The Printworks is already set to turn into the home of Hogwarts essentials, Diagon Alley for its fan convention on 21 and 22 July, but Friday 20th July will be the night to remember as it aims to get over 1,000 wizards and witches all in one place at one time. The current record stands at 997, set by a school in Australia.
Entry to the world record is free but participants need to order a ticket in advance and register by 5:00 pm ready for the record attempt at 6:30 pm. Participants must also be dressed in complete Harry Potter costume, which must include a wand, glasses, Hogwarts school uniform, and a fake scar on the forehead.
For every person that dresses up as Harry Potter, Draigcon will donate £1 to the Hits Radio Cash for Kids appeal.
The Draigcon weekender will see actors including Chris Rankin (Percy Weasley) fly into The Printworks, alongside crew, cast, prop makers and set builders to take part in the fan convention which is set to attract thousands of Potter fanatics. The previously sold-out event has now release more tickets due to an expansion in venue space, so you’d be a muggle to miss out!
As well as live Q&As with the team behind the films, including Brian Muir, sculptor for sets and props in Harry Potter movies and also the man who designed the famous Darth Vader helmet, there will also be a magic themed market, special Harry Potter themed shows, and the loveable house-elf, Dobby, will be hosting a ‘Sock Appeal’, collecting clothes to benefit those homeless in Manchester. A full orchestra at Chethams will also be playing a selection of John Williams scores (including the Harry Potter theme).
Fred Booth, centre director of The Printworks, said: “This promises to be a hugely popular convention and we’re delighted to be hosting it here at The Printworks. So much so that we decided to host the World Record as well to really make this a weekend to remember! We can’t wait to see the hords of Harry Potter’s arriving!”
Carl Whiteley, event organiser of Draigcon, added: “We can’t wait to see everyone dressed up and getting involved to kick start the weekend of Harry Potter magic. It would be fantastic if we could break a Guinness World Record – it’d be like winning the Quidditch World Cup!
The Printworks, 27 Withy Grove, Manchester M4 2BS
www.draigcon.co.uk/
