REVIEW | Potted Potter

Reviewed by Brendan Daynes

Enter the enchanting realm of wizardry and wonder with Potted Potter – The Unauthorized Harry Experience – A Parody by the dynamic duo, Daniel Clarkson and Jefferson Turner. Playing to sold-out houses worldwide, this spellbinding spectacle takes on the monumental challenge of condensing all seven Harry Potter books into a whirlwind of just seventy minutes, sprinkled with laughter, charm, and a sprinkle of magic.

From the very first moment the stage lights flicker to life this production whisks you away on a broomstick of hilarity, hurtling through the beloved saga at breakneck speed. It’s a rollercoaster ride of wit and whimsy, where even the most steadfast Muggle will find themselves chuckling like a house-elf on Butterbeer.

What adds a touch of magic to the production is the sheer talent and energy of its performers. Scott Hoatson and Brendan Murphy weave their wizardry on stage, seamlessly morphing between a myriad of characters faster than you can say “Expelliarmus!” Their high-octane antics infuse the theatre with an electric buzz, captivating audiences of all ages from start to finish.

But it’s not just the performers who deserve a round of applause – the production elements elevate the experience to new heights of hilarity. Simon Scullion’s ingeniously simple set design provides the perfect playground for the antics of our intrepid duo, showcasing how even the most basic elements can work wonders in the right hands. Tim Mascall’s lighting adds an extra dash of magic to every scene and let’s not forget the costumes – a whirlwind of wigs, hats, and accessories that enable Hoatson and Murphy to transform into a parade of Potter personalities with lightning speed.

What makes Potted Potter stand out is its vibrant spirit of delight and teamwork. From the stage to the stalls, you can feel the passion and enthusiasm radiating from the performers, creating an atmosphere that’s as warm and welcoming as the Gryffindor common room. And with just the right amount of audience interaction sprinkled throughout, you’ll find yourself feeling like part of the magic in no time.

Laugh-out-loud funny and endlessly entertaining, this production is a must-see for Potterheads and Muggles alike. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the books or a newcomer to the wizarding world, this spellbinding spectacle is guaranteed to leave you spellbound and grinning from ear to ear. As Dumbledore himself might say, “It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live”

Potted Potter – The Unauthorised Harry Experience A Parade by Dan and Jeff is a fast-paced romp through the world of Harry Potter that will leave you laughing like a tickled Cornish pixie. With its clever use of character, high-energy performances, and infectious sense of joy, it’s a theatrical treat that’s not to be missed. So grab your broomstick, hop aboard the Hogwarts Express, and prepare for a magical journey that’s as hilarious as it is heartwarming. As Ron Weasley might say, “Bloody brilliant!”

Catch Potted Potter – The Unauthorised Harry Experience A Parade by Dan and Jeff as it makes it’s way around the country, with shows currently playing at the Athenaeum Theatre in Melbourne, followed by shows at the Adelaide Festival Centre in Adelaide, and the State Theatre Centre in Perth. For more information or to book your tickets, visit https://www.pottedpotter.com.au/.