The Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling has left its mark on the entertainment scene since book one. This transformative take on the series by Matt Cox, “Puffs” has come to ARC. The comedy production opened February 21 and will conclude on March 2.
“Puffs” is a comedic parody following the story of Wayne Hopkins, an orphan boy from New Mexico who is invited to “a certain school of female magic and male magic,” and is sorted into Puffs House, the most forgotten house.
The production, directed by Jason Long, has been a college and high school favorite since “Puffs” first hit Broadway in 2015.
“Right now, it seemed like it was time to do a show that can make people laugh. Comedy is a balm for troubled times, something to bring [the] community together,” Long said in an interview.
Long further explained the show’s unique appeal, emphasizing the wit and adoration for the original.
“It so successfully balances a sweet adoration for the original stories […] with a kind of witty, critical eye commenting on those same stories,” Long said.
Cast members were supportive and showed great camaraderie.
“Everyone is so kind and supportive and is constantly lifting each other up, cracking jokes backstage, or just in general having a great time,” said Nick Roten, who plays the character Wayne Hopkins.
Another big consensus from the cast is the fun they’ve had on stage.
“I grew up as a massive fan of the book series, so it has been fun reliving that part of my childhood with this show,” said Joe Cochran, who plays J. Finch in the production.
Cochran also reflected on the personal significance of the production, noting how it allows him to reconnect with their childhood.
“Poking fun at such a prominent franchise that played an important role in people’s lives has been so enjoyable,” Cochran said “I have gotten to work with some amazing people who heighten the comedic moments of this show spectacularly.”
Another notable member of the production is Haley McKnight, who plays Megan Jones.
“Puffs is special to me because it’s a story about what it means to not be a chosen one,” said McKnight. “It follows these characters that aren’t destined for some larger-than-life fate, and explores their condition of feeling like a side character in someone else’s story.”
