The DePaul University School of Music’s Opera Theatre, under the direction of Harry Silverstein, presents Engelbert Humperdinck’s “Hansel and Gretel” March 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m. and March 15 at 2 p.m. at DePaul’s Merle Reskin Theatre, 60 E. Balbo Ave., Chicago.

“Our new production of ‘Hansel and Gretel’ is wildly colorful and exciting,” Silverstein said. “The opera will be fun and familiar to younger audiences as well as people who have not been to the opera for years – if ever.”  “Hansel and Gretel” is recommended for audiences ages 8 to adult.

Humperdinck composed the fairy tale opera with his sister and based it on the story by the Brothers Grimm. Originally written for Humperdinck’s own family’s entertainment, “Hansel and Gretel” premiered in Weimar, Germany, in December 1893. Humperdinck was a devoted fan and follower of composer Richard Wagner, and the grand size of the opera is a testament to his attempt to follow his inspiration. The opera is composed with powerful drama and sublime beauty.  

DePaul Opera Theatre’s production will be sung in English by DePaul School of Music voice students, with a full student orchestra conducted by Eric Weimer. Weimer, who serves as assistant conductor at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, has coached and prepared more than 80 opera productions, specializing in the Italian and German repertoires. This is his second time as musical director for DePaul Opera Theatre. “Maestro Weimar is an expert on German repertory and will bring a very special artistry to the production,” Silverstein said.

This production has been designed specifically for DePaul Opera Theatre by Chicago-area, award-winning professional designers.  The fresh look of the broom-maker’s cottage in the Black Forest and the exotic candy castle of the Gingerbread Witch enhance the whimsical staging and lavish costumes.

Tickets are now available at the Merle Reskin Theatre box office, or by calling 312-922-1999.  Tickets range from $5 to $25 with discounts available for students and seniors.  For more information about the DePaul School of Music, please visit music.depaul.edu or call 773-325-7260.

DePaul University School of Music, founded in 1912, is dedicated to excellence in music performance and teaching. The school offers high-caliber, challenging programs in performance, composition, music education, jazz studies, performing arts management and sound recording technology. The more than 110 faculty members at the School of Music bring a wealth of knowledge and professional music experience to their teaching.  Faculty members perform in many of Chicago’s renowned music organizations, including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Chicago Chamber Musicians and Grant Park Symphony Orchestra.