Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling’s relationship with the LGBTQ+ community has been contentious since a series of transphobic tweets in 2020. Rowling refused to back down or apologize even after backlash from the industry and cast of the Harry Potter film franchise, disappointing Harry Potter fans in the queer community who found comfort in the story of an outsider finding a chosen family.
PH Coffee presents “The-Pop-Up-That-Must-Not-Be-Named,” an original parody performance in collaboration with Rising Tide Productions that will not financially benefit Rowling, dubbed “She-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named,” and will instead donate a portion of proceeds (and all donations) to Lion House, a nonprofit LGBTQ-specific rehousing program.Â
The pop-up bar is a true trip through 2000s nostalgia, complete with pop rock-fizzled cocktails and chocolate rock frog desserts. Polyjuice potions and fire whiskey cocktails are also available for the “most powerful wizards,” but most cocktail options have a mocktail alternative. Harry Potter connoisseurs will appreciate the attention to decorative detail, with Easter eggs hidden around the cozy coffee house. Daring guests can volunteer for the interactive game portions of Rising Tide’s production.Â
The trio performing at “The-Pop-Up-That-Must-Not-Be-Named” spins the classic Harry Potter on its head and brings laughs through contemporary musical numbers. The adventures and relationships are given a fresh perspective without sacrificing the emotional core, and the script highlights many famous scenes as well as areas of Kansas City. “The-Pop-Up-That-Must-Not-Be-Named” is running at PH Coffee through July, every Thursday through Saturday. Tickets available here.