Hänsel & Gretel at Sydney Opera House

About the Event

Immerse yourself in a world of enchantment with Hänsel & Gretel at the Sydney Opera House. This spellbinding performance of Engelbert Humperdinck's classic opera offers a mesmerizing experience for audiences of all ages. Held in the iconic Sydney Opera House, it presents a unique chance to enjoy acclaimed opera in one of the world's premier venues. 'Hänsel & Gretel at Sydney Opera House' unfolds the tale of two siblings navigating a mystical forest filled with magical creatures and thrilling adventures. The narrative is enriched by Humperdinck's lush orchestration, capturing the fairy tale's essence perfectly. Each performance is energized by a talented cast and musicians, who infuse every note and scene with passion and skill. This captivating blend of music, drama, and imagination is not to be missed. Whether you’re an opera aficionado or a curious newcomer, this production promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Sydney's cultural scene.

Nibble, nibble, little mouse, who’s that nibbling at my house? I’ll lure them in with sweets to eat, a child is a witch’s favorite treat! Deep in the dark woods, Hansel and Gretel are hungry and seeking home. Just when all seems lost, they encounter a spun‐sugar house and an eccentric woman, who’s not as sweet as she appears. Can the plucky siblings outsmart the wicked witch?

This whimsical production is a classic from acclaimed director Elijah Moshinsky, featuring a blend of humor and heart to balance the darker elements of the Grimms’ fairy tale. Familiar characters roam a surreal storybook world, enhanced by larger‐than‐life sets and costumes by Mark Thompson. The all‐star Australian cast includes Margaret Plummer and Stacey Alleaume as the clever kids, with Jane Ede delighting as the witch, alongside Helen Sherman and Andrew Moran as the youngsters’ parents.

Tahu Matheson conducts Humperdinck’s magical score, filled with German folk tunes and rich orchestration. Performed in English, Hansel & Gretel offers an enchanting introduction for newcomers and a nostalgic treat for opera fans.

Practical Information

Language:
Performed in English with English surtitles.

Cast / Production

HANSEL
Margaret Plummer
GRETEL
Stacey Alleaume
GERTRUDE
Helen Sherman
PETER
Andrew Moran
THE WITCH
Jane Ede
DEW FAIRY
Kathryn Williams
SANDMAN
Shikara Ringdahl

Opera Australia Orchestra

Customer Reviews

4.5 of 5

  • Scott B, USA

    Feb 2026

    Hansel and Gretel—as ridiculous a story as the Grimms could come up with! Dutifully told and shared to include the unfolding of the witch’s house, the dream sequence and the innocence of children lost in the woods. Opera? Meh. Glad it was in English WITH SUBTITLES! The set was unusual—heavily canted towards the orchestra pit (had concerns about strawberries or other goodies like Hansel’s yo‐yo hitting a violinist in the head! Seeing it at the Sydney Opera House was the crowning bucket list checkmark!

  • Wilfried M, Deutschland

    Feb 2026

    Vom Kauf des Tickets über die Informationen bis zur Veranstaltung selbst war alles klasse; auch in Sydney hat alles super geklappt.

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