Humperdinck: Hansel und Gretel

This production of Engelbert Humperdinck's fairy-tale opera "Hansel and Gretel" follows the story of two children who wander into a magical forest and encounter a wicked witch. Lost and hungry, Hansel and Gretel are lured by the scent of gingerbread to a cottage made of sweets, only to discover their host is an ancient sorceress who plans to eat them. They must use their wits to overcome the witch and find their way back home.

David McVicar's 2008 production of "Hansel and Gretel" at the Royal Opera House was widely praised for its imaginative and child-friendly staging, which transformed the traditional fairy tale into a visually captivating experience. Critics lauded the powerful vocal performances and the effective depiction of both the Grimm brothers' dark fairy tale elements and the opera's underlying emotional depth. The production successfully balanced childlike wonder with genuine menace, making it a memorable and critically acclaimed rendition of the beloved opera.

• Praised for its inventive and magical set design that appeals to both children and adults.

• Acclaimed for strong vocal performances that brought emotional weight to the characters.

• Noted for successfully capturing the darker, more menacing aspects of the fairy tale alongside its charm.

Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the enchanting visual spectacle and the emotional resonance of the opera. Many appreciated the clever staging that made the fairy tale accessible and engaging, with particular praise for the witch's portrayal and the overall atmospheric quality of the performance.

The set design for David McVicar's production famously featured a real, edible gingerbread house for the witch's cottage, adding an extra layer of sensory experience for the audience.