Theatre News

JK Rowling confirms Harry Potter stage adaptation

The author has released a statement confirming the project, which could hit theatres in 2015

The cast of the film series was led by Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint
The cast of the film series was led by Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint
© Warner Bros.

Author JK Rowling has confirmed she is collaborating with theatre producers Sonia Friedman and Colin Callender on a new stage adaptation of the Harry Potter stories.

Rowling will be co-producer on the project, but will not write the adaptation herself.

She said: "Over the years I have received countless approaches about turning Harry Potter into a theatrical production, but Sonia and Colin’s vision was the only one that really made sense to me, and which had the sensitivity, intensity and intimacy I thought appropriate for bringing Harry's story to the stage."

The play will explore the "previously untold story" of Harry's early years as an orphan and outcast.

According to press material, the stage version "will offer a unique insight into the heart and mind of the now legendary young wizard".

The seven-book series was successfully adapted for film starring Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint (currently on stage in the West End in the WhatsOnStage Award-nominated Mojo).

Writers and directors are now being considered, and the project will move into development in 2014.

Rowling added: "After a year in gestation it is exciting to see this project moving on to the next phase. I’d like to thank Warner Bros. for their continuing support in this project."