Hansel & Gretel
Composed in the late 19th century by German musician Engelbert Humperdinck, this opera is based on the classic children's tale by the Brothers Grimm. With its universal theme of virtue's triumph over evil, Hansel and Gretel has become a favorite for opera fans for all ages. Initially working upon his sister's request that he compose music for a play for her children, Humperdinck eventually went on developing his ideas and wound up writing the music for what was to become his first opera. With the addition of a brilliantly written libretto by this sister, Adelheid Wette, Humperdinck's opera was a crowd-pleaser from its very first performance in Weimar, Germany, in 1893. As conductor of this opera at its premiere, Richard Strauss described it as "a masterpiece of the highest quality...the salvation of German opera." Fusing Wagnerian techniques with traditional German folk songs, Humperdinck's opera achieved much popularity and success around the world. With an extravagant food fight, chilling forest scenes and elaborately constructed sets, this exceptional production abounds in spellbinding feasts for the eyes and ears. Featuring Imelda Drumm and Linda Kitchen in the lead roles and Nigel Robson as the Witch, this Welsh National Opera production brings this fantastic version of the well-loved classic to life.