Free Community Performances of Hansel & Gretel

Opera Orlando presents FREE performances of Engelbert Humperdinck’s Hansel & Gretel this Saturday, November 8 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Following a tour of seven local elementary schools, Opera Orlando Studio Artists bring this delightful and family-friendly production, sung in English, to the Grand Avenue Neighborhood Center. This production is directed by Stetson University director of opera Olivia Yokers, making her Company debut, and music directed by the Opera’s chorus master and resident pianist Nathan Cicero.

“It is always fun bringing opera to the schools, and to see second and third graders get excited about the music and singing, as well as truly enjoying and engaging with this fun and whimsical production of Hansel & Gretel, has been so heartwarming,” shares Opera Orlando education director Sarah Purser. “We hope a lot of families will take advantage of these free performances at the Grand Avenue Neighborhood Center. It is the perfect weekend outing for all ages!”

Hansel & Gretel features soprano Alexandra Kzeski as Gretel, mezzo-soprano Ruoxi Bian as Hansel, mezzo-soprano and education director Sarah Purser as the Witch, and baritone Logan Tarwater as the Father. This reimagining of the Grimm classic is equal parts delightful and spooky, promising audiences a magical mix of humor, heart, and beautiful music. Thanks to partnerships with Orange County Public Schools, The School District of Osceola County, United Arts of Central Florida, and AdventHealth, Opera Orlando is proud to present this enchanting production to families throughout Central Florida free of charge. After this Saturday’s public performances, Opera Orlando will continue touring the production to local schools, with a special performance at AdventHealth for Children on Monday.

Those interested in attending this Saturday may reserve seats for either the 11 a.m. or 2 p.m. performance by emailing Info@OperaOrlando.org. Youth groups and community groups are strongly encouraged to attend.