Review: HARRY POTTER IN CONCERT, Royal Albert Hall

The first in a series of film concerts dedicated to the massively successful Harry Potter film franchise is currently making its way around the world, stopping off for a few days at the historic Royal Albert Hall. It is an experience like no other, with the London Philharmonic Orchestra onstage and a large screen suspended in front of the choir stalls.

In case you've been living under a rock for the past 20 years, the first story is Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone - the 2001 film (adapted from the 1997 book) introducing us to J.K. Rowling's magical world of wizards and muggles. Orphaned as a baby, Harry is reluctantly brought up by his aunt and uncle, until he receives his letter from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry on his 11th birthday. From then he's thrust into a world he knew nothing about, making friends and battling enemies along the way.

As conductor Justin Freer made his introductions, he was clear about one thing: he wanted the audience to feel comfortable responding to the show in any way they felt right. This kind of open invitation could go either way, but with a room full of dedicated fans it actually made it an even more enjoyable experience. Cheers went up for favourite characters and actors (the biggest of all going to the late Alan Rickman, a poignant moment), fans who know their Hogwarts house reacted appropriately, and some boos went up for the villain of the piece. There was even room for the odd heckle, as a shout of "FIX!" went up when Dumbledore awarded last-minute points to Gryffindor.

The sound was extraordinarily well balanced; it could be so easy for a live orchestra to drown out the dialogue and sound effects of the film, but everything worked perfectly together. As the first few bars of "Hedwig's Theme" rang out, you could hear a pin drop - and the excitement was palpable.

It was also a great idea to introduce an interval, as it allowed for an outro as well as an entr'acte to be added in for extra enjoyment. This also served as a reminder that it was a live concert, rather than a simple screening, and was reminiscent of the fact that old school cinema showings included a break.

We were assured by Freer that this was indeed the first show of eight (The Chamber of Secrets comes to the Royal Albert Hall at the end of April next year), as they tour this concept around the world. As with the Doctor Who proms that have previously featured as part of the BBC Proms seasons, this kind of concert screening could well succeed in introducing more people to classical music. Not only that, but it's another wonderful way to dive into the world of Harry Potter, whilst celebrating John Williams' iconic score.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone in Concert is at the Royal Albert Hall until 14 May