University of Redlands Opera – Hansel and Gretel #1
Glenn Wallichs Theatre 380 N University St, RedlandsComposed by Engelbert Humperdinck and Directed by Cindy Snyder, Co-Direction by Malcolm Swan
Performance Dates: Feb. 2 & 3, 2024
Premiere: Weimar, Court Theater, 1893. Originally conceived as a small-scale vocal entertainment for children, Hansel and Gretel resonates with both adults and children, and has become one of the most successful fairy-tale operas ever created. The composer, Engelbert Humperdinck, was a protégé of Richard Wagner's, and the opera’s score is flavored with the sophisticated musical lessons he learned from his idol while maintaining a charm and a light touch that were entirely Humperdinck’s own. The opera acknowledges the darker features present in the Brothers Grimm version of the familiar folk tale yet presents them within a frame of grace and humor. The School of Performing Arts production features exciting visuals, a full orchestra, and the wonderful voices of talented U of R students
