It is the well-known story of the two poor broom-maker children who have lost their way in the forest and fall into the clutches of the wicked witch Rosina Leckermaul. The music also rings in the ear, with composer Engelbert Humperdinck embedding folksy, catchy melodies in the richness of a late-Romantic orchestral score.
"Hansel and Gretel" belongs on pre-Christmas opera schedules like gingerbread to a crunchy house. As irresistible as the sweet pastry is Andreas Meyer-Hanno's cult production, which after its scenic makeover a few years ago is once again spreading festive splendor this season.