Harry Potter Film Concert Series 2027 in Abu Dhabi

The Harry Potter Film Concert Series 2027 in Abu Dhabi returns to Etihad Arena on Yas Island for two nights, with the UAE National Orchestra playing the full scores live while the films play on a giant screen. Friday 5 February is Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban in Concert, and Saturday 6 February is Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire in Concert: the third and fourth chapters of the story, back to back.

Both nights start at 7:30pm. Doors open an hour earlier, and you can take your seat from 7pm.

How a film concert works

If you have never been to one, the format is simple and surprisingly moving. The complete film is shown with its dialogue and sound effects, but the music track is removed. Instead, a full symphony orchestra on stage performs every cue in real time, perfectly timed to the action on screen. You hear the score the way it was recorded, only louder, richer and with the added thrill of watching the musicians land each moment.

The series is licensed by Warner Bros., which holds the rights to the films and wizarding world elements, and has played to audiences around the world. In Abu Dhabi, the music is in the hands of the UAE National Orchestra, so this is also a chance to see the country’s own national ensemble on one of its biggest stages.

Night one: Prisoner of Azkaban

The 2004 film, directed by Alfonso Cuarón, is where the series takes a darker, more grown-up turn. Michael Gambon steps in as Dumbledore, Hogwarts looks moodier and wilder, and Harry learns the truth about Sirius Black, played by Gary Oldman, with David Thewlis joining the cast as Professor Lupin.

The score is by John Williams, his third and final Harry Potter soundtrack. Listen out for:

• “Double Trouble”, the medieval-flavoured choral piece heard as students arrive at Hogwarts.
• “Buckbeak’s Flight”, one of the most soaring passages in the whole series.
• The Dementors’ music, cold and unsettling, and much more effective live than through speakers.
• The Patronus finale by the lake, where the orchestra builds to a huge climax.

Night two: Goblet of Fire

The 2005 film, directed by Mike Newell, brings the Triwizard Tournament to Hogwarts and ends with Voldemort’s return, with Ralph Fiennes taking on the role for the first time and Robert Pattinson appearing as Cedric Diggory. The music is by Patrick Doyle, the Scottish composer who took over from Williams for this chapter and gave it a broader, more romantic sound while keeping the famous Hedwig’s Theme.

Highlights include the dragon task against the Hungarian Horntail, the swirling waltz of the Yule Ball and the graveyard scene, where Doyle’s music turns heavy and dark. It is a big, eventful film and the orchestra gets plenty to do.

Which night should you choose?

Each ticket is valid only for the date and film you choose, so it helps to know the difference:

• Prisoner of Azkaban suits fans of John Williams’ music and anyone who loves the series’ more atmospheric, magical side.
• Goblet of Fire is more of an action film, with tournament set pieces, the Yule Ball and a dramatic finale.
• Both nights make sense for devoted fans, as you get two consecutive chapters with two different composers’ styles.

Floor seats are all on the same level, so if you want a raised view of both the screen and the orchestra, the tiered seating is the better pick.

Who it suits and the rules

The concerts are made for Harry Potter fans of all generations and anyone who loves film music. Families should note the age rules: children under six, including babies in arms, are not admitted, and under-16s must be with an adult aged 21 or over. Staff may ask for photo ID and the card used to buy the tickets.

• Latecomers are seated at management’s discretion at a suitable break, and each act begins with an auditorium lockout of up to 10 minutes.
• Photography and video, including on phones, are not allowed during the performance.
• Bags larger than 30 x 30 x 15 cm are not permitted, and there is no cloakroom or storage.
• There is no re-entry once you leave.
• Access is available for people of determination, but accessible tickets must be bought in advance.
• Tickets are non-refundable, non-transferable and non-exchangeable.

Getting to Etihad Arena

From central Abu Dhabi, take Sheikh Zayed Road and follow the signs to Yas Island and Etihad Arena. Most taxi drivers know the venue, and the nearest bus stop is Al Matar Al Qadeem, about 800 metres away.

Find more live music in our concerts guide, family ideas in kids’ events, or plan the weekend with things to do in Abu Dhabi and what is on in February.