Beloved 'Hansel and Gretel' charms again
|
|
Gretel (Katherine Kaplan) and Hansel (L.R. Davidson) sleep in the forest, guarded by dancing angels, in the Opera Theatre of Weston production of "Hansel and Gretel." Jim Lowe/Times Argus |
Toolbox
By Jim Lowe Times Argus Staff - Published: January 9, 2009
RUTLAND – Christmastime performances of "Hansel and Gretel," Engelbert Humperdinck's classic family opera, were once a holiday staple of the western world, but more commercial celebrations seem to have obscured the tradition. Opera Theatre of Weston's delightful production, which opened Sunday at the Paramount Theatre, proved a joyful reminder of why this opera has remained a favorite since its premiere in 1893 – and the multitude of young children in attendance remained quietly riveted throughout the two-hour performance.
"Hansel and Gretel" will be performed again this weekend, at 2 p.m., on Saturday and Sunday, at the Weston Playhouse.
Based on the Brothers Grimm fairy tale, "Hansel and Gretel" is the familiar story of two youngsters who get lost in the woods, only to discover a wonderful gingerbread house adorned with frosting trim and candy decorations. But, it's a trap set by the wicked witch, Rosina Daintymouth, to lure children, whom she bakes in her large oven to feed herself. Of course, Hansel and Gretel save themselves as well as the other children that the witch has captured. And everyone lives happily ever after.
What makes this tale convincing is Humperdinck's brilliant score. Filled with memorable melodies – many of which remain recognizable to most adults – give it a light feel, but the work is actually inspired by Richard Wagner. In fact, Humperdinck studied with Wagner, assisting him at the premiere of "Parsifal." Humperdinck's score might be called "Wagner-lite" or "Wagner in a major key," and is quite serious music. (Composer Richard Strauss insisted on conducting the premiere.)
Despite its substantial pedigree, "Hansel and Gretel" is light, airy and thoroughly entertaining – with some beautifully touching moments.
Opera Theatre of Weston's production is a professional one, well-sung and true to the original. The staging is simple but effective. Produced by Artistic Directors Lise Messier and Nan Nall, it was brilliantly colorful.
Soprano Katherine (Gartner) Kaplan, an OTW veteran, sang brilliantly as Gretel, while mezzo Lora Rachel (L.R.) Davidson, though a little feminine for a boy, sang beautifully as well. Vocally the other stellar singing was by mezzo-soprano Lindsay Dyett as the Sandman.
That's not to say the others didn't sing well. Heather Davis as the mother and Benjamin Bloomfield as the father both sang beautifully and were very human as parents. Tenor Pablo Bustos (it's usually sung by a mezzo) was a riot as the witch, but wasn't particularly scary. Marietta Formanek, as the Dew Fairy, didn't have a lot of presence, but sang well.
A delight throughout were the dancers. Eliza Pennel as Safronia the cat, who was on stage most of the time, was deft and charming, as were the three young dancers who guarded Hansel and Gretel during the night – Erika Anderson, Lauren Fountain and Shenandoah Lucero-Keniston. The convincing stage direction and choreography was by Ashley Hensel-Browning, another OTW regular.
Karen Keltner, resident conductor of the San Diego Opera, conducted the tiny instrumental ensemble (in a much reduced adaptation) sensitively and effectively. Violinist Jesse Irons, an East Montpelier native now living in Boston, headed a string quartet, augmented by winds and percussion.
Staging by P.J. Tumielewicz was simple – for portability – but attractive. Colorful costumes were by Liz Fitzpatrick and Melissa Adams. Lighting by David Lane was effective throughout, and beautifully dramatic during the night and witch's scenes.
Opera Theatre of Weston's "Hansel and Gretel" is a joy for just about all ages (my guest was 6).