Albus Potter comes to Wesley
Last month, the St Kilda Road Campus Public Questions Society (PQS) hosted professional actor Ben Walter (OW2015), who is currently starring as Albus Potter in the magical, hugely successful production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the Princess Theatre.
Harry and Albus
Gareth Reeves as Harry Potter and Ben Walter as Albus Potter. Photo: Daniel Boud
Rose, Scorpius and Albus
Aisha Adara as Rose Granger-Weasley, Nyx Calder as Scorpius Malfoy and Ben Walter as Albus Potter in the Australian production of 'Cursed Child'. Photo: Damien Bennett
In rehearsals
Ben Walter works with Cursed Child dialect coach, Geraldine Cook. Photo: Damien Bennett
Students had a number of questions for Ben; some focused on his career and any advice he could offer them, others on the Cursed Child production itself and the legacy of Harry Potter. Ben’s passion for the field was evident as he discussed the best parts of being in the Cursed Child, and spoke about the challenges he has faced during his career.
The session was very informative, particularly for students with an interest in pursuing acting. Ben spoke openly about his career path from The Adamson Theatre Company at the St Kilda Road Campus, to starting his own production company, to playing Albus Potter and being part of a global production.
The audience also asked about the challenges of a full show schedule, the amazing special effects used in the Cursed Child and the legacy of Harry Potter in the context of J.K Rowling’s bigotry. Ben’s responses were thought-provoking and entertaining, and we thank him for taking the time to speak to PQS.
Eloisa Belmar Osborn, PQS Prefect
If any members of the Wesley community have suggestions for future speakers, please contact me here.
