broom up and looked defiantly around at everyone. She's Rose Granger-Weasley, of course this is meant to work! No one would dare say a word against her Quidditch abilities. 

Scorpius gave Albus a commiseratory little shake of the head at the end of the flying lesson, like he was sorry he couldn't have helped. 

Rupert did the classic Milligan "Da-ad!" which I've not seen him do before. 

If anyone ever has the fortune of sitting near @the-eighth-story for the show, just watch her reactions whenever James Howard is on stage. They're classic. You will not be disappointed. 

Have I mentioned yet that James Howard is literally the perfect Draco? From his upright manner and silky voice, to the way he perfectly balances seriousness and comedy. It's a really amazing performance. 

There was a really nice bit of interaction between Samuel and Theo during the potion brewing. I loved the concentration with which Albus added the horn of Bicorn, and the little nod Scorpius gave him. They were both trying so hard to focus on it, but it was impossible. 

There's so much pain and resentment in the way Theo says "Everything", and it's the perfect set up for the next little scene. Albus's little tirade there was beautiful. It's not vindictive like Sam's was, nothing Theo's Albus does is vindictive, instead it comes from an intense inner pain. Most of what Theo's Albus does comes from there in fact. 

The way Mark delivered the second Sorting Hat speech was really captivating. I've never before felt so strongly that the Hat was addressing the audience. That first line draw me in so much, and there's such a weight to "you'll learn to laugh if first you sob". I've said it before and I'll keep saying it, I love so many of the things Mark does. And maybe this was the point where I began to be sucked more into the story than I was into watching the acting. 

There was a distinct difference between this show and the last I saw. Last time I was just excited to see the actors doing well. This time I forgot all about anyone doing well and I was mesmerised, for the first time in a year, in the story and in the characters. That was what made it so powerful. The ability to forget that I'd seen this play so many times and just become absorbed in what was going on. 

Mackley is a really great dancer. I used to enjoy watching Jack North in this scene because I appreciated his movement and his commitment, and I feel the same about Mackley, both in this scene and in others. 

"I didn't choose, you know that?" was so broken. An outpouring of anguish. The softness and pain of Theo's Albus makes him exceptionally sympathetic. 

Scene Six

I don't know for sure if Barry was aware that this was the anniversary of Cedric's death (I know Rupert did), but this was definitely one of his most potent performances ever. He's always excellent, and seems to constantly raise his level, but this one had some real bite to it. 

I loved the beginning to the Delphi and Albus chat on the stairs a lot. Annabel didn't do the usual thing of threatening Albus with her wand, instead it was clear right from the start that she was joking around with the "I'm a thief" stuff. It made the interaction a touch more relaxed, and Albus was just amused by her presence right from the start. 

I was a bit sad I couldn't see all of Theo's listening on the stairs routine because of the angle I was at, but I caught the end of it. This cast does some exceptional background acting. More on that later. 

When Delphi goes off to join the Amos and Harry conversation, she gives Albus a little robot wave, and it's really adorable. 

Scene Seven 

I've noticed that in the transition into the blanket scene (and at another moment too, although I can't remember which one, maybe it's in Godric's Hollow?) Theo walks right to the front of the stage and has a moment of connection with the audience. I don't think Sam ever did that on such a noticeable level. I'm still not sure what I think of it. On the one hand I like the direct expression of emotion, but at the same time I wish the focus went straight into the next scene. 

I absolutely loved Ginny's love for her kids at the beginning of this scene. When James came storming through with pink hair she was clearly trying not to smile too much and encourage him, but she didn't seem able to help herself. I also loved the little interaction between Ginny and Harry, when Harry was on his way into the room.

Theo looks so tiny when he's sitting cross-legged on the bed. Tiny and forlorn. 

This is probably a good time to talk about Albus's pain! So I've noticed that Theo takes a very different approach to this scene than Sam used to. Sam's Albus was always a bit vindictive, provocative even. He used to try and almost goad his dad, and the result was that it backfired spectacularly on him. But with Theo, you get a sense that he doesn't want to be arguing, he doesn't want to be fighting, but he doesn't have a choice. He needs his dad to understand how miserable he is, and if shouting is the only way to do it then that's what he'll do. There are moments when you can see Harry's words hurting him and forcing him to take drastic action, for example the packing line, and "I'm not going to rise to your bait". It's brilliant and heartbreaking. I absolutely love the genuine, in the moment emotion that Theo brings to Albus. He was living Albus in this show, and it was amazing.

Another script difference I've noticed in this scene between the two Jamies is: "And maybe I could come and find you -- and it -- on Hallows' Eve". Jamie P used to put the emphasis on Albus (it and you), whereas Jamie G does it by the book. While I adored Jamie P's way of doing it, I equally love the line the other way around, and it works for this father-son relationship. Jamie G's Harry doesn't realise that Albus might want to be found on Hallows' Eve. He makes it sound like it's all about the blanket. And I can imagine that that aches for Albus, and leads to him wanting to end the conversation before it hurts any more. 

I love how Theo's Albus doesn't get up off the bed until things really start to get heated ("Should we bow now, or will a curtsey do?")

The only thing I wanted more of from Theo in this scene was a tiny bit more of an explosion on the second "What?" I like the variation, and the build through that line. Otherwise it was a really exceptional performance. I can't handle having an Albus and Scorpius who can both cry when needed, but that's what we've got, and we're all going to have to learn to deal with it. Somehow. I'd recommend taking lots of tissues to the theatre with you. 

I loved the end of this scene. The most explosive I've seen from both of them. There's a really great gritty quality to Jamie's voice when he shouts. It's more roaring than shouting, and it was used to really great effect here. Theo's shouting is also A+. They don't get nearly as close to each other as Jamie P and Sam did, but that really isn't a problem for me. That distance suits them and their relationship. I don't think Theo's Albus could stand having his dad screaming in his face. It might break him. It's bad enough as it is. 

Albus reels back after Harry's line, and Harry is full of this instant regret. He seems desperate to take it all back right away (just like Draco is desperate to take back slamming Scorpius to the desk in the Voldy timeline), but Albus is already shattered. 

When Albus throws the blanket onto the bed he pauses for a moment and looks at it before running away, like he's considering what he's just done, how he's just disparaged the gift from his dad and what that might mean. But then he seems to decide he's in too much pain to care so he storms out. I love the extra time he takes on that moment. It puts the perfect cap on the scene, and emphasises the importance of the moment when Albus throws the blanket onto the bed. It definitely seems like an action he'd remember. 

Scene Eight 

I'm delighted to report that Mark can definitely now walk down the stairs in those Hagrid shoes. 

Harrison is still my favourite little Harry. At the end of the scene, when the stairs were being wheeled off, he sat down and looked at the cake he'd been given in amazement, trying to take in all this new information he'd just been told. He's a brilliant little actor. 

Scene Nine

I loved Emma's delivery of "yeah, maybe don't be that honest". Perfectly dry, perfectly Ginny. 

This is the first time in the show that Harry hears that Albus just wants to see the real him. It takes him so long for it to actually sink in. The way this whole cast support that arc is brilliant, and it all serves to make the eventual reconciliation all the sweeter. 

It's such a cute little Hinny moment when Harry puts his hand on Ginny's knee as he explains that the quote is from Dumbledore, and then she puts her hand over his. 

Scenes Ten and Eleven 

Poor Mackley is sitting in a carriage all on his own. Why does Karl have no friends? Someone go and sit with him! 

This was the scene where the boys really started nailing it as a pair. There was already so much energy coming out of the transition scene, but here it started to fly. 

Helen is just brilliant. I love her sweet, caring, young-seeming Rose. There's a lovely quality there. She perfectly suits the two boys. They all have this really young, innocent feel to them. And I really do enjoy how she's trying to bond with Albus in this scene and he's having none of it. He keeps pulling away and looking down the corridor to find Scorpius until the moment when he finally breaks through. 

It's beautiful how Albus goes from irritable, jaw all set and square when he's talking to Rose, to just breaking into a huge smile the second he sees Scorpius. It's like he opens up around Scorpius. He spends so much time breaking inside, as does Scorpius, and the moment they're together they can just forget everything for a little bit.  

Albus absolutely despairs of Scorpius during the little bread rant. He keeps looking at him and shaking his head as if to say no, stop, you're embarrassing yourself. But Scorpius pays no attention and ploughs on. 

I don't know about anyone else, but I find it really entertaining to watch the preparation for the hug. I always notice so clearly how Samuel sits down for a brief moment, then stands up again. This is one of the moments where his flaily little hand gestures really shine. 

The hug itself is just perfect, because Albus couldn't be more committed to it if he tried, whereas Scorpius doesn't hug back. I also love the intensity of Samuel's "Do we hug?" There's a bit of pointing between the two of them, and his tone just says 'Albus Severus Potter stop being weird'.

When Albus climbs up onto the roof, Scorpius remained in the train for a moment, looking really hesitant and frustrated. He gestured like he was seriously considering strangling Albus for his impulsiveness, but that he also knew he couldn't leave Albus to his fate, so he followed him. 

Sandy is fantastic as the trolley witch. I don't think I've said this nearly enough. I love her accent, and I love the familiarity of her performance. Also, in this show I noticed the hand swipe she does towards Albus and Scorpius after the jump, which I don't think I've noticed for a while. 

I can't help but wonder whether Scorpius will later take immense pleasure in being right about the train being magical. I can just imagine him during the trek to St Oswald's complaining to Albus, reminding him over and over again of just how bad a idea the whole thing was. 

Samuel did a tiny hesitation before saying Molliare, like Scorpius still thought it was a terrible idea to jump. 

On a partially related note, wouldn't you just love the chance to try diving onto one of those mats in the wings? They always look so squishy and comfy. 

Scene Twelve

I can't tell you much about what the majority of people were up to in this scene because I was watching a. James Howard, and b. @the-eighth-story‘s reactions to James Howard. I'm still not sure which I enjoyed more. 

I've always noticed the group of elder statesmen who arrive through the middle of the scene towards the end of the transition (the Sorting Hat and co), but this time I noticed an equally important looking group of women arriving in from one of the wings which made me happy. I've never seen them before. 

Did I mention Josh's moustache last time? Josh is wearing a fake moustache in this scene and it's hilarious. 

Also, I'm not sure if I've mentioned this already, but I love the little Weasley siblings interaction around Hermione's speech about the battle of Hogwarts. When the subject comes up, Ron comes over and touches Ginny's arm, and they put their arms round each other. It's the perfect way of showing how they're still grieving the loss of their brother. I like that that moment is just about applauding the victory, when so much of this play is about Harry's baggage and the people who died for The Boy Who Lived. I should watch Jamie specifically during that moment next time, because I'm certain he has an equally sombre reaction. 

I say I was only watching James, but clearly that wasn't true cause I distinctly remember Nicola being one of the people who leads the charge from the room. I'm not sure which side she was on (maybe she was on no one's side), but Draco was yelling directly at her at one point, and then she stormed off. 

Alright. Let's talk about James. I love the desolation and anger in his face. I love how you can see Draco's frustration building and building until he can't contain himself. His 'my scar is hurting' this time was a classic. The first time through the phrase was about the normal level of mockery, but he escalated it when he repeated it. I simply adore the posh voice he puts on, that's the perfect slight on Jamie's Harry. At some point I should watch some reactions to that, but I doubt it'll happen any time soon. 

One of the things I like most is how James specifically addresses "his celebrity impacts upon you all" to Ron, and to Ginny, but mostly Ron. It's warning and goading all at once, and it's great. 

Emma's "the sports pages" was super fierce this time and I enjoyed it immensely. 

Scene Thirteen and Fourteen 

I'm pleased to report that I've finally got over the disappointment of the kids not playing the inmates of St Oswald's. Although I'm still a bit upset that we don't get to see James P and Mackley and April and all the rest run around pretending to be old people, the adults are totally smashing it, and it's nice that they get something fun to do in the play that really features them. Also I'm never not going to be a fan of anything that involves Martin in a dress, or that allows Nuno to stretch his acting wings for a bit. 

I still love how Delphi summons Amos's wall, and I equally love that the boys aren't scared when she does it. They really do trust her, even Scorpius. I never feel the intense dislike from Samuel's Scorpius that I did from Anthony's. 

The scene in Amos's room is absolutely one of Theo's top three or four scenes. He's just incredible at it. Each time I've seen it Albus has been filled with more and more confidence and authority. This time around he spent the whole of Amos's speech trying to interrupt and explain himself until the moment when he couldn't handle it anymore and barged his way into the conversation. 

I used to spend this whole scene just watching Scorpius's background reactions, but right now Albus is just as interesting as he gets increasingly more frustrated. It's Amos's accusation of relying on his famous name that gets him most riled up and wanting to defend himself. 

By the way, has anyone else noticed the parallel between Scorpius in this scene and in the maze? In this scene he's questioning whether they're ready to risk their lives, but in the maze scene he's the one suggesting it. I love that character growth. The events of Acts Two and Three have such an impact on him.

Scene Fifteen 

This was another of the great Emma scenes from this show. I think after the first show there were a lot of comments going around about how she and Tom don't feel like siblings, but they definitely do. Their banter in this scene is lovely, and I really enjoy how she's taking care of the whole family here. 

Tom's reaction to "I will tell Mum" was brilliant. Ron looks all taken aback with her, like there's no higher threat and he can't believe she'd stoop so low. 

Scene Sixteen 

I've mentioned this before, but I love how jittery Delphi gets in this scene. She's constantly tapping her feet and glancing at the clock, and looking around to check they're not being watched. I was about to say it's the first sign of Delphi's true nature, but that's not actually true. One of the cool details of Annabel's performance is that when she's in the background of the earlier scenes with her hood up, she's constantly watching Albus. She was on the platform at one point, keeping an eye on him. Really sinister. 

The Polyjuice transitions were super smooth during this show. Last time I saw it I think Rakie's head got a bit stuck, and it took ages for her to find the hole of the robes, but this one worked really well, and it was the same for the boys too. 

One of the things this cast does really well is how in character the adults are as the kids. Rakie in particular is totally channelling Delphi once she's transformed. She does a lot of Delphi's giggling and tongue sticking out. She was going for it so much in this performance that I actually couldn't focus on the boys' dialogue before their transformations. 

This is another scene where the original cast did not stick to the script. Every time Jamie G says "I be him and you be Ron" I panic that he's got the line wrong, but nope. Jamie P just said it in his own random order. 

Scene Seventeen

I finally managed to pay attention to Harry's reaction to the "My son is missing!" exchange. He sort of buries his face in his hands, like the full enormity of what's happened is hitting him, and he's realising that this really is all his fault because of what he said to Albus. He's finally said it out loud, and now he regrets it more than ever. 

James's Draco never makes it to the word "heir". He doesn't need a look from Ginny or anyone else to know that Scorpius is so much more than his heir. Scorpius is his family, his son, and he's heartbroken by the loss of him. 

Scenes Eighteen and Nineteen 

I have several favourite things from the baby or a holiday scene. 

Number one -- I love that Albus has clearly never kissed anyone before. He goes in with his arms pressed to his sides and it's the most awkward thing ever. 

Number two -- The way Tom plays Albus's reaction to kissing Hermione. He goes off into his own little corner and starts wiping his lips and pulling the most disgusted face. 

Number three -- (I promise these aren't all Tom things.) The forlorn way Albus stands in the doorway, hands by his sides, head bowed, looking small and like he doesn't know what to do and he doesn't quite dare stand up to his aunt. 

Number four -- Jamie Glover is absolutely spectacular at the end of this scene. One of the best comedic moments of the whole play actually. He plays it perfectly. When the attention switches to him he looks between Ron and Hermione like he's absolutely appalled and has no idea what he just saw happen, then he walks really stiffly away, like 'this didn't just happen... I'm not scarred for life... everything is fine'. It's hilarious. 

I've just realised the one thing that the original cast did by the script but the new cast don't! Rakie never leaves the stage before the "you are off the scale" line, even though that's a specific stage direction. It works quite well with Jamie exiting alone, but it is weird to find something that this cast doesn't do by the book.

Again, I really enjoy the way Rakie, Tom, and Jamie work together on the first riddle. It's very nicely done, and they do a great job of pointing the audience towards the right answer. 

Samuel's celebrations at getting the book back are always really good. I think this one involved sticking both his hands in the air in delight. I'd heard that Theo also did really great celebrations, including a pirouette one time, but sadly we didn't get one of those at this show. 

I remember really loving what Theo did once Albus saw that Scorpius and the book. I can't remember the expression on his face, but I remember watching him and thinking it was great. 

*

My overriding impression of Act One was just of accomplishment. The cast felt solid, and there was a detail and richness to everything that I hadn't seen before from them. They did an exceptional job really. And Theo was so consistently brilliant that when @thatwasdramatic and I met in the loos we just hugged each other as tight as we could without even having to say a word. 

With this cast, their Part Two has always been vastly better than their Part One, so I didn't expect anything so spectacular in the first half. I especially didn't expect the Act Two that I was about to see.

Before this show I still didn't totally trust the cast to be continually amazing. I went into Act Two thinking that while Act One was great, it might have just been a fluke. There's been an inconsistency the first two times I saw them. Some scenes a lot stronger than others, just because of rehearsal time. So I started Act Two with a bit of nervousness, about some cast members more than others, but that was very quickly blown away completely. 

*

Act Two

Scenes One and Two 

Elizabeth is so brilliantly consistent across all the roles she plays. I absolutely love her Petunia. I think she hits exactly the right note.

Emma and Theo almost hit their mark for the effect with the light shining on their faces. Almost. I think the light ended up on Emma's cheek and shoulder, which was a bit of a shame. That's one of my favourite moments in the show. However, Theo's yelling for his dad was A+. I had started this act with my fingers crossed for him, but quickly realised that that really wasn't necessary. 

I love the way Emma says "You were", in response to Harry's comment about how he was sleeping. I've seen it be almost a question in the past, but when it's said as a statement it's almost like Ginny is reassuring Harry, telling him that yes, he's okay, it was just a nightmare. 

Scene Four

The first thing Theo did in this scene was not manage to catch the wand. It sort of shot out of his grip and he fumbled it between both hands to try not to drop it. It gave Delphi's line about him getting it now a different sort of twist, overly optimistic, instead of just relieved and positive. 

The second Expelliarmus he didn't even try to catch. He sort of cheated it and pulled it out of his sleeve himself. In the past I've complained that we never see Albus fail a spell, but we definitely saw it in this show, and it made the moment of disarming Cedric all the more triumphant. 

The wizzo hand wiggle was somehow even more ridiculous in this show? There was a sort of pause before it that really emphasised it. 

In case anyone's interested, there's an added line in this scene. Delphi now says: "I'll just keep in the background and try to look clever. Ooo, maybe I could pretend to be a dragon tamer!" The 'try to look clever' is an addition to the script. 

I love how you can see in Delphi in this scene that she's terrified of being out of control once time changes. She knows she won't be the same, and she can hardly handle it. The fidgeting, the panic, and her final attempt to convince Albus that he needs to find her and trust her once time changes. 

I also love how Theo looks genuinely all pale and red after the kiss, just sort of discombobulated. And Samuel delivers that line brilliantly. He delivers every line brilliantly, let's be honest, but the little lean in and emphasising how ridiculous his best friend looks at that moment. 

And then my favourite fact about the end of this scene is that, despite the kiss from Delphi, despite everything, Albus still takes the opportunity to wrap his arm round Scorpius as they run off. Because Theo's Albus cannot keep his hands to himself for even a second. If there's a Scorpius in the vicinity, that Scorpius is getting hugged. 

Scene Five 

I managed to spot individual faces in the Forbidden Forest scene, which might have been due to a lighting error? Anyway, I spotted Mackley looking for Scorpius and Albus, so that was nice. 

The reason I think there was a lighting error is because I have been informed by people who were sitting more centrally than I was that you could see Bane's back end in this show. This is the second time I've heard of this happening in the last few weeks. Thankfully, however, I was at an angle to stage where Bane's back end was blocked out by the trees, so it didn't bother me. 

The one thing that frustrates me with this scene is the lack of nuance in Jamie's calling for Albus and Scorpius that bookends the conversation with Bane. It's all on one level, and I wish he'd be more scared about searching for his son. Other than that, this scene is great, but I want more of the searching, especially at the end when Harry's just found out that his son is in danger.

Scene Six 

There was a scarily long gap at the start of this scene before the black curtain came up and the boys stepped forward. But once they got going absolutely nothing went wrong. 

This was the scene where I started crying, and then didn't stop for the rest of the Act. I think it was a combination of it being my anniversary show, and the way the boys delivered the scene that set me off. 

The first time I saw this cast, there was a wonder in the way Samuel played it, and it was so genuine and beautiful. And even now, a month later, he still has that genuine sense of awe, and Theo is delivering a similar thing now too. 

This was another of those scenes where I was mostly focused on Theo, because I didn't have the opportunity to watch him last time, and I loved the expression in his face. At first he was just looking out, almost caught up in Scorpius's excitement, then when he got to "it turned out to be terrible after all" there was something in his face. It wasn't a hardness, but there was more of a set to his jaw. Theo's Albus spends so much time smiling, but there wasn't a hint of a smile there. And then the second his dad was mentioned it turned to pure horror and he looked away from Hogwarts and right at the Scorpius. But then Scorpius said how Albus was his best friend, and again it was like the sun coming out, relief and delight. 

When Albus tells Scorpius that he's his best friend, he grips him by the shoulders and looks him right in the eye. 

Scene Seven 

Tom Mackley needs to work on his French or Fleur will never love him. That's all I have to say on that topic.

Josh's search for Mackley in the crowd still continues. This time he popped out of the crowd where Mackley normally is and discovered he wasn't there. So he had a quick chat to someone (I think it was April) before diving back into the crowd again, and this time popping out right where Mackley was for a hug. 

For the first time in ages I actually managed to pay attention to the boys in this scene. They were doing such a good job that even Mackley couldn't properly distract me. 

Scorpius looked so excited to see Rose there, bless him. He lit up almost as bright as Albus does. And then after that he and Albus did the murmuring to each other where Scorpius apologises for messing up. 

I don't think Samuel's mic was working for one of his lines. It sort of cut in halfway through. I could hear it because I was near the stage, but it was fairly essential as it was the explanation that the Time-Turner was going on. Thankfully, in the last few weeks Samuel has figured out how to correct mistakes without drawing everyone's attention to them. He calmly repeated the lines a bit later in the scene, just before Albus collapsed, and it worked so well that I almost thought I'd misremembered the script. 

Theo's falling to the ground and screaming was amazing. This cast are really good at the spark effect. I always feel like it's timed to a tee. It happens three times in the show (Albus's arm, the chair in the duel scene, and Ron's leg), and each time the spark really flies and is really visible to the audience. It always happens at the perfect moment to give it the most outward trajectory. 

The end of this scene is one of the exceptions to the rule that Harry never touches Albus. Actually here, when Albus collapsed, he was looking right at his dad, and Harry was the only one there to catch him. He wrapped his arms round him and held him up so firmly. It was perfect. 

Scene Eight 

All Harry's mistakes in the second timeline are just attempts to fix the things he did earlier really, aren't they? When Dumbledore says about looking for what's wounding him, Harry's already been reflecting on what Ginny told him. "Haven't I seen him as he is?" He thinks he's already got Albus sussed, even though he really hasn't. My point is, the clarity with which this cast play out this arc is getting better and better, and more complete, by the performance. 

Jamie definitely ate the chocolate in this performance. I don't know if he always does, but I could see and hear him chomping. 

I think the biggest difference between the last show and this show, in terms of Theo's acting, was that in this show it didn't feel like he was acting at all. He was living Albus's pain and despair in every single second. He was Albus, wholly and completely, and it was the most amazing thing to see. Even his posture had changed and become freer. I know what it looks like when it's Theo on stage and not Albus, and in this show there wasn't an ounce of Theo anywhere to be seen. 

There was one moment in particular where Harry was in full angry flow, and Albus was just looking up at him and clearly breaking inside. The juxtaposition between the two, the solid wall of Harry's intent, and Albus's soft, desperate sadness, was so painful and beautiful. It was the perfect example of Harry not seeing his son, and you could see that Albus felt it to the core: ignored, shut out, misunderstood. That was the only reason he threatened to run away again, because it was the only way to make his dad pay attention. 

One of the things that this cast does, which the originals didn't do, is that they stick rigidly to the script. I saw the originals drops bits of lines, or even add words to the ends of lines if they were meant to be interrupted but hadn't been yet. Sometimes that rigidity works, and sometimes it doesn't. I think it depends on the day and the actor and how in character they're being. A perfect example of it working was Theo's: "The robes were... the whole thing". On this occasion he felt lost for words, searching for the right way to explain without giving himself away. It would be easy for those to sound like they're coming from the script, but this time they didn't, and I was really happy about that. 

Harry just totally doesn't notice Albus's comment about not fitting in at Hogwarts. He's so absorbed with the Scorpius train of thought that he ignores what's staring him right in the face. How miserable his son is. 

I love how Jamie plays Harry's authority. In this scene he planted himself squarely on the stage, hands on the back of the chair, glaring at Albus. He really uses his posture as a weapon. It's weird because I never noticed the original cast's posture, but with this cast I really do. I've heard people talk about how this cast are more physical than the originals, and while I'm not sure I agree with that statement across the board, there are certainly some physical aspects that really stand out to me, like posture. 

Scene Nine 

I loved the moment where Albus tries to assert himself. Albus took the innate authority that he's inherited from his dad and tried to spin it back on Harry, drawing himself up all tall and powerful. But the second Harry headed him off he sort of crumpled again. 

When Scorpius appeared on the stairs I noticed that Albus didn't actually look at him once. It was like he couldn't bring himself to do it. It hurt too much. He gave a cursory glance over his shoulder, but made no effort to actually meet Scorpius's eyes, which was heartbreaking. 

Scene Eleven 

Mackley turns round and does a sarcastic little clap at Albus when he starts losing points for Gryffindor. 

Rake is so unhinged in this scene, it's amazing. Hermione isn't angry so much, just sort of completely shattered. Not even a bit of herself. She's all over the place, and seems on the verge of tears the entire time. She goes from these hysterical little giggles to shouting to having to compose herself so she doesn't cry, and the whole time she's just sort of shaky. I also noticed in this scene that her wand has a curve to it, so when she holds it like a knife it really does look like a lethal weapon, although she never threatens Albus with it in the way Noma or Nicola would. 

When Rakie says "you're invisible friend" she puts this little lisp on, totally mocking Albus.

So @thatwasdramatic has this theory that when Theo is on fire he doesn't kick his stool nearly as far. In this show it barely moved the first time (it sort of fell and hit the desk and bounced back), and the second time it skidded about an inch but stayed upright. So the theory has yet to be disproved. (It's also likely that someone told him to stop trying to kick the stool into the audience, which I appreciate on behalf of everyone who ever sits in Row A. I can't imagine it would be fun having that thing fall on your head.) 

Hermione's final speech in this scene was brilliant. She was such a mess, so unable to get her words out or keep focused or anything, that when Rakie got to the words "a projection of all your most positive feelings" she actually got a laugh. Hermione had no positive feelings in this scene. The irony was brilliant. 

Scene Twelve 

I cried again. Because how could you not with these two? 

Albus was just a tiny little broken shell, and Scorpius wasn't much better. I actually think it was one of the most beautiful staircase scenes I've watched. 

Theo has stolen the thing Sam used to do where he'd wipe his eyes while walking under the staircase where Scorpius is sitting, but in this show he was actually crying while he did that. He buried his face in his hands and I heard this broken little sob, and it was the most awful thing. 

At the end of the scene Samuel starts walking down the stairs, a step at a time, in perfect timing with the music, looking desperately at Albus who can't look back. 

I've been told by people who could see into the wings Theo's wheeled off into, that at the end of the scene Albus crumpled onto the stairs and buried his face in his hands and sobbed. On my side, I saw Samuel sit down on the stairs and sort of stare down at his feet in despair. I later noticed him adjusting the Time-Turner pouch, in case anyone's interested. 

I think this is a good time to explain why this show was equally as good as the 3rd and 4th of November, but in completely the opposite way. On the 4th, the adults in Act Four particularly broke my heart. There wasn't a scene where they weren't all in tears. It got to the point where you needed the boys to come back on stage just for some respite from the overwhelming emotion. And this show was exactly the same, except in this show the overwhelming emotion came from the two boys in Act Two. I was desperate for the duel and McGonagall's office for a bit of respire. Every single scene they spent in tears, and the level of acting from both of them was just astounding. It was a privilege to watch. 

Scene Thirteen

I still love how Emma's "saved by the door" is a threat to Harry, not Ginny being relieved. 

James is so smooth in this scene. Smooth and to the point. It's the perfect example of businesslike Draco. It does it at just the perfect pace. So purposeful. 

The last show I saw I finally managed to spot the hand holds on the back of Jamie's suit jacket. Draco has on an extra coat in this scene, which has the straps for the lifters to grab, but I'd never managed to spot Harry's before. 

James always says "you've threatened both teacher and Albus himself", whereas in the script it's plural. I wonder if it'll get changed in the definitive edition? Technically we do only ever see Harry threaten one teacher. 

The duel this time was a lot slicker than the first time I saw it, and Jamie is definitely nailing the Flipendo now. His landing was no more awkward or hard than Jamie P's ever was.

My favourite bit of the duel was the Mobilicorpus. I'm not sure who was doing the lifting (I'm just going to assume it was Nuno), but they were totally going for it with slamming Jamie into the table. Also I noticed that he seems to do really big gestures during this, and I wonder if whoever is playing Harry is the one controlling the speed of it. In this particular show the speed was quite slow, although like I say, the slamming itself was brutal.

Scene Fourteen

Delphi entered this scene with her hood up, which was a pretty cool throwback to her earlier stalking of the boys through the background of the opening scenes. 

Samuel's reaction to hearing she was too ill for Hogwarts was really sweet. Scorpius seemed a tiny bit stunned by it. He sat down on the stairs and immediately started paying a lot more attention to her. It was a really sympathetic gesture, like he was getting ready to listen to all her problems.

When the other student walked past, Scorpius not only hid Delphi with his legs, but he actually draped his robes over he back to hide her, and tried to look all cool and casual, sort of patting her back and trying to pretend everything was fine. Albus and Scorpius should not be allowed to attempt to look casual. It just doesn't work for them. 

I love how miserable Samuel's "oh" is, when he hears that Delphi is there to sort out him and Albus. It's sort of hard and not at all receptive. Scorpius has no desire to do anything to do with Albus. 

Scene Fifteen 

James and Jamie make a really big thing of putting their wands down on the table at the start of this scene, which makes it even more entertaining, especially with Emma giving them a 'go on, behave' look. 

Draco looked at his wedding ring the second he started talking about Astoria. It's like James just can't help himself. He's determined to break our hearts with that thing. 

I really love how James's "Don't lose the boy" is quite soft but still authoritative and commanding in the most Draco way. I think he got to his feet for that line, and was sort of hunched over the table, looking at Harry and pointing at him. 

It really did feel like Harry was leading the way to get the Floo Powder in this scene. He had the time to think, and then he was the first to reach for his wand and get to his feet, with the others following close behind but not too close. 

Scene Sixteen 

I have never, and possibly will never again, see such an incredible version of this scene. It was the perfect storm of both Samuel and Theo giving absolutely everything at the top of their game, along with an audience who were clearly so deeply invested in the story. 

I often think that the mark of a good audience is how much they applaud, how much noise they make for the tricks and things. But in this case we had an audience that was 100% invested and committed in the story, and you could hear a pin drop during this scene. You could feel the energy in the room and it was electric. In a way, that level of intense investment is just as important as applause and laughter, and I'm really glad I was there to experience it.

We had the classic little giggles at Scorpius's crush on Rose, which just proves that it's all down to how ridiculously Samuel emphasises it in this scene.

I loved how when Albus interrupted Scorpius's speech about who took who to the Yule Ball, it was out of irritation. He knows all this! He doesn't need Scorpius lecturing him about it. Scorpius may be the history nerd but Albus reads books too. Except clearly he doesn't in this universe, because he still has no idea what's going on. 

The audience loved Scorpius's "I'm pretty sure your dad is exactly the same". 

Samuel and Theo don't get nearly as loud in this scene as Sam and Anthony used to. They almost don't deserve to be told off. They could have been a lot rowdier. However, they definitely escalated the volume a lot more in this show than I've seen before. 

I could see Albus's fixation on the task in hand during the last few lines before Scorpius's explosion. He was throwing in Rose's name just to appease Scorpius, but really it was all about Cedric. He's still preoccupied with his dad, still desperate to do the right thing and get his dad to pay attention to him. He wasn't even thinking about Rose before Scorpius started talking about her, and she's only part of the plan because Albus doesn't want to do this alone, but Scorpius won't help him if she isn't involved. 

The boys were really going for it with the wrestling in this one. I think they wrestle for a lot longer and with a lot more commitment than Sam and Anthony used to. Theirs was almost a cursory little back and forth, but this is a proper fight. 

And then we hit Scorpius's speech, and both sides were just incredible. Their dynamic on stage is very well matched. They have the perfect amount of give and take between them, and they let each other have their moments, while continuing to act their socks off even when it's the other person's moment to shine. In this scene there was a moment where I looked between the two of them and just thought wow. Here we have two exceptional young actors, who right now are matching each other in terms of performance, and helping each other give their best. This is rare, and this is special. The talent on display in this scene on Saturday was mind blowing and really emotional. We're really lucky as fans and as an audience to be able to see these two together. They're going to give us great stuff over the next year. It's really exciting. 

On one side of the equation you had Samuel, breaking down harder than ever. I couldn't see his face but I could hear the tears in his voice. Scorpius was just falling apart completely. I always valued James Le Lacheur's performances for the emotional commitment to this speech, and Samuel does the exact same thing. He pulls himself apart and loses it in this moment, all the pain flooding out from behind that thin, fragile Malfoy front. 

And on the other side of the equation you had Theo, silent apart from the interjections (which were spot on in terms of delivery), but saying so much with just his face. It was a captivating bit of acting. He started off really hard and closed off, because how on earth could Scorpius's life be worse than his? And how dare Scorpius tell him to be okay with something so painful as the bullying he faces every day? But then Scorpius starts talking about his mum, and Albus's face just transformed. It immediately softened and broke, as he understood the anguish and realised what he'd done to his best friend and felt absolutely horrified by it. 

I'm pretty sure they were both crying by the end of the speech, and when Albus went to get the Invisibility Cloak, the lines were all cracked and fragile and broken. 

We had a brief moment of respite while McGonagall was searching the library, which was much needed because I at least was in tears. 

When the boys came back out, Scorpius sat stony faced while Albus talked about the cloak. But then the second Albus said sorry, with this heartfelt desperation, Scorpius turned to look at him in amazement. It was like despite everything he didn't expect Albus to actually apologise. Maybe he expected him to leave again, but it definitely wasn't for him to say sorry like that.

One thing I love about Theo's Albus is that he's so full up with pain, you can see it inside him the whole time. He's lost and aching and so upset, and it hurts him so much, but when he realises that someone else needs help, he finds the room in his heart to reach out to them. He does it for Scorpius and he does it for his dad too. He still has so much love in there, even though the pain is welling over. I think that's my favourite thing about the character he's playing. 

The apology meant that Scorpius's little "thanks" was really genuine, and it was accompanied by him trying to tidy up some of his tears a bit. 

Again, I absolutely love how hearing that Harry's department is investigating the rumours is Scorpius's worst nightmare. That destroys him. But Albus immediately leans in to reassure him that no. There's no way they can find anything because Scorpius is so good. 

I adore how Samuel's Scorpius recovers from the depths of his despair so quickly. He goes from crying to mocking Albus in about a second. It's very sweet. 

Samuel pronounces every single letter in the word 'always'. He stretches it out and makes something really important of it. 

When Albus says he’s had a really good idea, Scorpius was so irate about him not getting the conversation they’d just had that he dropped to his knees and flailed his hands in the air in disbelief. Despite this, Scorpius ended up genuinely impressed with Albus's strategy. Poor naive boy. He should know by now that Albus's plans are terrible. 

The way Albus said "I can do it without you -- but I want you there," in this show was just perfect. It didn't sound like he actually was convinced he could do it alone. He desperately needed Scorpius with him. Also, it's the perfect turnaround from the train, where he knows he'll mess up if Scorpius doesn't come, so he forces Scorpius to come, but this time he knows he can do it, but gives Scorpius the option to join him anyway. And of course Scorpius agrees to come. 

Scene Seventeen

I don't think I was paying attention to this scene because I was still recovering from the library. I remember tuning in sometime around the 'friends' exchange, and thinking that the way Tom played it was beautiful. There wasn't the awkwardness, Ron was just sort of rambling away about friends and then slipped, which destroyed Hermione. It didn't feel like there was a barrier between them as such, it just felt like they were each playing a part, and suddenly the mask slipped and everything underneath was laid bare. It was really lovely

At the end of the scene, as he was wheeled out into the wings Ron walked down the stairs, then back up the stairs, then back down them again. It was like he had no idea what to do with himself. I heard from people with a more central view that Hermione was breaking down in tears in the other wings. 

Scene Nineteen

Scorpius was so impressed with his "Engorgimpressed", and Albus just looked across at him and shook his head because no. No Scorpius. 

When Myrtle showed up Albus was just getting ready with this big smug look to reveal his grand plan, but as soon as he'd taken a breath she showed up and stole his moment. He seemed the tiniest bit miffed, but mostly just like well, this is as good as anything I could have planned. 

I don't know I've mentioned this before, but at the first stage door, April told us she practiced her Myrtle voice in the kitchen while she was cooking, just sort of random gurgling and meaning. It totally worked. 

It has not escaped my notice that Myrtle looks directly at Albus when she says the "and boys" part of "girls and boys doing love incantations in this very bathroom".

Before I knew there was Gillyweed, but I'd never properly seen it. I'm still not sure what they use, although apparently the sweets in Scorpius's bag at the start are Haribos, and the Gillyweed looked kind of like some kind of jelly sweet. 

I have never felt this way before, but when Albus disappeared into the sink I was genuinely disappointed that we wouldn't get to see him again until halfway through Act Three. Theo had done such an incredible job. 

I love how Myrtle beckons the adults in like she's going to tell them what the trinket is, but then just whispers that it's a secret. 

When Harry turned round to talk to Ginny and Draco and McGonagall, Myrtle kept her foot right by his head for the longest time, almost touching him, just sort of floating there and considering stroking it against his face or something. It was hilarious. 

Draco gets really fired up the second the Time-Turner is mentioned. The poor guy has been keeping the secret for so long and suddenly the other one is out and about and he must be terrified of the implications. 

Scene Twenty

Mackley is still double Scorpius for now... Henry has to take over at some point right?

Scorpius's delight when he comes out of the lake is adorable. Bless him. 

When Elizabeth walks out as Umbridge she sort of holds her coat out of the way so you can see the dress underneath. It's exactly the sort of grand gesture Umbridge would make. 

Samuel's interactions with the Dementors at the end of Part One are excellent. He gives each their time. Scorpius seems to get sucked into first one, then the other, and when he gets free he does this jerk of his body, like he's falling away from them. 

*

I couldn't cheer at the end of Part One because I was crying too hard. I made it out of the theatre and tried to explain to the people I was with exactly what that Part had meant to me, and I ended up sobbing again.

The reason I cried wasn't only because the show was brilliant, but because the cast felt like a cohesive unit, doing a beautiful and detailed performance of the show I am absolutely in love with. My thoughts throughout that act were that they're ready, they're good, they've finally made it. They were finally doing themselves the true justice I knew they could. And more than that, I was watching the show instead of the actors. I wasn't smiling because they were acting well, I was caught up in the emotion of the play. For the first time in a year I was mesmerised by the story. And it was a truly incredible experience, which was just capped off beautifully by the brilliant Part Two to come.