Pop-Up Opera return this autumn with Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel, but the company give one of the most popular operatic fairy tales a magical twist.

Humperdinck’s dark and atmospheric opera will make its way to Harpenden Public Halls on Saturday, November 4.

Sung in German (with Pop-Up Opera’s signature ‘silent movie’ captions in English), the wonderful combination of music and drama brings the exciting relationships between characters to life.

Brother and sister Hansel & Gretel are drawn into the idyllic yet dangerous world of the forest, where they encounter the Sandman, the Dew Fairy and, most frightening of all, the Witch.

In the dizzying excitement of the Witch’s Ride and the serene beauty of the children’s evening prayer, Humperdinck’s music magically evokes the contrasting worlds of the story.

Director James Hurley comments: “Hansel and Gretel is the perfect fairy tale opera experience, packed full of humour, suspense, and danger.

“It offers some unique theatrical challenges - how to create an enchanted forest, build a gingerbread house, or burn a witch!

“This production will conjure up an ingenious, fully-integrated scenic world, which stays true to Pop-Up’s immersive charm.”

Harpenden Public Halls, Southdown Road, Harpenden, AL5 1TE, Saturday, November 4, 7.30pm. Details: 01582 767525