

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.
- Status
- Released
- Budget
- —
- Box office
- —
- Language
- German
- witch
- opera
- fairy tale
Top billed cast
Behind the camera
Director
Produced in
Germany
Where to watch
Availability for United States. Provided by JustWatch through the TMDB API.
Rent
Gallery

Videos
No extra videos are listed for this title yet.
Release dates
GermanyDE
- Digital / OTT18 Nov 2008
Frequently asked questions
Humperdinck: Hänsel und Gretel was released on 18 November 2008.
Member reviews
Sign in to rate and review. Browsing stays free and open.
Sign inMember comments
0Sign in to post a comment. Browsing stays free and open.
Sign in











