From the cobbled streets of Hogsmeade to the towering Hogwarts Castle, “Today” brings the magic of Harry Potter to muggles everywhere. On Friday, June 18, Ann Curry and Al Roker broadcast live from the Universal Orlando Resort at the grand opening of one of the most widely anticipated theme park experiences ever created – The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Curry and Roker will give viewers an all-access tour of the majestic theme park where the excitement of Harry Potter’s world comes to life. As they explore the passageways, classrooms and corriodors, they will chat with the stars of the Harry Potter films, Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Bonnie Wright, James Phelps, Oliver Phelps, Matthew Lewis and Michael Gambon. In addition to the pulse-pounding rides, and the shops of Hogsmeade Village, “Today” will feature special performances by the Frog Choir and the Triwizard Rally as well as magic wand fittings and Butterbeer tasting.
This spring, “Today” viewers chose Lindsay Richard’s first grade class at Wilderness Oak Elementary in San Antonio, Texas as the winner of “Today’s” Wizarding World of Harry Potter Contest to attend the grand opening. The contest searched for extraordinary classrooms across the country. As a surprise, “Today” and Universal also invited the three runners-up to attend the festivities: Anna Sullivan’s 8th-grade math class at San Miguel School in Tulsa, Oklahoma; Cheryl Beckwith’s 4th-grade class at Bill Roberts School in Denver, Colorado; and Holly Darling’s 5th-grade class at Centreville Elementary School in Centreville, Virginia.
Inspired by J.K. Rowling’s compelling stories and characters, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort will provide visitors with a one-of-a-kind experience complete with multiple themed attractions, shops and a restaurant. Guests will explore vast sets punctuated by amazing special effects and have an adventure only possible in Harry Potter’s world.
Jim Bell is the executive producer of “Today” (Monday-Friday, 7-11 a.m.). Dee Dee Thomas is the senior producer responsible for “Today” at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at The Universal Orlando Resort.