Hansel and Gretel: performance conventions

Story Origin and Narrative Setting

“Hansel and Gretel” is a folk tale originally from Germany; remember to incorporate elements of Germanic folklore into your interpretation of the story.
The story itself is a two-acter, with each act taking place in different settings; a poverty-stricken home and a candy-thatched forest hut. Each location should be distinctly represented in the performance.

Central characters include Hansel, Gretel, the stepmother and the witch. Hansel and Gretel are children lost in a forest and craving for food, try to bring a sense of innocence, vulnerability and naivety in their portrayal. The stepmother is generally portrayed as cruel, and the witch, known for her cunning nature, is sinister yet beguiling to trap the children.
Traditional conventions dictate that the narrative of “Hansel and Gretel” is driven by dialogues mainly between the siblings, the stepmother and the witch. Concentrate on employing body language and emotive expressions to convey the story accurately.

The theme of abandonment surfaces considerably throughout the play. Ensure to convey the fear and despair associated with it in performance.
The iconic gingerbread house should be a central feature of the performance design. Its sweetness is a stark contrast to the witch’s evil intentions. This dichotomy should translate meaningfully onto the stage.

Fairy tale tropes such as mystical creatures, entrancing forests, and magic should be woven into your performance.
The climax builds up to a point when Gretel outsmarts the witch and rescues Hansel. This moment of victory and Hansel and Gretel’s cleverness should be emphasized in the performance.

Keep in mind the moral elements intrinsic to the tale. Amid the fright and hardship, there are strong themes of love, courage, and resourcefulness that should resonate through the performance.
Lastly, audience interaction is essential for fairy tales. Break the fourth wall occasionally to keep your viewers engaged.