Universal Studios Holds Fireworks Spectacular with 'Harry Potter' Attraction Premiere

By PETERSON GONZAGA

Front Row Features

HOLLYWOOD—It was a long red carpet for the premiere of Universal Studios Hollywood new attraction “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” Tuesday. Helping celebrate the event were cast members from the “Harry Potter” films including Warwick Davis (Professor Flitwick), Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy), Evanna Lynch (Luna Lovegood) along with James and Oliver Phelps (Fred Weasley and George Weasley).

Celebrities in attendance included Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, Ed O’Neill ( “Modern Family”), Thandie Newton (“Mission: Impossible III”), Vanessa Hudgens (“Spring Breakers”) and Alanna Masterson (“The Walking Dead”), among others.

Building on the success of the Warner Bros. film franchise and Harry Potter attraction at Universal Studios Orlando and and Universal Studios Japan, the company launched its Hollywood attraction. Mayor Garcetti spoke about what the new attraction means for Universal Studios and the City of Los Angeles.

“It’s phenomenal for L.A. and we welcome so many international visitors,” he said. “We’re proud of our diversity. Folks will come here from around the world and feel at home,” added Garcetti.

For Felton, who appeared in all eight “Harry Potter” films as the title character’s nemesis, it was a bit surreal but not a total surprise as he remembered coming to Universal Studios 20 years ago.

“It’s great,” he said. ” I came here on a family holiday, so it’s pretty bizarre to be here with my own piece of an attraction. Maybe one day I’ll get to bring my kids here as well.”

“The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” includes a quaint village of shops and streets reminiscent of the books and movies’ Hogsmeade, along with two new thrill rides, “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and the family outdoor coaster, “Flight of the Hippogriff.” The “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” features a 3D motion thrill ride taking the riders on an adventure through the Hogwarts Castle, and the exciting journey Harry went through throughout the “Harry Potter” film franchise.

The premiere event culminated with acclaimed award-winning composer John Williams conducting the Los Angeles Philharmonic playing selections from the “Harry Potter” films, as a light show and fireworks lie up Hogwarts Castle.