Hänsel and Gretel is a delightful fairy opera in three acts, composed by Engelbert Humperdinck with a libretto by Adelheid Wette. Let me share some details about this enchanting work:

1. Background:
   • Adelheid Wette, the sister of Engelbert Humperdinck, wrote the lyrics for some children’s songs. She then requested her brother to compose music for these lyrics.
   • The opera is based on the well-known German fairy tale collected by the Brothers Grimm.
2. Plot Summary:
   • The story revolves around two siblings, Hänsel (a boy) and Gretel (a girl), who live in a poor household with their parents.
   • The family struggles to make ends meet, and the children often go hungry.
   • One day, their mother sends them into the forest to pick strawberries. However, they get lost and encounter magical and sometimes eerie creatures.
   • They stumble upon a gingerbread house owned by a wicked witch who lures children with her sweet treats.
   • The opera follows their adventures, including their encounter with the witch and their eventual escape.
3. Musical Highlights:
   • The opera features beautiful melodies, charming folk tunes, and lush orchestration.
   • Notable musical moments include the “Evening Prayer” duet, where Hänsel and Gretel pray before falling asleep, and the lively “Witch’s Ride.”
4. Themes:
   • Childhood innocence: Hänsel and Gretel’s journey through the forest represents the transition from childhood to maturity.
   • Family bonds: The siblings’ love for each other and their determination to survive together are central themes.
   • Magic and wonder: The forest is filled with magical creatures, and the gingerbread house adds an element of fantasy.
5. Availability:
   • You can read the libretto for free on Project Gutenberg1.
   • Additionally, there is a LibriVox recording available for listening in English2.

Hänsel and Gretel remains a beloved opera, captivating audiences with its whimsical tale and memorable music. 🌲🍭🎶