Wheeling, WV – Music lovers and Harry Potter fans alike have a reason to gather this Friday at the historic Capitol Theatre. Maestro John Devlin will lead the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra (WSO) in a live‑to‑picture performance of the beloved third installment, “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.” The concert will feature the iconic John Williams score performed in real time while the film streams in high‑definition on a 40‑foot screen.
Local orchestra embraces a global phenomenon
Founded in 1939, the Wheeling Symphony has a long tradition of bringing diverse programming to the community. This year, the orchestra joins the worldwide Harry Potter Film Concert Series, a partnership between Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences and CineConcerts. Since the series debuted with “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” in 2016, more than 4.5 million fans have attended shows across 48 countries, and the WSO is proud to add West Virginia to that list.
What audiences can expect
Concertgoers will hear the full orchestral score, from the soaring “Double Trouble” chase to the haunting “Dementors” motif, all synchronized with the on‑screen action. WSO Music Director John Devlin says, “I cannot wait to turn the Capitol Theatre into Hogwarts for this exciting third installment of the ‘Harry Potter’ franchise. Our audience loved the first two movies in concert, so I know from experience that hearing John Williams’ music performed live alongside the film will thrill our audiences and give them an entirely new way to experience this beloved story.”
In addition to the music, the production includes visual effects that enhance key moments—such as the appearance of the Hippogriff and the chilling presence of the Dementors—making the experience immersive for both longtime fans and newcomers.
Community impact and family-friendly fun
The event aligns with the Symphony’s mission to provide cultural enrichment for families, students, and seniors throughout the Ohio Valley. By offering a high‑quality, affordable night out, the WSO helps strengthen community bonds and supports local tourism. Nearby restaurants and hotels are expected to see increased patronage, further boosting the local economy.
Justin Freer, president of CineConcerts, notes, “The Harry Potter film series is a once‑in‑a‑lifetime cultural phenomenon that continues to delight millions of fans around the world. As we celebrate 25 years since audiences first discovered Hogwarts on the big screen, there is no better way to honor that legacy than experiencing this music performed live by a symphony orchestra, all while the beloved film is simultaneously projected onto the big screen.”
Brady Beaubien of CineConcerts adds, “Twenty‑five years later, the magic of ‘Harry Potter’ continues to unite generations of fans. Performing this incredible music live with the full film allows audiences to celebrate that legacy together in a way that simply isn’t possible at home.”
Practical details
The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available through the Wheeling Symphony’s website and at the Capitol Theatre box office. Families are encouraged to arrive early for seating, and concessions will feature themed treats for children. For more information, visit harrypotterinconcert.com or the Wheeling Symphony’s site at wheelingsymphony.com.
This event underscores the power of the arts to bring people together, celebrate shared stories, and enrich the cultural fabric of Wheeling. Whether you’re a die‑hard Potterhead or simply enjoy a night of orchestral music, the concert promises an unforgettable evening for the entire family.
Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.
