Almonte and District High School presented an enchanting production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Published Jun 07, 2025

Last updated Jun 07, 2025

13 minute read

Marjorie Mennie (L) performs as Delphi Diggory, Mycah Olson (C) performs as Scorpius Malfoy, and Cole Stevenson (R) performs as Albus Potter during Almonte and District High School’s Cappies production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Photo by Maria Vartanova /SuppliedArticle content

Show #22
Almonte and District High School
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: High School Edition
Director: Jenny Sheffield

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Hannah Castillo, Lead Critic
Holy Trinity Catholic High School

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We all know the story of the boy who lived, but the next chapter doesn’t belong to him. The magic of Hogwarts returned in Almonte and District High School’s enchanting and moving production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: High School Edition.

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Taking place 19 years after the Harry Potter series, the Cursed Child follows Harry Potter’s son, Albus, and Draco Malfoy’s son, Scorpius. The two form a special friendship as they struggle to make a name for themselves in spite of their fathers’ legacies. As they attempt to rewrite history, they not only confront the dark secrets of the wizarding world, but also confront the emotional challenges that come with family and friendship in this magical story.

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The role of Albus was played to perfection by Cole Stevenson. Stevenson featured a great British accent that remained consistent at all times. With the use of remarkable voice intonations and natural delivery, Stevenson gave an emotional performance where sadness, anger, and frustration resonated through the stage. Stevenson had an exceptional dynamic with all other characters on stage, most noticeably with Mycah Olson who played Scorpius. While Albus and Scorpius became friends, Stevenson and Olson built a heart-warming relationship on stage that featured understanding, conflict, and resolution. The pair’s outstanding connection powered the show, bringing both laughter and emotion. As Scorpius, Olson had a strong sense of character and a wide emotional range. With humorous line delivery and comedic timing, Olson brought light-heartedness, but was also able to convey sorrow through an exceptional voice and expressive mannerisms.

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Cole Stevenson (L) performs as Albus Potter, and Mycah Olson (R) performs as Scorpius Malfoy duringAlmonte and District High School’s Cappies production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child High School Edition, on April 27, 2025. Photo by Maria Vartanova /SuppliedArticle content

Jack Lockhart took to the stage fabulously in the role of Harry Potter. With a strong stage presence, Lockhart showed true character development and portrayed significant emotion when bonding with Albus, going from an awkward and overbearing dad, to an understanding and supportive father. In the role of Delphi Diggory, the talented Marjorie Mennie unveiled the plot with an amazing change of character. Mennie’s facial expressions, emotions, and voice intonations drastically differed when revealing the true nature of Delphi, adding a lot of magic to the show. Another remarkable performance was Jade Lodge in the role of Professor McGonagall, who with an outstanding Scottish accent, never failed to bring laughter by lecturing both past and present students. The Hogwarts Students did an impeccable job running around the school and making the busy environment come to life, making the show even more entertaining and realistic.

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The technical aspects of this production were just as magnificent as the acting. The Enchanting Embellishers made dazzling sets that were practical, like the periaktos which allowed for smooth transitions between various scenes,the big bright clock at the top of the stage, and the bookcase that swallowed wizards whole. The Cursed Crafters expertly made magical looking props that complemented every scene excellently, such as the glowing time turners, the hilarious book puppets, the unique baby blankets, and much more. The lights were perfectly executed and well designed, with cues matching the events on stage, and a wide array of colours that fitted each scene, making for vivid and exceptional time travel moments.

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The magic of Hogwarts is timeless, and Almonte and District High School brought it to life on stage with their enchanting production of Harry Potter and Cursed Child: High School Edition. With fantastical acting from the cast and captivating technical elements from the crew, the show told a beautiful and heartwarming story of love, friendship, and magical wizardry.

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Ryan Groulx, Critic
Holy Trinity Catholic High School

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Time travel creates ripples through time, with many of these changes being quite unexpected. Almonte and District High School showed the effects of these ripples in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: High School Edition. The play, written by Jack Thorne, John Tiffany, and original series author J.K. Rowling, was thrillingly magical and energized throughout.

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The story takes place 19 years after the Battle of Hogwarts and follows Harry Potter’s son, Albus Severus Potter, in his life at Hogwarts. Being sorted into Slytherin and having an important family name, he becomes an outcast from his peers. This is until he befriends fellow Slytherin and son of Draco Malfoy, Scorpius Malfoy, much to his father’s dismay. The two engage in a magical journey through time to change the past, unknowingly causing ripples that alter their present for the worse.

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Albus Potter, played by Cole Stevenson, exuded various complex emotions over time. Stevenson was able to show both rebelliousness and anger but also care and compassion, balancing these throughout the plot. Stevenson also had good on stage presence alongside Mycah Olson in the role of Scorpius Malfoy. Olson had high energy, powerful vocal projection, and good use of accent to truly make the character. Olson was dynamic in acting, being able to change body movements and voice in moments of both sorrow and joy.

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Jack Lockhart played the ever concerned parent and wizarding hero Harry Potter. Lockhart was able to be stern and caring, especially in moments with his son. Lockhart had good projection and an authentic accent that captured the magic of the character. Marjorie Mennie played the deceitful companion Delphi. Mennie was dichotomous in this role, going from a kind friend into an imposing evil presence and executing both parts excellently. Masterful projection and clear understanding of the character made the change fulfilling. Mennie had a good connection with Stevenson and Olson, both as a friend and as an enemy.

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Mycah Olson (L) performs as Scorpius Malfoy, and Cole Stevenson (R) performs as Albus Potter, during Almonte and District High School’s Cappies production of the Harry Potter and the Cursed Child High School Edition. Photo by Maria Vartanova /SuppliedArticle content

Oscar Wattie played Severus Snape with stoicism and energy. Subtle movements of the body and face allowed for Wattie to have a good presence while on stage. Playing Ginny Weasley was Ella Wattie. Ella Wattie was able to use a good accent and meaningful voice when speaking to create a memorable performance.

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The set by the Enchanted Embellishers was visually pleasing, featuring painted panels which would display various backgrounds. Props, made by The Cursed Crafters, were created with integrity and were used to great effect such as hand carved wooden wands or candies on the trolley cart. Sound cues were executed on time and at a good volume. Cues that included dialogue were audible and clear. Lighting cues were also well done, with many individual cues. Certain lights were especially dynamic such as the lights during time travel moments. Hair and make-up were accurate to the period of today, with specialty make-up for aging up actors or creating the visage of the Dark Lord being especially well done. Special effects were impressively pulled off, using complex mechanisms in order to make effects happen but also keep the tech hidden.

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With high energy from both the cast and the crew, Almonte and District High School’s rendition of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: High School Edition was magical from beginning to end, telling a touching yet fun story of the most important magic in the world, family.

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Ariana Guerra-Nguyen, Critic
St. Patrick’s High School

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Who says magic lives solely within the halls of Hogwarts? With their enchanting interpretation of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: High School Edition, the cast and crew of Almonte and District High School mastered a spellbinding charm of their own.

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Written by playwrights Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, alongside the author of the original series J.K Rowling, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: High School Edition centers around Harry’s younger son, nineteen years after the final battle of Hogwarts. Upon arriving at the wizarding school his parents attended, Albus Severus Potter faces the pressure of finding his own identity amid his father’s enduring legacy. Along the way, he forms an unlikely friendship with Scorpius Malfoy, son of his father’s long standing nemesis, and together they undertake a perilous journey to right what has been wrong.

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Oscar Wattie (L), Samuel Scobie (C), and Naimh MacDonald (R) perform as Death Eaters, duringAlmonte and District High School’s Cappies production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child High School Edition. Photo by Maria Vartanova /SuppliedArticle content

The cast of Almonte and District High School showcased impressive skill and undeniable commitment throughout their performance. Particularly, the show’s lead actors Cole Stevenson and Mycah Olson exhibited a high level of professionalism and charisma whenever on stage. When interacting with other characters, whether verbally or physically, Cole Stevenson demonstrated a strong understanding of Albus Potter’s intricate nuances through the passionate delivery of every line, all the while maintaining a convincing British accent and emotive facial expressions. Whether grappling with the weight of disappointment when conversing with his father, expressing momentary sarcasm towards Scorpius, or flashes of cleverness, Stevenson brought the layers of this multifaceted character to life. Alongside Stevenson, Mycah Olson delivered a memorable performance that captured the compassion and conflict of Scorpius Malfoy with seemingly ease. Olson’s compelling stage presence shone through with subtle, yet effective, use of body language that conveyed the emotional depth and vulnerability of Scorpius with notable authenticity.

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The rising tension throughout the show was amplified by the contributions of every actor on stage. Jack Lockhart’s standout portrayal as the infamous Harry Potter played a crucial role in the heightening of the dramatic stakes through the complex chemistry established with fellow actor Cole Stevenson. Marjorie Mennie displayed masterful versatility in her role as Delphi Diggory with the uncovering of the character’s sinister intricacies. A refreshing performance by Nick Roscoe as Ron Weasley infused a sense of humour that seamlessly complimented the intense moments of the show with infectious comedic timing.

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Shining alongside this talented cast, the crew’s clear dedication to the production was significant in bringing the magic of the show to life. The Cursed Crafters props team’s handmade props included glowing time turners, a puppet sorting hat, individually carved wands, and more. The attention to detail with each creation added to the visual storytelling and wonder of the magical world created on stage. The creative work of the Mischief Managers special effects team was truly bewitching, especially when coupled with precise lighting cues from Eva Anderson, Charlie Kassie, and Rory St. Dennis. For moments such as the dramatic explosion of a potion to the ominous fog that seemed to follow the dementors’ entrance, this immersive atmosphere could not have been conjured up without the meticulous planning of the special effects and lighting teams.

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Almonte and District High School’s production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: High School Edition was a riveting display of talent and dedication. Every aspect of the show was intentional from the stylistic acting choices of the actors to the flawless execution of the special effects. This cast and crew conjured an undoubtedly magical experience of artistry and authenticity.

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Chethna Adikari, Critic
Merivale High School

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Everyone remembers Harry Potter, but what happens after the Boy Who Lived beats Voldemort? Almonte and District High School’s Production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: High School Edition, answered this question. Almonte and District High School’s performance was guaranteed to transport you into the Wizarding World through the stunning special effects, seamless set transitions, and heartfelt acting.

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Taking place nineteen years after the events of the original novels, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child follows Harry’s son, Albus Severus Potter, who has grown to resent his father’s fame. After getting sorted into Slytherin and being brutally ostracized, his feelings only grow stronger. In an attempt to escape his father’s shadow, Albus and his best friend, Scorpius Malfoy, turn back time to save Cedric Diggory. However, when they get back they realize that messing with time can have dangerous consequences.

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Although every part of this show was exquisitely executed, the special effects were especially immersive. One of the main charms of the original Harry Potter series is the magic, and this show used special effects to capture that perfectly. Smoke featured prominently, being used to set the tone of the scenes, as well as in the magic. Throughout the show the smoke was controlled excellently, and used effectively to create mystique and tension. In one especially exciting moment, a confetti cannon was used to show a failed potion adding to the energy of the scene. Illusions appeared frequently, building on the mystery. When Albus’s class was learning how to use brooms, they used special effects to create the illusion that the brooms floated into the students’ hands.

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Another thing adding to the magic was the proficiency of the stage crew, known as the Mischief Managers. Using dark robes to blend into the set, they ensured that scene and set transitions were quick, smooth, and wonderfully organized. The Mischief Managers also helped keep the magic, overseeing special effects, managing the magical props, and assisting with quick changes. The Mischief Managers were an essential part of the performance, ensuring everything ran smoothly and effortlessly.

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Rhys Munro (L) performs as Craig Bowker Jr., Dev Stevenson (2ndFL) performs as Anny Fredericks, Dot Lockhart (2nd FR) performs as Rose Grainger-Weasley, and Salina Hoang (R) performs as a Hogwarts Student duringAlmonte and DIstrict High School’s Cappies production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Photo by Maria Vartanova /SuppliedArticle content

The special effects and stage crew were the perfect support to the stellar acting. Mycah Olson, who played Scorpius, brought a witty but heartbreaking performance, showing true versatility through pain, heartache, and grief. Olson’s counterpart, Cole Stevenson, who played Albus Potter, also gave an engaging performance. Stevenson used subtle shifts in body language and expression to demonstrate the nuance of Albus’s emotion and relationship with his father. The two leads had exquisite chemistry as best friends, and simply bounced off of one another.

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Almonte and District High School’s Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: High School Edition was truly a magical experience, bringing back all the nostalgia of the original series. Every detail was carefully planned to create a seamlessly stunning performance, capturing all the love and charm. Whether you’re a fan of the original series, or new to the Wizarding World entirely this production was a universal story about the power of love, resilience, and friendship.

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Stevie Angus, Critic
Immaculata School

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Time turners spun, spells flew, and hearts raced as Almonte and District High School’s production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: High School Edition went on a whirlwind journey through friendship, legacy, and the chaos of growing up.

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Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: High School Edition, based on the original play by J.K Rowling, John Tiffany, and Jack Thorne, follows Albus, Harry Potter’s son, as he struggles with living up to his father’s legacy. Sorted into Slytherin, Albus befriends Scorpius Malfoy, and together, they use a time turner to try and fix a past mistake. Their actions accidentally alter history, leading to a darker future. Albus and Scorpius must face these challenges, while learning about friendship, identity, and the pressure of expectations along the way.

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Almonte and District High School’s production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: High School Edition shone with strong acting and impressive special effects. The cast delivered emotional performances, while the creative use of visuals and magic brought the world of Hogwarts to life, making for a truly engaging show.

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Jack Lockhart (L) performs as Harry Potter, Marjorie Mennie (C) performs as Delphi Diggory,and Nick Roscoe (R) performs as Ron Weasley during Almonte and District High School’s Cappies production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child High School Edition, on April 27, 2025. Photo by Maria Vartanova /SuppliedArticle content

Cole Stevenson’s portrayal of Albus Potter was deep, capturing the character’s internal struggle and desire to forge his own identity beyond his father’s legacy. His nuanced performance resonated strongly, highlighting Albus’s vulnerability and resilience. Mycah Olson brought a unique blend of wit and sincerity to the role of Scorpius Malfoy. Olson effectively conveyed the character’s longing for acceptance and his unwavering loyalty for Albus, making their friendship the heart of the production. Together, their chemistry and emotional depth elevated the performance, making their characters’ journeys both compelling and relatable.

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Jack Lockhart brought a grounded and emotional presence to the role of Harry Potter, portraying him as a conflicted yet caring father. Nick Roscoe delivered Ron Weasley’s signature humour with charm, adding warmth to the show, while Penelope Smith portrayed Hermione Granger with confidence and authority, capturing her intelligence and leadership with grace. Together, the trio brought a sense of familiarity and nostalgia to their roles, honouring the original characters while making them their own. Their dynamic added depth to the storyline, balancing the show’s magical elements with heartfelt ones as well.

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The Mischief Managers worked their magic with creative special effects that added an extra layer of excitement to the production. With steam pouring out of people’s ears after eating candy to confetti cannons exploding out of potion bottles, the inventive use of effects brought a playful and immersive element to the show. These touches enhanced the magical atmosphere, making the wizarding world truly come to life.

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With powerful performances and imaginative staging, Almonte and District High School’s production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: High School Edition was more than just a play, it was a reminder of how deeply storytelling can connect generations.

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About the reviews:

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This final production of the 2024/2025 Canada’s Capital Cappies season by Almonte and District High School was reviewed by 26 critics representing 6 schools. The critic discussions were mentored by teacher Ciara Wallace Mackenzie of Nepean High School and student reviews were edited and selected for publication by teacher Stephanie Crouse of Nepean High School, who could see only the reviews, not the names or schools of the reviewers.

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Next up for Cappies: The 20th Anniversary Gala of Canada’s Capital Cappies celebrating high school theatre and journalism will be held Sunday, June 8, 2025 in Southam Hall at the National Arts Centre. The gala will include live performances from this season’s nominated plays and musicals and the announcement of the winners for both onstage and backstage awards.

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About the Cappies:

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The Citizen and 23 high schools are participating in the Cappies, a Washington, D.C.based program that uses high school critics to review high school theatre. The program is a unique partnership between the Ottawa Citizen, the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board and the Ottawa Catholic School Board. Two schools from other boards in the region and two private schools have also joined. The Cappies season culminates with an awards Gala in June graciously hosted by the National Arts Centre. Follow Canada’s Capital Cappies on Instagram @OttawaCappies.

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