Harry Potter casts a new spell on his 36th birthday

Date

8/1/2016 12:51:12 AM

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)

Related News

Pictures: New Harry Potter book goes on sale in Dubai

31 July 2016

It was a magical night for Harry Potter fans as beloved characters from the novels came to life during the young wizard's birthday bash held in Dubai early on Sunday. The event at Virgin Megastore in the Mall of the Emirates saw the launch of the latest book in the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

The late hour did not deter fans from flocking to the mall, as Rubeus Hagrid and Professor Severus Snape cast their spells between 1.30am and 4am. Children and young adults were seen dressed up as students of Hogwarts. At the entrance was the 'sorting hat', where fans could determine their houses in the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry based on hats that fit them.

Fans grabbed the free popcorn, candies and juices on offer as the first movie in the Harry Potter series was screened at the venue. They got to live their fantasies, too, as they waved their magic wands while watching the movie.

About 250 copies of the book were sold out within the first 20 minutes of the launch, according to Christopher Clothier, senior buyer for Virgin Megastores Middle East.

About the event itself, he said: "Excited doesn't cover it. Like so many people, I grew up with Harry, Hermione and Ron. The prospect of going back into that world for a whole new adventure is practically too much to take. At this point, so many readers out there can point to (J.K.) Rowling's books as where their love of reading really blossomed and it's a passion that is being passed down to the next generation. It's been nine years since Deathly Hallows and people are really itching to feel the magic again."

They got the books first

Kalindi Bhatia and Ella Manalastas were the first two fans to get the book.

Zara Khan, an ardent fan, said: "I am really excited to get the book because I grew up reading Harry Potter stories in my school days."

Hanoz Navdar is not a fan of the book, but stopped by for his sister. "I am here to purchase the book for my sister, who is actually a big fan of Harry Potter and she specially called me to ask me if I could buy the book for her."

Another fan, Eunseo Nam, said, "Harry Potter has been a really big part of my childhood and I have read all his books. I was just waiting for something else to come, something new and here it is!"

Safe to say then, J.K. Rowling continues to charm her readers with her writing spells!

Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.