Masked protesters removed from Harry Potter gala red carpet

Masked demonstrators lay on the red carpet ahead of a gala performance of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at London’s Palace Theatre on October 15, and security removed them from the area. The protest took place as guests arrived for an event marking a shorter version of the West End production. Footage described in reports showed protesters wearing masks and lying on the carpet before security intervened. One demonstrator wore a shirt bearing the words “Rowling money kills.” A report also described protesters shouting slogans calling for a boycott of J.K. Rowling and supporting transgender rights; another said a demonstrator used a bullhorn to read a statement. Those additional details were reported in one account. Neil Blair, Rowling’s agent, said the demonstration put audience members, performers and theatre staff at risk. In a statement, he said peaceful activism and the right to express different views should be respected, but added that they must be exercised without putting others at risk. The reports do not independently establish that anyone was endangered. Blair also said the production wanted to provide fans with a welcoming and safe experience at live theatre....