On display from the 2nd May until the 4th September, Discovering Hogwarts will focus on Harry’s first years of spells and sorcery.
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour will mark its 11th anniversary with a new feature exploring Harry’s early years at Hogwarts with some favourite scenes brought to life at the Studio Tour for this special feature.
Discovering Hogwarts will see for the first time since filming over 400 floating candles will adorn the enchanted ceiling of the Great Hall, giving visitors a chance to step into the set just as the cast would have seen it during Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. During the film of the first film real, lit candles were used for the scene. However, for the safety of the cast and crew, Producers decided to add them later during post-production. For this special feature, the candles (which have been adapted by the talented Special Effects Department to use a light effect instead of a live flame) have been hung with over three miles of wire.
Those visiting from the 2nd May until the 4th September will also be able to be welcomed into one of Harry’s first experiences of magic; Professor Flitwick’s Charms class. A new set depicting the iconic scene in which a young Harry, Ron and Hermione learn to master Wingardium Leviosa will be revealed, sharing the filmmaking secrets behind the floating feathers. Fans will also be able to practice their wand skills as they learn the movement behind casting the famous Wingardium Leviosa spell.
Elsewhere, among the first magical person Harry met was beloved half-giant Hagrid. While actor Robbie Coltrane stood at 6ft, he was not quite tall enough to portray a half-giant. During many scenes, 6ft 10” England rugby player Martin Bayfield was used as a body double fitted with stilts and a prosthetic head to achieve Hagrid’s towering height. During Discovering Hogwarts, a live demonstration of this process will show visitors how the half-giant was brought to life right in front of their eyes.
Interactive experiences throughout the feature will tell the story of Harry’s first experiences in the wizarding world. Fans of all ages are invited to get hands on and create an origami ‘Sorting Ceremony’ chatterbox to take away, as well as taking a seat in a new photo opportunity depicting Harry’s first boat journey to Hogwarts. Access to this feature is included in the cost of the ticket.
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour officially opened to the public on the 31st March 2012. The experience allows fans of the Harry Potter series get up close to authentic sets, discover the magic behind spellbinding special effects and explore the behind-the-scenes secrets of the Harry Potter film series. Visitors can explore the original Great Hall, step into the Forbidden Forest, and discover Gringotts Wizarding Bank.
To book tickets visit: https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/