The Music of Cursed Child

On Thursday it was announced that the music featured in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is finally going to be released as an album. From Imogen Heap, The Music of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is due to be released on Friday, 2 November. 

The music will be four suites each containing music from the four acts of the play, which Imogen Heap has cleverly weaved together. 

The album is up for pre-order on Amazon, and will available on all major download and streaming service providers, such as iTunes and Spotify. 

I've been waiting since August 2016 for this, so I'm incredibly excited for the chance to finally be able to listen to the music all in one place. I pre-ordered my copy instantly. 

I'm excited to be able to hear Cycle Song as it is in the show, as well as Entanglement which is probably my favourite piece of music featured in the play. As sad as it is, I'm also looking forward to listen to the version of Climb to Sakteng used in the play, especially used in the transitional scene where Rose reunites with Hermione. 

Cursed Child — Year Three

Last Wednesday I was lucky enough to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child again. It was my sixth time seeing the show in total, but my first time seeing the new cast. 

The company of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

I'd heard a lot about the new intake of wizards from my friends, so I was very excited to see them for myself. Here's a few thoughts on the stand-outs for me.

In my opinion, Joe Idris-Roberts is the most likeable Albus I've seen. On the page, Albus Potter isn't the most agreeable of characters. He's difficult, trying and slightly irksome to say the least. Even when those words are transferred onstage, he's often quite difficult to understand and appreciate.  

Joe Idris-Roberts as Albus Potter,
and Jonathan Case as Scorpius Malfoy

I didn't feel that at all with Joe, he was so easy to understand and empathise with. What I think Joe captured beautifully was Albus's struggle to connect with his family, to fit in, how introverted and self-conscious he is around them, but then how easily he comes to life when Scorpius is by his side.  

Above all, I found it completely believable that Joe was a 14-year-old boy. He wasn't overbearingly full of angst or disdain at not being understood, he was simply a hurting child who felt like the spare, pining to feel a connection with his family and with his father in particular. 

I have much to say about Jonathan Case as Scorpius Malfoy. I've made no secret in the past that Scorpius is my favourite character. Not only is he the character I think I'm most like, he's also the character I wish and aspire to be. 

Jonathan Case as Scorpius Malfoy

I fell a bit in love with Jonathan if I'm being honest. His Scorpius is cheerful, warm and thoughtful. I found myself fascinated by the smallest of mannerisms and nuances in delivery. 

He begins the show hunched over a little, as if nervous, unsure of how to carry himself in public, though quickly relaxes once he finds a kindred spirit in Albus. His other tics include tugging and massaging at his fingers and tensing and shaking his legs when angry or upset. As someone who once suffered with quite intense social anxiety, (and actually had very similar nervous traits) that aspect of his performance affected me in a way I really wasn't expecting.

Jonathan's was a very truthful portrayal of Scorpius Malfoy. I looked forward to his scenes with James Howard (Draco), and enjoyed the bond they had despite playing a father and son struggling to connect.

I told Jonathan at stage door how much his performance had impacted me. The word I used on the night was broken - but in a good way, the best way.

Jamie Ballard plays Harry quite differently to how I've seen before and I was really quite impressed by his interpretation. He's everyone's typical, awkward, funny dad with the added element of being Harry Potter, hero to the wizarding world. He's that little bit more goofy than I've previously seen, almost cringeworthy so, but it's easy to see that it comes from a place of wanting to get closer to his child. Though still impulsive and a little reckless, I really got the sense that his Harry is more careful and considerate than previous incarnations.

Jamie Ballard as Harry Potter

I truly loved Nicola Alexis as Hermione. I'd heard from friends what she was like when she understudied the role, so I was excited to hear she was taking over from Rakie Ayola for a short stint. She plays Hermione in such a refined way, though bold and commanding, she still has that fiery, fun spark. I particularly enjoyed her DADA scene and it was great to chat to Nicola about it at stage door. It was really a very unique and layered performance and I'm so thrilled I got to see her before she moves on in a week's time. 

Nicola Alexis as Hermione Granger

I don't think I've ever mentioned Helen Aluko or Tom Aldridge before, which is strange because I think they're brilliant. 

Nicola Alexis, Helen Aluko and Tom Aldridge,
as Hermione Granger, Rose Granger-Weasley and Ron Weasley, respectively

Helen as Rose Granger-Weasley is just perfect because, well, Rose Granger-Weasley is perfection. I always take away something new from seeing her, whether it be a facial expression, a look or that cheeky grin she does so well. Helen's 'Rose Granger-Weasley, nice to meet you,' kills me every time. 

Ron Weasley as he is in Cursed Child made me appreciate the character in a whole new way. He's no longer someone living in the shadows of his elder brothers, no longer riddled with insecurity and self-doubt. Ron is loyal, loveable and affectionate. He's free to be the fun-loving father who adores his family and friends, willing to lay down his life to keep them safe. Tom is simply perfect. I think it's easy to see that he shares Ron's heart.

The new additions to the script kept things fresh and had me on my toes. The new cast have got me so excited about this story again, and I know it'll only be a matter of time before I book my seventh trip to the Palace Theatre. 

Oh look, I rambled again... 

#WhyIGoBackToCC

I first saw Cursed Child on the 3rd August 2016. It was the first performance after the opening gala, the script had only been released days before, and I was nervous. 

I had first entered the wizarding world by way of the Philosopher's Stone film, aged just 7. I lapped up the books, poring over each page and every individual word, reading them continuously until the next instalment was published. I pre-ordered the last three books, booked tickets to see the film adaptations, and even skived off school to see the Half-Blood Prince before anyone else. Harry Potter was a huge part of my life.

Although there were differences between the books and the films, I was happy. A world I had invested so much in was brought to life before my eyes, and for the most part they stayed true to the story and J.K. Rowling's vision. 

I was also very shy. As a young child I had always been quick to hide behind my mother's legs when meeting someone new. In primary school I was too scared to put my hand up to even ask to go to the toilet, so much so that I had a few near-misses on numerous occasions. (... is that TMI?)

People sensed that weakness in me and bullied me for it. That coupled with the fact that I was a swot, made things pretty unbearable. But things would be alright as long as I could read or watch Harry Potter at the end of the day. 

Thankfully I had teachers who discovered my strengths and encouraged them, and helped me to find myself. I left primary school with a small group of friends, feeling happy and excited about moving on to secondary school. However, as it turns out, not all secondary schools are as accepting or encouraging as Hogwarts.

I became quite ill in my second year. I was diagnosed with pleurisy, an inflammation of the lungs, and was forced to take a number of weeks off from school. I've always had weak lungs. Starting with whooping cough aged 3, I was diagnosed with chest infections multiple times every year, and asthma plagued my life, so illness wasn't unfamiliar to me. But having pleurisy made things so much worse. 

I now know I developed social anxiety over that time. I was bedridden and had very limited social interaction. When I finally went back to school, people were eager to know why I had been absent for so long, and that terrified me.

It seemed to me that in the time I was off school, people had moved on. They had formed new friendships. I felt like an outsider in all things.

Whereas before I was occasionally off school thanks to a cheeky asthma attack during the night, now I found myself being unable to face anybody at all. The questioning looks or accusing glares from teacher and student alike was too much for me.

Of course, it's a cruel cycle of events, because I knew I would have endure this when inevitably I went back. It became far easier to say my asthma had flared up than to explain that I simply couldn't face people. It was a reliable excuse to me, but I imagine seemed disingenuous and unbelievable to other people.

Social anxiety is so much more than feeling awkward or uncomfortable around people. It's the fear of looking someone directly in the eye. It's your heart fluttering and sinking when you're home alone and the phone rings or someone knocks at the door. It's the never knowing quite what to say so saying nothing at all, knowing that the silence will deafen you too. It's the tight clenching knots in your stomach. It's the pain and bubbling in your temples like your brain is about to melt because you overthink and over-feel everything. And it is crippling. 

Though I hated every minute, school was a safety-net in many ways, however. There was a routine, a structure to stick to, and so naturally I panicked once I left. I became a recluse, which is no exaggeration by any means. The fear of going outside was too much, so I just didn't.

My family really looked after me during that time. They were understanding (for the most part) and I see now how much they went out of their way to help me feel comfortable. Spontaneity was (and is) a great fear of mine. If I was required to go anywhere, I needed at least a few days to prepare myself for it or I was a no-show. 

Family trips were easier. I would go with my sister to see touring productions of shows locally. Before long we'd venture down to London to see West End shows and concerts, because the city was the first place I'd felt at ease in public in a long time.

There's a certain anonymity about London, and I would frequently seek refuge in the hustle and bustle of busy people who wouldn't look twice at me in the street or smile at me on the Tube. 

And then Cursed Child was announced. 

Throughout the past few years when my anxiety was at its worst, Harry Potter was always there. I spent more time in that world than I did reality, which says a lot for J.K. Rowling's writing. The announcement of a theatrical production was like a dream to me. 

I booked the tickets way back in October 2015, and my hype and excitement had only built up since then. I remember carefully watching Twitter on 7th June, the night of the first preview, for just a glimpse that my beloved world was in safe hands. 

That night the official Cursed Child Twitter account tweeted a single photo; Cherrelle Skeete as Rose Granger-Weasley, who was about to be sorted. Seeing the house banners and the set for the first time settled my nerves somewhat, and I was content. And so I resumed counting down the weeks and days until I would finally see it. 

There was something comforting about turning up to the Palace Theatre and immediately seeing people wearing robes and house scarves despite it being a warm afternoon. People were brandishing wands, Time-Turners and Deathly Hallows symbols hung around their necks, and they hugged the freshly-published script close to their chests. It was like going to Hogwarts for the first time. 

Along with the entire audience, I whooped and clapped when the Sorting Hat introduced the show. It was a gentle reminder to turn off all Muggle devices, (we were in the quiet coach, after all) but the simplicity was powerful enough to transport us all straight onto the Hogwarts Express. Our journey was about to begin. 

I braced myself, suddenly overwhelmed with fear that Harry Potter would not work on stage after all, but all panic and doubt subsided as soon as Harry appeared. 

I knew instantly that Scorpius Malfoy was my new favourite character. It wasn't unusual for me to favour the underdog, the outcast or the pariah, or the one who was just a bit different, because I felt like that too. You always look for something to relate to. But something about Scorpius struck a very different chord with me. 

In truth, it was like looking in the mirror. The general awkwardness and limited social skills were so familiar to me (not to mention the failed attempts at humour which do us absolutely no favours.) The fact that he's a massive mammy's boy is another thing. The loss of Astoria early on in the play resonated so powerfully with me, as I came within an inch of losing my own mother only a matter of years ago. 

Anthony Boyle's portrayal of Scorpius really helped heal my heart. I wouldn't ever wish to sound trite, but it really changed my life. As a whole, the play helped me come to terms with a lot of my past experiences 

Seeing Cursed Child and meeting a character like Scorpius for the first time was also the first time I felt truly represented. I'd have to be incredibly stupid or ignorant to assume there has ever been a fight for representation for people like myself. I am very much aware that there are more than enough white male protagonist characters out there, but seeing a character like Scorpius had a profound effect on me. Representation, on all levels, is so, so important, and Cursed Child really helped me to appreciate that.

I stage-doored for the first time that night. As the show was still in its early days, it was more than hectic, but the actors handled it all with grace. To have them sign my programme felt like a real honour. 

I was desperate to see the show again, but living so far away and having limited resources was a struggle. I found and interacted with fellow fans on Twitter, and discovered a large amount of tickets went on-sale for the performances for the 25th January. I got the cheapest possible seats in the Balcony (ouch!) but I was just happy to be there and experience everything again. I even noticed things I hadn't on my previous visit. 

I stage-doored again afterwards, where I was able to meet some of the people I'd interacted with on Twitter. It was daunting for me, but I knew they were huge fans too, and of course we'd just experienced the same magical show.

Everything snowballed from then on. I made more friends, and we shared and bonded over the play's success at the Olivier's. We shared our stories, our love for some characters and dislike for others, memes (so, so many memes) and just really had a laugh. 

I helped set up @ScoroseUpdate, a since retired Twitter account where we'd report on Cherrelle Skeete's antics as Rose as she teased and flirted with Scorpius in Act 4, Scene 14. Interacting with her was a really fun experience. 

Soon the question about cast change cropped up. Would I be able to go? Of course I wanted to, but there didn't seem to be tickets anywhere and the cost of travel and accommodation was extremely daunting. Then the #GetCallumToCursedChild campaign happened. 

It started off as a joke, but ended up actually happening. My new friends offered to help pay for my ticket and the brilliant Caz offered up her sofa. That whole weekend was one of the best experiences of my life. 

It's obvious to me that I was a very different person pre-Cursed Child, and the change I've seen in myself has been phenomenal. The play helped teach me a lot of things about myself, and my group of friends have helped bring me out of my shell as our friendship has progressed over the months. They're the most amazing people.

Before Cursed Child I had resigned myself to loneliness. It's taught me that I'm an alright person. I'm likeable. There are actually people out there who find me funny. There are people who appreciate and accept my flaws, and actually find them endearing.

So to answer the question, I go back to Cursed Child because of it's warmth, it's ability to transform and transfigure people into better, stronger people. It's all about finding the family who love and care enough to bring out the best in you, and that's what Cursed Child is to me. Family. 

The Stag

"The Patronus is a kind of positive force, a projection of the very things that the Dementor feeds upon - hope, happiness, the desire to survive - but it cannot feel despair, as real humans can, so the Dementors can't hurt it."

- Prisoner of Azkaban, The Patronus

I've voiced my opinion on this subject in the past, and, after some encouragement, I thought I'd write about it in a bit more detail. Typically messy Ravenclaw here, but this should all make sense. Bear with... 

(Spoilers, obvs)

I think Albus Severus Potter's Patronus would take the form of a stag, like his father's and grandfather's before him.

I think it's quite important to note that even at the age of 11, Albus desperately seeks reassurance from his dad. Even at this early stage, Albus already feels odd and different, a real misfit in his traditionally Gryffindor family. James teases Albus about it too, which no doubt further adds to Albus's complex. 

'Do you think - what if I am - what if I'm put in Slytherin ...'

- Cursed Child, Act 1, Scene 2

Albus first asks Harry to confirm it, asking whether his father has had an inkling too. It's a blunt question, one which Albus quickly rephrases. Instead he asks simply for reassurance, because Harry's opinion matters to him. It's natural to look up to one's parents and seek approval from them, but Albus has the added pressure that his dad is the saviour of the wizarding world.

Albus of course knows the dark history of Slytherin house, and so is naturally afraid of potentially being labelled and condemned if he is placed there. He is aware of the stigma that being in Slytherin carries, just as every other child in the wizarding world is, however Albus's situation is rather unique. 

Those who caused and defined the stigma, reputation and infamy of Slytherin, were all his father's enemies. They were some of the darkest wizards the world had known, and understandably Albus does not want to be seen to be on the same side as them. The thought terrifies him. In Deathly Hallows, the exchange plays out more intimately than it does in the Cursed Child:

"The whisper was for his father alone, and Harry knew that only the moment of departure could have forced Albus to reveal how great and sincere that fear was."

- Deathly Hallows, Nineteen Years Later

Albus's argument with his dad the night before he is due to start his fourth year at Hogwarts fuels the entire play, and much of the plot in Cursed Child is driven by Albus's desire to prove he is worthy - not only of the Potter name, but simply worthy of being his father's son. He acts honourably, but recklessly, desperate to live up to some silly precedent he believes Harry set before him. But it's a bit more than that. 

Albus says himself: 

'I thought Harry Potter wasn't afraid of anything.'

- Cursed Child, Act 3, Scene 11

He obviously holds Harry in high regard. I wouldn't go as far as to say that Albus hero-worships his dad, in the way that Scorpius arguably does, but it certainly comes close. It's different because Harry is his dad.

After Delphi forces them to go back in time to change the outcome of the Third Task, Albus and Scorpius come face to face with one Cedric 'Delicious' Diggory. They both know what must happen, and so send him on the path to Voldemort. As he goes, Albus calls Cedric back.

'Cedric - your dad loves you very much.'

- Cursed Child, Act 3, Scene 20 

It's a simple way to honour the promise he made to Amos Diggory, but it's also so much more than that. Albus is finally being tested, as Scorpius was before. Delphi could kill him, or worse still for Albus, Delphi could kill his best friend. He has never faced a greater threat, but Albus knows the way time must go, and in that moment he gives a small bit of comfort to a young boy he knows must die. 

It is then that Albus's true desire is revealed. He doesn't want his father's pride, though that would be nice, he just wants his love. He says to Cedric what he desperately hopes is true of himself.

Delphi then proceeds to then trap herself, Albus and Scorpius in the past, in an effort to change history right from the beginning. Even then, Albus thinks only of his dad. When he and Scorpius brainstorm and decide they need to get a message to the future, Albus is shown to have remarkable confidence in his father's abilities. Despite their difficult relationship, Albus has every faith that his dad is a hero.

'We get a message to Dad. He'll find a way to get back here. Even if he has to build a Time-Turner himself!' 

- Cursed Child, Act 4, Scene 5

When Albus's plan succeeds, he and Scorpius are joined by Harry, Ginny, Ron, Hermione and Draco. They spring into action, swiftly coming up with a plan to resolve the imminent threat. Harry volunteers, offering himself up to be transformed into his archenemy, Lord Voldemort. 

Draco Malfoy, of course, casts some doubts on the plan, but Albus has a quick, heartfelt response:

'Draco, trust my dad. He won't let us down.'

- Cursed Child, Act 4, Scene 10

In the final scene of the play, Harry confesses to Albus exactly what he is afraid of - the dark, small spaces and pigeons, amongst other things. Albus is shocked to hear that his dad is scared of such common, mostly irrational fears, but they only make Harry Potter more human, and that means everything to Albus.

If anything can be said about Albus Severus Potter it is that, when scared or afraid, he knows his dad will save him.

To get some proper perspective on Patronuses and the forms they take, I wanted to look back over at their introduction into the Harry Potter series in the Prisoner of Azkaban.

Harry is told by Remus Lupin that "each [Patronus] is unique to the wizard who conjures it." He's never explicitly told that a Patronus takes the form of an animal, but simply that it is a guardian who acts as a shield, effectively driving away the darkness. 

The first time we are made aware of what form Harry's corporeal Patronus takes is at the end of Prisoner of Azkaban. He also conjured one during the Quidditch match against Ravenclaw earlier, but the form and shape went unnoticed. The first time we actually see the shape that Harry's Patronus takes is right towards the close of the book. 

Sirius was weak from his scuffle with werewolf-Lupin, Hermione fainted as the wall of Dementors descended, and Harry was gripped by a Dementor eager to snatch away his soul. Then, through the drowning fog came a silvery light. The fog soon lifted, and the Dementors fled.

Before he fainted, Harry saw the Patronus, an unidentifiable animal, making its way back across the lake to the person who had conjured it - "someone who looked strangely familiar ... but it couldn't be ..." 

After they go back in time, Harry confesses to Hermione that he believes his dad conjured the Patronus. The powerful wizard across the lake certainly looked like his dad, but at this point in the story, James Potter had been dead for 12 years - it couldn't possibly be him.

Harry and Hermione watch the past play out again, this time from across the lake. They watch as the Dementors swarm around the past versions of themselves, but still James Potter does not materialise in front of them. It is then that Harry realises and conjures the Patronus himself. It has long been established that Harry and James look extraordinarily alike.

"It wasn't a horse. It wasn't a unicorn, either. It was a stag.

...

Slowly it bowed its antlered head. And Harry realised ...

'Prongs,' he whispered."

- Prisoner of Azkaban, Hermione's Secret

It is rather important, I think, to mention that prior to this point Harry had no idea his dad could take the form of a stag. He had only his dad's school nickname to go by, and it was a sudden realisation at that very moment. 

Dumbledore later makes an affirming speech to Harry, one which speaks volumes about Dumbledore's thoughts on love and loss, and on Patronuses too.

"'You think the dead we have loved ever truly leave us? You think that we don't recall them more clearly than ever in times of great trouble? Your father is alive in you, Harry, and shows himself most plainly when you have need of him. How else could you produce that particular Patronus? Prongs rode again last night.'"

- Prisoner of Azkaban, Owl Post Again

James Potter's association with his son's Patronus has always been known. Right from when Remus first teaches Harry the method required to summon a Patronus, James is present. Harry hears his dad's voice for the first time that night, in his final act of bravery. James took on Lord Voldemort alone, wandless, the last defence before he reached Lily and baby Harry. 

For Harry, his dad is an archetype of Gryffindor house. He was brave and chivalrous, a true protector and guardian. And so Harry's Patronus takes the form of a stag, like his dad's after the animal he could transform himself into. It is as if Harry is reaching deep inside himself, calling and mustering up what he himself defines as bravery and strength and light and happiness, and that for him is his dad, and so, of course, his Patronus is James Potter. 

In his dying words, James Potter promised to hold Lord Voldemort off, and he did, sacrificing his life to allow his beloved wife and child time to escape. Therefore, when Harry is scared and afraid, and in desperate need of some light in the darkness, he summons his father, because he knows his dad will always protect him. Just as Albus does. 

And for that reason, I believe Albus Potter's Patronus is a stag too.

My First Cursed Child Anniversary

3 August 2016 was a day I will never forget.

It was the day I saw Harry Potter and the Cursed Child for the first time. After a year of excitement, weeks of refusing to read reviews and staying well clear of spoilers, I was finally going to see it. 

And it was amazing.

I've written before of my nerves when I first entered the auditorium. Harry Potter had already been a part of my life for 14 years at that point. I had invested what felt like so much of my life in those children's stories. They were my childhood, and I honestly don't know who I'd be without their influence in my life. The characters, plot and themes will always mean a great deal to me.

I had been introduced to the films first, then the books, which I pored over and read constantly, often well into the early hours. I bought the later books on their publishing date, and booked to see the latter films on their release dates. I'd know instantly if the films deviated from the plot, changed things or added in moments, simply because I knew the books inside and out. I was a massive fan.

Jamie Parker, Sam Clemmett and Poppy Miller,
as Harry Potter, Albus Potter and Ginny Weasley Potter,
respectively.

But Cursed Child was different. It was a shock to the system, truth be told. I was going to be reimmersed back into a world I thought had been closed off years before. I had no expectations, no idea of the plot or themes. I went into the Palace Theatre completely blind, knowing only that the story concerned the second generation of characters, namely, Albus, the son of Ginny and Harry Potter. 

Alex Price and Anthony Boyle,
as Draco Malfoy and Scorpius Malfoy,
respectively.

I was blown away and captivated. It's just the most stunning story of friendship, and loss, and love in all its many forms. It's warm and moving and so, so beautiful. The play is just packed with heart, and it is no real surprise to anyone lucky enough to see it why such a huge sub-fandom has been built up around it. It touches people in a way they never would have expected, and brings together fans who experienced not only the play itself, but also similar life experiences. It did for me. 

I was exposed to the most stellar cast - truly some of the greatest actors and actresses of the age. They're just phenomenal. 

Paul Thornley, Noma Dumezweni and Cherrelle Skeete,
as Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger and Rose Granger-Weasley,
respectively.

No one is surprised at the record-breaking 9 Oliviers the play won as a whole back in April. It's nice to see the recognition of the play, the actors and the writer I love so much. Every award the play receives is totally justified and completely well-deserved. 

And now Broadway beckons. It was only announced yesterday that seven of the original cast going over to open the play there, the majority of them making their debut on those boards. The Tonys are certainly looking very exciting! 

Through this gorgeous play I have made friends with some of the most amazing people you could ever hope to meet. They're caring and kind, witty and intelligent, and just such good people. I'm so lucky. 

Cast change.

What a blessing this peculiar play about cursed wizards has been in my life.

Roll on the Hogwarts Express on 1st September.

Astoria

Astoria is introduced in the epilogue of Deathly Hallows, only as the wife of Draco Malfoy and mother of Scorpius. We never meet her in Cursed Child, sadly, but we hear so much about her and the kind of person she was.

Her name was originally revealed on J.K. Rowling's old website, in a small family pedigree scribbled onto a piece of paper, squeezed between the extended family trees of the Weasleys and Lovegoods. Her name was revealed to be Astoria, a younger sister of Daphne Greengrass, a Slytherin in Harry's year at school.

Fresh information about Astoria was later published on Pottermore in J.K. Rowling's further writings on Draco Malfoy, which disclosed some of Astoria's family background. 

The name etymologies of Harry Potter characters are often very revealing about a person's traits and quirks, and the Greengrass family are no different. 

The female name, Daphne, means 'laurel' in Greek. Laurels were said to be the sacred symbol of the Greek god Apollo who pursued Daphne, a nymph, until eventually she was transformed into a laurel tree.

One interesting thing to note is that Apollo is recognised as the god of truth and prophecy. As such, he was the patron of the city Delphi where Pythia the High Priestess (named for the Python, the snake), also known as the Oracle, sat and interpreted prophecies. Laurels (or Daphne) are very much associated with Delphi and the prophecies made there.

There is no Astoria in Greek mythology, although there are some deities with similar names. 

One Titaness was named Asteria which quite literally means 'of the stars' or 'starry one.' Asteria has been described as a patroness of nighttime divination, usually by way of dreams or astrology. In myths Asteria has been credited with delivering prophetic dreams. 

There was also a minor goddess named Astraea, who was the patroness of purity and innocence. Like Asteria, her name relates to the stars, meaning either 'starry maiden' or 'starry night.' 

Astraea is closely associated with Dike, the personification of justice, moral order and fairness. She is believed to have been the last immortal to live on earth, bringing blessings to mankind during what is commonly referred to as the Golden Age of man. 

Things soon soured, and Astraea became so dismayed with the world and the perpetual wickedness of men that she ascended into the heavens and became one with the stars themselves. Some now know her by another name – Virgo. 

The constellation Virgo is just within reach of Libra, the symbolic scales of justice, of which Astraea and Dike were closely associated. It should also be noted that close to Virgo and Libra is the constellation Scorpius. 

I for one find all of the above very fascinating considering the overall plot of Cursed Child. 

Draco and Astoria's only child is named Scorpius, which is understandable, as the Black family had an affinity for naming family members after stars and constellations. Scorpius's name certainly follows this convention. It could be argued that Scorpius's name is also inspired by the Greengrass family's Greek influence. His middle name is Hyperion, and there is no doubt that he was named for the Titan god of heavenly light.

Scorpius Malfoy, portrayed by Anthony Boyle.
From Cursed Child.

Like the Malfoy family, the Greengrass family appear on the 'Sacred Twenty-Eight' – an exclusive list of the purest magical families in Britain. It's not exactly an equivalent for Muggle aristocracy, as families such as the Gaunts and even the Weasleys appear on the list, but it's close enough. The majority of names who appear on that list would likely consider themselves to be aristocratic. 

Lucius and Narcissa would have been pleased to match Draco, their sole heir, with Astoria Greengrass. She was an eligible candidate, a pure-blood, a Slytherin, and her parents were probably within their social circle.

The Greengrass girls were raised to believe the same pure-blood doctrine that Lucius and Narcissa had instilled in Draco. Daphne and Astoria would have been taught to be proud of their pure heritage, and to look down upon so-called blood traitors, Mudbloods and Muggles. Like the Malfoys, however, the Greengrass family also went through a conversion which completely changed their outlook. 

Lucius in particular didn't like Astoria very much. He thought of her as too weak and too Muggle-loving. Snarling, arrogant Lucius Malfoy clearly thought such compassion was a weak trait, but thankfully Draco was different to his father. He defied his family for Astoria, and it was the bravest thing he ever did. 

However Astoria was not destined for old age. She suffered from a rare blood malediction passed down from a cursed ancestor. Astoria was just unlucky that the the curse resurfaced in her. I imagine this is akin to hereditary or genetic diseases in the Muggle world. 

It is painfully ironic that as a child Draco Malfoy bandied about as a pure-blood prince, spouting out racial slurs such as 'Mudblood' and other offence words. In the end, Draco fell in love and married a woman literally blighted by 'dirty blood.'

Astoria grew sickly and weak after the birth of Scorpius, but it was a price worth paying for her. Astoria loved Draco dearly and desperately wanted a child to keep him company once she was gone. They both did. She was resilient and strong in nature, but the birth of Scorpius weakened her body considerably. In order to conserve her strength and protect his son, Draco hid Astoria and Scorpius away. 

And then the rumours started...

Rumours sprang up that Draco and Astoria were unable to have children. Draco and Lucius, both being so keen and desperate to have a powerful Malfoy heir to carry on the family name, were said to have used a Time-Turner to send Astoria back. Scorpius, an innocent child, was rumoured to be the son of Lord Voldemort himself. This may sound a little far-fetched, but it's not when you consider the wider context of the wizarding world and the Malfoy family's place in it. 

Lucius Malfoy was once one of Voldemort's most trusted Death Eaters. Voldemort even trusted with Lucius with one of his precious Horcruxes, the diary. It was under Lucius's watch that this first Horcrux was destroyed by Harry Potter using a Basilisk fang in the Chamber of Secrets. There is no doubt that Lucius lost face for what would later prove to be a fatal mistake.

When Lord Voldemort was resurrected in 1995 in the graveyard at Little Hangleton, Lucius was again berated by his lord and master. He was criticised for not seeking out his master like others had, for seemingly renouncing the old ways and ideals they had all shared. 

Then, at the Battle of the Department of Mysteries, Lucius failed to procure the Prophecy from Harry. Not only that, he was captured and imprisoned in Azkaban.

For his father's failings, Draco was charged with the responsibility of killing Albus Dumbledore, a worthy punishment, Lord Voldemort thought, and a way to further embarrass and torment the Malfoy family. If and when Draco failed, it was assumed that Lord Voldemort would kill him. 

After Severus Snape killed Dumbledore on top of the Astronomy Tower, Draco was permitted to live while his father and the other captured Death Eaters were freed from Azkaban, though the Ministry kept this all hushed up. But then Lucius was forced to forfeit Malfoy Manor, his ancestral home, and later his own wand to help further Lord Voldemort's cause. 

Then, in the Forbidden Forest during the Battle of Hogwarts, Voldemort made a terrible mistake. He sent Narcissa Malfoy to check if Harry was alive. Narcissa Malfoy, a mother, desperate to find her son and know if he was alive or dead. Once again, Voldemort proved himself to be completely ignorant and bereft of the power of a mother's love.

In the years after Lord Voldemort's downfall, it makes complete sense that rumours would spring up about the possibility that he had had a child, through fear, ignorance or perhaps even a small shred of truth turned into gossip and passed along the grapevine. 

The wizarding community ultimately decided to rub salt in the wound. They kicked the Malfoy family while they were down, a further punishment for a family seen as traitorous and disloyal. This time, they chose to target a young married couple and their innocent son. 

We know from Cursed Child that numerous books on the life and times of Tom Marvolo Riddle were written following his death, so there was obviously a keen and receptive audience wanting to read about all things Dark Lord. Naturally, people would also come to their own conclusions and judgements. They weren't entirely wrong. Lord Voldemort did indeed have a child, it just wasn't Scorpius.

Astoria would have spent much of her time consumed with guilt, thinking of the life she had inflicted upon her son. After all, it was she who had pined and longed for a child for them, herself and Draco. It was she who was ill, sickly and dying, unable to refute or put an end to the slanderous gossip and absurd claims surrounding her son's parentage. And now her beloved child was to grow up in a world which believed him to be the spawn of darkness, a child of the most evil wizard the world had known, and Astoria was powerless to stop it.

Scorpius and Draco Malfoy,
portrayed by Samuel Blenkin and James Howard, respectively.
From Cursed Child.

Thus Scorpius was brought up in a very sheltered, albeit not entirely reclusive environment. He struggled with social interaction, possibly inferring that the only interaction he knew was amongst his immediate family, particularly his mother. He grew up lonely and isolated in the imposing Malfoy Manor, poring over the many books and tomes the vast libraries there held. 

And so Scorpius learns everything there is to know about Harry Potter and his family, the wizarding wars, and the eventual downfall of Lord Voldemort. Essentially, Scorpius became a huge fan of Harry Potter. He idolised both Harry and his friends who fought so selflessly for the future of the wizarding world.

This is a slight contrast to his father, Draco, who also grew up as an only child at Malfoy Manor, though he was able to socialise with the children of his father's Death Eater chums. 

Scorpius was, however, about the rumour surrounding his parentage when he left for Hogwarts at the age of eleven. It is impossible for anyone (perhaps apart from J.K. Rowling or Jack Thorne) to know how he discovered this. Whether he overheard his parents talking, or they told him outright, we just do not know. What we do know is that Scorpius went to school with a certain expectation of being judged, vilified and tormented. It's heartbreaking when you later discover that Hogwarts was the one place Scorpius had longed to go ever since he had first heard of it.

Knowing how much her son would struggle, Astoria gave Scorpius a bag of sweets on his first train journey to Hogwarts. It was an attempt to help him make friends, almost like an inferior making an offering to some greater or superior being. I suppose the sweets could also be taken as a metaphor. If Astoria believed that her son was going to be bullied at school, she may have given him sweets as a gesture to sweeten them up, to bribe the bullies into taking pity on the sweet and unassuming Scorpius. 

The sweets acted as an ice-breaker for Scorpius who was very much socially inept. Though Rose Granger-Weasley rejected Scorpius's offer of sweets, Albus Potter was keen to accept. And so it is partly thanks to Astoria that a Malfoy and a Potter became the unlikeliest of best friends.

Scorpius Malfoy and Albus Potter,
portrayed by Anthony Boyle and Sam Clemmett, respectively.
From Cursed Child.

It was during Scorpius's first year at Hogwarts that Astoria's health began to decline. The bullies at school were relentless and Scorpius was suffering enough at home. At the start of second year, Draco spoke to Harry Potter, now a public official at the Ministry of Magic. He pleaded with Harry, begging him to quash the defaming rumours once and for all, but to no avail.

Another year went by, and when Albus Potter met up with his best and only friend at the start of third year, he found him completely different to his usual self. Scorpius was numb, upset and grief-stricken. His beloved mother, Astoria, had died.

Scorpius was closest in the world to Astoria. His world caved in, his heart was broken, and he was in considerable pain. He was lost for words, which is most unlike Scorpius. He couldn't even confide in his best friend that his mother had died. 

Scorpius's relationship with Draco worsened after Astoria's death. They were unable to talk, unable to reach other, or share their mutual grief. 

Scorpius, portrayed by Samuel Blenkin.
From Cursed Child.

In the dark, alternative world, Astoria is thought of again. Scorpius recounts how Astoria knew Draco was a better man than he showed, and for the first time they talk about her candidly – how the Malfoy family are historically murky and ill-famed – but she was both the literal and metaphorical light in the darkness.

The alternative world where Lord Voldemort reigns supreme is infested and patrolled by Dementors. Much like his hero, Harry Potter, Scorpius is strongly affected by them. When they come near he hears Astoria, just like Harry hears Lily. In his mind he hears Astoria pleading with him, begging him for help, but Scorpius is utterly helpless. He is consumed by the dark and ill-thoughts the Dementors are bringing to the forefront of his mind, likely recounting the illness and eventual death of Astoria. 

Scorpius finally breaks away from the Dementors after thinking of Albus Potter, his best friend, the friend he happily shared sweets with on their first Hogwarts Express journey. The friend Astoria helped him to make.

When Scorpius and Draco, along with Harry, Ginny, Albus, Ron and Hermione, bear witness to Lord Voldemort callously murdering James and Lily Potter on Halloween 1981, they both crumble. When Lily Potter pleads for the life of her only child and Voldemort cruelly cuts her down, they undoubtedly think of Astoria.

Scorpius and Draco Malfoy,
portrayed by Anthony Boyle and Alex Price, respectively.

It is credit to Astoria that Scorpius is fond of Rose Granger-Weasley; a fiery, assertive, and independent young woman. It is likely Astoria was much the same before she became ill. We do know Astoria was the one to put her foot down and refused to allow Scorpius to be raised hating those deemed to be less pure than he was.

It is thanks to Astoria that we have Scorpius, a character beloved by so many people. We can also thank her for the redemption of Draco Malfoy, a boy consumed by dark and murky thoughts for so long, until he met Astoria, who made him brave and truly good. She was his guiding light in the murky and foggy darkness. 

For me, Astoria is very much the heart of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Though we never see her, we see her heart and soul in Scorpius. 

20 Years of Harry Potter

June 2017 marks 20 years since Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone was first published by Bloomsbury. Officially the publishing date was 26th June 1997, when I was only two-years-old. It would be another five years before I entered the wizarding world. 

As a seven-year-old, I was obsessed with all things Harry Potter. And I mean obsessed. I had figurines, plushies, Gryffindor robes (both standard black and Quidditch red, of course), wands, and I collected Chocolate Frog cards and ate Sherbet Lemons which I'm gutted they don't still make. 

I had Harry Potter bedsheets, wallpaper, curtains, and in fact my whole room was kitted out in wall stickers. 

It's interesting that after all this time, I'm still so involved in this fandom. I might've packed away all my toys, and much of my merch, but I feel closer to this world than I did back then.

The past couple of months or so have been some of the best of my life. Over that time I acquired a few little things I'd to show here. Some of them I've fangirled over quite a bit. 

I really treasure this first one. It is an invite to the party held after the Opening Gala on 30th July last year, just a few days before I saw Cursed Child for the first time. It was given to me at cast change and I truly cherish this.

I was very excited when I saw that Bloomsbury were going to publish new editions of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, this time as house editions. I, of course, got the Ravenclaw edition. As I ordered from Bloomsbury I got a free Ravenclaw bookmark also! 

Here they both are, along with all my other Ravenclaw merchandise. 

A closer look at the Ravenclaw bookmark!

This is probably my favourite page in the new Philosopher's Stone 20th Anniversary Edition - a portrait of Rowena Ravenclaw herself! It's very much styled like a woodcut picture, which I think adds to the feel of Hogwarts and the ancient founders.

I really appreciate the symbolism in this portrait. Rowena is shown displaying an open book with her diadem on her head. Around her are the four house animals.

I've saved the best for last - Scorpius Malfoy's wand. 

I had wondered for a while if the Cursed Child store were going to bring out a range of wands, and now they have. I currently only have Scorpius's, but I hope to get Albus's later in the year. 

It's beautiful. It has a slight curve to it, and looks almost like it has been stripped, whittled or burnt right back, perhaps by Scorpius himself. Scorpius has carved Roman numerals/a tally system into the handle himself. 

Scorpius has also cut 'SC' right at the bottom of his wand, and there is also a small 'A' for his poor mother, Astoria.