"Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" is a two-part stage play written by Jack Thorne, based on an original story by J.K. Rowling, John Tiffany, and Jack Thorne. It is set 19 years after the events of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" and follows Harry Potter's son, Albus Severus Potter, as he navigates life at Hogwarts and deals with his father's legacy.

Key Details:

• Original Release: July 30, 2016 (script book published alongside the play's premiere)

• Genre: Fantasy / Drama (play format, not a traditional novel)

• Setting: Primarily Hogwarts and the Wizarding World, with time-travel elements.

Plot Summary:

Albus Potter struggles under the weight of his family's fame and befriends Scorpius Malfoy (son of Draco). When Albus learns of a forbidden Time-Turner, he and Scorpius attempt to change the past to save someone Harry lost—leading to dangerous consequences that alter their present.

Controversies & Reception:

• Some fans criticized the plot twists (particularly regarding time travel and characterizations).

• Unlike the original books, it was not written as a novel by Rowling, leading to debates over canonicity.

• The stage production (directed by John Tiffany) has been praised for its special effects and performances.

Adaptations & Editions:

• "Special Rehearsal Edition" Script (2016) – Initial release.

• "Final Version" Script (2017) – Revised for broader productions.

• The play has been performed in London, New York, Melbourne, Hamburg, Toronto, and other cities.