On October 18 and 19, step into a magical forest as Opera San Luis Obispo proudly presents the region’s first grand production of Engelbert Humperdinck’s beloved opera Hansel and Gretel complete with a live orchestra! Opera San Luis Obispo’s stunning production brings to life the enchanting fairytale with all the magic, wonder, drama, that has captivated audiences for generations.
Performed in English, experience this timeless story like never before, produced at grand scale with two-story woodland sets, vivid costumes, mesmerizing choreography, chorus, ballet, and a live orchestra. An internationally acclaimed cast will transport audiences through Humperdinck’s unforgettable score, guided by stage direction from Justine Prado, choreography by Drew Silvaggio, and the powerful OperaSLO Grand Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Brian Asher Alhadeff.
About Hansel and Gretel
Hansel and Gretel is an opera by Engelbert Humperdinck, first performed in 1893. Based on the Brothers Grimm fairytale, the opera tells the story of two poor siblings who get lost in the woods and encounter a witch living in a gingerbread house. With a libretto by Humperdinck’s sister, Adelheid Wette, the work blends folk songs with Wagnerian orchestration, creating music that’s rich yet approachable. Famous for its lush melodies, including the “Evening Prayer,” Hansel and Gretel is often considered a Christmas tradition in German-speaking countries. It’s admired for its blend of dark fairy-tale elements and enchanting music, striking a balance between childlike innocence and operatic sophistication.
