JK Rowling has revealed new stage play Harry Potter And The Cursed Child will be released in two parts.

The writer announced the play this summer, revealing it is based on a new story she has co-written, exploring “an untold part of Harry’s story” and is not a prequel.

JK Rowling
(Lefteris Pitarakis/AP)

Now JK has announced there will be two instalments of the theatre production, the first of which is due to open in London in summer 2016.

The play is written by Skins’ Jack Thorne, from a story he co-wrote with JK and director John Tiffany.

He told fansite Pottermore: “Obviously I loved it when we decided to tell this story in two parts, because I got to spend more time with the characters and what an honour that has been.”

Tony and Olivier Award-winning director John added: “I’ve never worked on anything quite like this before.

“Usually in theatre you’re adapting existing material or creating an entirely new play. With the Cursed Child we have been given the unique opportunity to explore some of the most cherished books and beloved characters ever written, yet work with JK Rowling to tell a story from that world that no one yet knows – it’s exhilarating.”

JK previously revealed why she decided on the medium of theatre rather than another page-turner.

Harry Potter And The Cursed Child, directed by John, will open at London’s Palace Theatre, with tickets going on sale in the autumn.