Humperdinck: Hänsel und Gretel
Hocus pocus! Hansel and Gretel in a fairy production by Johannes Felsenstein
Johannes Felsenstein’s production of HANSEL AND GRETEL presents it with every sinister element removed. The children remain in a home setting with their own bed central to the scene and the barest hint of a forest behind, while their father plays the witch as an amiable, totally benevolent figure, not sinister at all, even joining them in the final joyful ensemble. When they sing that the witch is dead, you find that the production contradicts that completely. Taking that unsinister stance means that the opera loses much of its bite. No doubt Felsenstein felt that it would make the piece more accessible for very young children, though many of them relish the sinister element. That said, it is a strong and capable performance, very well conducted and with a cast of good if not outstanding singers. One wonders what Felsenstein meant to convey, just as it is not clear why the central characters should regularly be carrying dolls. A highly individual version of a much-loved opera.
Directed by Brooks Riley
Where to Watch
Rent or Buy
Cast
- Ludmil Kuntschew Peter, broom maker
- Alexandra Petersamer Gertrud, his wife
- Sabine Noack Hänsel, their son
- Cornelia Marschall Gretel, their daughter
- Ludmil Kuntschew The Witch
- Viktorija Kaminskaite Sandman, the sleep fairy
- Viktorija Kaminskaite Dewman, the dew fairy
Make it a double feature
4h 11m together
Humperdinck: Hänsel und Gretel
Into the Woods
A close match in mood and era.
