Behind the Magic: In Conversation with John Tiffany, Director of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Ever wondered what it’s like to bring the magical world of Harry Potter to the stage? We had the privilege of asking John Tiffany (Rip), the visionary director of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and an Artis Patron, some intriguing questions. Before delving into his insights, let’s take a brief journey into the history that shaped this creative maestro.

The Man Behind the Magic

John Tiffany is more than just a director; he is a force of creativity and inspiration. Born in Huddersfield, John’s journey into the enchanting realm of storytelling and the performing arts began to unfold during his academic years. After studying Classics and Theatre at the University of Glasgow, John’s passion led him to further refine his craft at the National Youth Theatre and the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama.

His early experiences laid the foundation for a career marked by innovation and a touch of magic. John’s unique ability to blend traditional theatrical techniques with cutting-edge innovation set him apart as a pioneering force in the industry. In addition to his directorial prowess, he has embraced the role of Artis Patron, supporting our mission of transforming lives through the arts.

Questions from children at Denby Dale First & Nursery School

The following questions were posed by children from one of our Partner Schools Denby Dale First & Nursery School, which is situated close to where John Tiffany grew up.

The Play

What is your favourite scene in the play?

That’s such a hard question! I enjoy watching the Polyjuice scene because the audience always gasps.

What do you like about directing?

I really love telling stories to an audience for the first time.

How long does it take to produce a play?

It depends. I started working on the story of the Cursed Child in 2014 and we opened it 2 years later.

Were any parts of directing the play really stressful?

The final battle was really hard and took a long time to get right.

Do you have to do everything yourself or do people help you?

I have many people who help me – choreographers, designers, magicians, composers and technicians are all involved in making a show with me.

Is it fun to be a director?

It can be a lot of fun – why don’t you find out for yourself?

Personal Favourites

What do you love about West Yorkshire?

Huddersfield is the place I feel most at home – and the people make me laugh!

What was your favourite thing about school?

The friends I made there.

Do you have any pets? What are they called?

Not at the moment – I’m too busy – but my first pet was a rabbit called Snowy.

What is the thing you are most proud of?

That I’ve directed shows that people have loved.

As we unravel John’s thoughts and experiences, it’s evident that his passion for storytelling and his love for the magical world extend far beyond the stage. His journey, filled with creativity and dedication, continues to inspire both aspiring directors and avid fans alike. The magic of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child wouldn’t be complete without the wizardry of its Director, who, as an Artis Patron, is dedicated to transforming children and young peoples lives through the power of art, performance, and creativity.