Description

Join us as the Bower Center for the Arts presents the James Tyler Young Artist Program and their traveling production of Hansel and Gretel.  This classic story is based on the well-loved Brothers Grimm fairy tale, and the music written by German composer Engelbert Humperdinck. 

The 40-minute performance begins at 12:00pm, with family-friendly art activities and light refreshments to follow. Appropriate for all ages, but especially Pre-K through 5th grade. 

The Story: 

Once upon a time… 

In a household living in poverty, siblings Hansel and Gretel are home alone. Hungry and bored, they sing and dance to lift their spirits, but are discovered by their mother, who is furious that they haven’t completed their chores. She spills what was to have been their supper and sends the children into the enchanted forest to forage for something else to eat. 

And so the adventure begins… 

In the forest, Hansel and Gretel encounter the magical Sandman, who sends them to sleep, and the mystical Dew Fairy who awakens them. They happen upon a mysterious, edible and delicious house which, it turns out, is the home of a terrifying, child-eating Witch! Will Hansel and Gretel escape with their lives, or will they become dinner for the horrid old crone? 

About Opera on the James: 

Opera on the James, celebrating its 20th Season, is an OPERA AMERICA Level Four Professional Company in Lynchburg, Virginia Opera, presenting work that enriches, inspires and challenges the cultural landscape of Virginia with mainstage, outreach and education performances and programming. Opera on the James is a 501c3 public charity. Admission to this performance is FREE, but advance registration is appreciated for headcount purposes! Guests are welcome to attend without advance registration.

Opera on the James’ nationally recognized Tyler Young Artist Program is made up of singers chosen from hundreds of applicants for their high level of vocal, musical and theatrical skills. They are ambassadors for opera as an art form for everyone.