Event: Harry Potter Exhibit at Telus World of Science
Intrepid Reporter: Wendy

With visions of wands, owls and golden snitches in the air, the Browncoats ventured to the Telus World of Science on Jan 18 to experience Harry Potter, the Exhibition. It was almost a 2 hour wait to get into the exhibit but it was well worth the wait. Amongst our group was Ron Weesley. He may have been an imposter as he seemed a bit tall, but maybe, just maybe, he was taller in real life…

As we entered the exhibit we were photographed with scarves of our favorite houses. Drew and ‘Ron’ got into their own picture but we did get this picture of the majority of the crowd.

As we entered the exhibit a few members of the crowd were chosen to be sorted by the hat. It appears that Slytherin and Gryffindor are pretty popular houses. As the tour progressed we were able to see many costumes and props from the movies. It was very interesting to see how the young characters grew during their years at Hogwarts. At one point we were able to give a try at quiddich by tossing a quaffle towards the goal. I think I might have a penchance for this, but sincerely doubt my ability to stay on a broom, even with those stirrups. I really liked Hagrid’s hut. His arm chair made all of us feel like little kids.

Other items on display included the Marauders map, weapons, jewelry, various wands and Harry’s glasses. The Hippogriff display was amazing. Buckbeak was exquisite and during the audio tour we learned that the cast and crew liked to turn on the animatronics and hang out with him during off hours. Buckbeak was very quiet compared to the Mandrake display. Mandrakes scream when you try to pull them out of the pots. A very annoying, ear piercing scream.

For me, the most interesting part of the Exhibition was the costumes. Everything from the casual clothes that the characters wore when not in school to the robes worn during class to the costumes worn to the Yule Ball, they were all there. The tour ended in Diagon Alley where us muggle types could purchase trinkets to remind us of the show. From stuffed owls, chocolate frogs, books and pens it was all there.

Once everyone was through, we gathered at a local eatery for supper. Another great day for the Browncoats!