A new exhibition and accompanying BBC documentary has just been announced by the National History Museum, in collaboration with Warner Bros.
Opening this Spring at the National History Museum in London, the exhibition will run for 7 months before going on an international tour and will showcase an exploration of the parallels between magical and natural creatures:
BBC One is creating a new documentary, to be presented by Stephen Fry, which will dive into the fascinating history of some of the world’s most awe-inspiring beasts (we’ll have more news on when that will air soon, so watch this space).
Both the documentary and exhibition will look at remarkable animal behaviours and abilities in the natural world, and explore the history as well as connections that inspired and helped bring to life the magical creatures of the Wizarding World. Beasts, both magical and Muggle, will have their stories told, from 11,000-year-old woolly rhinos to Erumpents and Zouwus. Through innovative storytelling, both teams hope to inspire visitors and viewers to help care for and protect the planet today, and in the future.
Visitors will learn about the character of Magizoologist Newt Scamander, who made his first appearance in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. Like the Museum’s own scientists, Newt dedicates his life to better understanding and protecting wildlife and the environments they rely on.
Clare Matterson CBE, Executive Director of Engagement at the Museum, says, ‘Bringing characters from the wizarding world together with some of the most fantastic creatures from the natural world will produce a captivating experience that will show how the natural world has inspired legends and stories that have enthralled generations.
After being introduced to the mythical creatures and some of the real animals which may have inspired their tales, visitors will familiarise themselves with the tools and techniques used by both Newt and real-world scientists before discovering fantastic beasts for themselves.
In addition to the international tour and documentary, a physical book about the exhibition will be released by Bloomsbury, while Pottermore will be releasing a digital and audio book in the future.
No dates have yet been released but the first wave of tickets will be released January 16th. Sign up to the National History Museum’s newsletter for more information and a chance to access priority booking.
UPDATE:
WizardingWorld have announced that Wizarding World Gold members will receive early access to exhibition tickets, as well as 10% off the ticket price, as part of their membership.
Subscribers will receive access to tickets on January 14th, two days before the general public, with the exhibition running from May 22nd until January 3rd 2021.
Be sure to check the link in your Wizarding Passport ‘vault’ on the 14th if you’re a Gold subscriber!
