Humperdinck
Hansel and GretelA Scottish Opera film
Humperdinck's magical fairy tale - in a bright and vivid new staging as part of Scottish Opera: On Screen.
Banished from home by their exasperated parents, Hansel and Gretel plunge deep into the forest, ready for whatever adventures might come their way. But not everything is as it seems in this enchanted wood and the pair will need their wits about them if they're to escape the clutches of the Christmas-crazed Witch who lurks there. As they venture through an eerie world of magic, fireflies and fairies they find that if they hang onto hope, even the darkest moments can be overcome.
‘This show is fun for all the family, bright colours, big energy and plenty of glitter! A production about hope and a wish that things will recover and the power of theatre will never die.'
– Daisy Evans
This fun, inventive and often poignant new staging from Daisy Evans (The Telephone) features Kathleen Ferrier Award-winner Kitty Whately as Hansel and Rhian Lois (La bohème 2020) as Gretel, alongside Nadine Benjamin, Phillip Rhodes, former Scottish Opera Emerging Artist Charlie Drummond (Così fan tutte 2020) and a small chorus. Conductor David Parry leads The Orchestra of Scottish Opera.
Humperdinck’s lush and majestic score is one to revel in and has something for everyone – from the beautiful ‘Evening Prayer’ to enchanting folk-inspired melodies – perfect for audiences young and old.
Filmed on 19 December 2020. All performers observe current physical distancing guidelines throughout the filming of this concert.
English translation by David Pountney
Reduced orchestration by Derek Clark
Running time approx. 1 hour 40 mins
Sung in English
Audio-described version also available
Booking not necessary
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Watch
Cast & Creatives
Hansel
Kitty Whately
Gretel
Rhian Lois
Mother & the Witch
Nadine Benjamin
Father
Phillip Rhodes
Sandman & the Dew Fairy
Charlie Drummond
Chorus
Barbara Cole Walton, Clíona Cassidy, Jane Monari, Sarah Shorter
Conductor
David Parry
Staging
Daisy Evans
Film Director
Jonathan Haswell
Audio Producer
Derek Clark
Lighting Designer
Neil Foulis
Programme
Go behind the scenes of our latest staging of Hansel and Gretel.
On stage
What the press said
'A highly enjoyable film that boasts brilliant playing of Humperdinck’s memorable and lovely music.' ★★★★ The Telegraph
'Magic.' ★★★★ Bachtrack
'Beautifully sung.' The Times
'Expertly played and lovingly conducted.' The Stage
'The singing is top class.' Vox Carnyx