Fancy stepping into the world of Harry Potter? Not just watching it, but really experiencing it. Well, now’s your chance to make that happen, and as a Potterhead since the age of three, I couldn’t wait to attend the launch of the Hogwarts Steam Train Experience here in the heart of Sydney.
Stepping onto the platform at Sydney’s Central Station, I joined the first group of Muggles to embark on the new Audible Express, a magical collaboration between Audible and Transport Heritage NSW.
Being transported into this enchanting universe that captured my heart and the hearts of millions was a like living out my childhood dream. There’s nothing like blending nostalgia, immersive storytelling, and just the right touch of wizardry to make you feel like you’re off to Hogwarts yourself.
The Journey Begins
Approaching the beautifully restored steam train, I felt a rush of excitement. Then came, the familiar hiss of steam, and the sound of the whistle. Suddenly, I was transported back in time, especially when I donned my headphones and listened to the new Audible version of my favourite Harry Potter classic.
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone is now being narrated by a new cast from the Audible series. including actor Hugh Laurie as Dumbledore and Matthew Macfadyen as Voldemort. Together their voices bring the story to life in a fresh, vivid way that gives the epic story a new lease of life. Whether you’re revisiting the series or discovering it for the first time, hearing the words as you roll through the city-side makes it feel utterly new again.
The Launch of Audible Express in Sydney
Before the train set off at the launch of Audibl Express, we listened to instrumental performances, violins, and cellos playing familiar Harry Potter themes. The music filled the Grand Central Station hall. In my head, I felt like I’d stepped right into the Great Hall at Hogwarts. My mind was thick with wonder and anticipation.
On board, we were treated to snacks, drinks, and a special cookie that determines their Hogwarts House at random. It’s a fun, lighthearted moment that sparks laughter among passengers as they discover whether they’re a brave Gryffindor, wise Ravenclaw, loyal Hufflepuff, or cunning Slytherin. For the record, I’m still a Hufflepuff, and proudly so!
My Real Life Audible Hogwart’s Express Adventure
The highlight, of course, is the immersive Audible storytelling that plays through your headphones as the journey unfolds. The narrators breathe life into J.K. Rowling’s words with energy and emotion, taking listeners through the first chapters of The Philosopher’s Stone. As you gaze out the window, watching Sydney’s suburbs, you feel as if you could be travelling the countryside just like Harry, Hermione and Ron. I felt the lines between fiction and reality begining to fade.
The experience is a blend of sound, motion, and imagination. And it shows us how technology can elevate our experiences, and bring together the charm of the past with the innovation of the present.
The Audible Express Magic Continues
When the train finally returns to Central Station, the spell doesn’t break immediately. Passengers were greeted by musicians once again, filling the air with one final burst of magical melody. And there were smiles all around. Smiles from children clutching their new house cookies to adults rediscovering the joy of Harry Potter all over again.
So, grab your wand, your fellow witches and wizards, maybe even your cat or owl (well, almost), and set off on this magical Audible Express adventure. It’s a celebration of sound, storytelling, and imagination. And, as always, shows the power of how a good story can always be trusted to transport us somewhere truly magical.
INFO:
Muggles are invited to experience ‘Harry Potter: The Full-Cast Audio Editions’ aboard the Audible Express.
More Info at Transport Heritage NSW here:
https://www.thnsw.com.au/post/audible-express-brings-the-magic-of-harry-potter-to-life
