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Step Into Harry’s World

By Kristiane Aateigen
Assistant Online Editor

harrypotterexhibition.com
harrypotterexhibition.com

If you are still expecting an acceptance letter from Hogwarts, it may be time you realize the closest thing to the realm of witchcraft and wizardry is Harry Potter: The Exhibition. Following the trail of young muggles in Gryffindor attire will lead you to its location at Discovery Times Square in New York City.

Admission to see the Harry Potter costumes and original props is $30, which does not include the $8 audio tour. Upon entering, there is an opportunity to have a picture taken wearing the scarf of your preferred house, Slytherin, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff or Gryffindor. This photograph can be purchased for an additional $30. This will be the only framed memory to take home since there is a no-picture policy.

Snippets of the eight movies are shown on large screens before passing the Hogwarts Express and entering into author J.K. Rowling’s fantasy world. It is a domain of imagination. Among the items on display are moving portraits, magic wands and a section devoted to Quidditch, an aggressive game played on broomsticks. Encountering these original props can help authenticate the feeling of reality this story has given many fans.

The diary of the Half Blood Prince almost seems real.

The exhibit’s lack of information about the items may make you regret not experiencing the audio tour. However, there are employees around if you have any questions. It is important to take the time to grasp the meticulous work put into every prop. The Quidditch gear looks as if it has been around for generations. Many of the school supplies look worn out. The copper bindings on the books have even turned light green.

A great deal of personality lies in the details of the costumes and character’s belongings. One example of this is Gilderoy Lock- hart who is a defense against the dark arts teacher and famous writer. His narcissistic persona is displayed through his extravagant gold accessories and ruffled clothing. His face adorns the cover of most of his possessions and published works. Dolores Umbridge surrounds herself in everything pink and she seems to be obsessed with cats. Hermione Granger’s clothing matures as she grows up and becomes a woman, which is highlighted by the dress she wore to the Yule Ball.

Located on the lower level is the Forbidden Forest, which contains the dark power and creatures of the night. The exhibition grows more exciting because of the additional special effects that cause a gloomy atmosphere. This demonstrates the dark side of J.K. Rowling’s universe. Under the floating Death Mark on the wall, horcruxes, deathly hallows, death eaters, dementors and Voldemort’s costumes are displayed.

The creators have left little room for interaction, which makes it less convenient to bring smaller children. You can experience a herbalogy class where you conjure up a screaming mandrake, throw a Quidditch ball though a hoop and sit in Hagrid’s gargantuan chair. Altogether, the artifacts and costumes collaborate to create the feeling of being in this fantasy realm, which has affected so many people around the world. If you are a fan, you are likely to see the story behind every prop and get your money’s worth.

Harry Potter: The Exhibition, created by Global Experience Specialists Inc. in partnership with Warner Bros. Consumer Products, will be on display at Discovery Times Square now through April 7.

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