The Reno Philharmonic brought the wizarding world to life in a whole new way as they performed alongside a screening of the first “Harry Potter” film. The scene was set in the Grand Theatre at Grand Sierra Resort, where the orchestra performed the iconic score by John Williams. Favorite songs from the original film came to life as patrons watched the movie on a giant screen above the live performers.

The “live-in-concert” events have been performed by orchestras across the nation, but this was the first time a “Harry Potter” film was presented this way in Reno.

Notable moments included the scene where a single harp plays to lull to sleep a three-headed dog. In the film, the harp strums itself, while on stage, the orchestra’s harpist brought the scene to life. Another magical moment came the first time the crowd heard “Hedwig’s Theme,” the film’s main score.

While it was a one-night-only event with no plans to be repeated, the conductor and the night’s host teased an ongoing series, announcing a similar production for “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” scheduled for Oct. 30, 2025.

The evening began at 7 p.m. (doors opened at 6 p.m.), and the theater was brimming with fans of all ages—many lined up halfway down the casino floor. Some, mostly younger viewers, came in costume. Audience reactions were encouraged throughout the film, as viewers laughed and cheered at prominent moments.

There was plenty of hooting and hollering during the Quidditch match, and boos rang out for the film’s less-favored characters, such as Aunt Petunia, Dudley and Professor Quirrell.

It was a great time to show appreciation not just for your house of choice, but also to celebrate the many stars of the film who have passed, including, most recently, Maggie Smith, who played Professor Minerva McGonagall.

If you missed this event, mark your calendars for next year’s film or keep an eye on the Reno Philharmonic for announcements of similar productions featuring other films.