New World School of the Arts Opera Theatre Ensemble presents Engelbert Humperdinck’s, Hansel and Gretel, a classic German fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm. Under the direction of NWSA voice and opera faculty, Dr. Megan Barrera, New World School of the Arts alumna, this interpretation of the popular classic opera, which follows the story of two siblings who are lost in the woods and encounter a witch’s gingerbread house, is infused with a fresh and imaginative approach by drawing inspiration from the whimsical worlds of Tim Burton and Dr. Seuss. The Opera Orchestra, conducted by faculty Dr. Huynjee Chung, creates a magical soundscape, with eerie undertones and playful melodies that enhance the fairy tale atmosphere. Though traditionally performed in German, the NWSA college students will be singing the production in English and there will be supertitles.
“Traditionally, Hansel and Gretel is known for its dark and eerie atmosphere, reflecting the Grimm Brothers’ original fairy tale,” explained Dr. Barrera, “however, I have infused the production with a magical and whimsical ambiance. In my interpretation the set design and costumes blend elements of Tim Burton’s gothic style with the vibrant and surreal aesthetic of Dr. Seuss. The woods become a fantastical landscape filled with twisted trees, whimsical creatures, and oversized candy creations, evoking a sense of wonder and enchantment.” The characters of the opera are brought to life through real storytelling that occurs on the proscenium of the stage; a mother reads to two of her children the Brothers Grimm fairy tale, and the children’s imaginations run wild on the stage setting up the opera in real time.
New World School of the Arts’ specialized opera/voice concentration is unique and rare among Bachelor of Music degree programs in the nation. The curriculum offers undergraduate music students the opportunity to perform mainstage leading roles in fully staged opera productions and opera scenes, accompanied by stellar piano collaborators and the music division’s opera orchestra. The conservatory style education at NWSA supports high level one-on-one instruction with experienced artist faculty members who cover bel-canto technique, lyric diction, acting, and so much more, for the enhancement of students’ vocal artistry and training to become successful classically trained singer/actors. Information about New World School of the Arts music division at 305-237-3622.
A Florida center of excellence in the visual and performing arts, New World School of the Arts is an educational partnership of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Miami Dade College, and University of Florida. NWSA provides a comprehensive program of artistic, creative, and academic development through a curriculum that reflects our community and the rich multicultural state of Florida. Through our partners NWSA confers the high school diploma, Associate of Arts degree, and Bachelor of Fine Arts and Bachelor of Music degrees in programs accredited by the National Association of Schools of Dance, Music, Theater and Art & Design. NWSA’s rigorous eight-year curriculum and conservatory-style teaching has empowered students in our community and our nation to become leaders in the arts for more than three decades.
Information about New World School of the Arts at 305-237-3135 or nwsa.mdc.edu.
HANSEL AND GRETEL
April 19; 7:30 PM
April 21; 2:00 PM
Miami-Dade College North Campus
William and Joan Lehman Theatre
11380 NW 27 Avenue, Miami FL 33167
General admission is $10 / Students and seniors $5