Photo Caption: Central College actors rehearse Hansel and Gretel opera, to be performed Feb. 13-16.

Pella, IA (02/04/2025) — Central College returns to the stage with a production of the opera "Hansel and Gretel" this Valentine's Day weekend. This special adaptation has been shortened to make it more suitable and accessible to younger audiences. Performances will take place at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13, Friday, Feb. 14, and Saturday, Feb. 15; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16, in Douwstra Auditorium, on Central's campus.

"The Central students will sing and play in the pit orchestra alongside faculty, staff and alumni for a memorable production of a classic fairy tale," says Sean Stephenson, assistant professor of music and artistic/music director for the show. "As a classically trained opera singer, I'm thrilled to guide our students through this production. It's amazing to watch our students take this on, growing with every rehearsal and overcoming its challenges. Their enthusiasm and dedication shows in every rehearsal, and they should be incredibly proud of all they have accomplished."

"Hansel and Gretel" tells the classic tale of a brother and sister who wander into the woods, only to find themselves in the clutches of a witch who likes to turn children into gingerbread. The opera's themes delve into hunger and its profound effects, with characters navigating struggles that are timeless and relatable.

"The opera includes a short ballet, a children's choir and a live orchestra," Stephenson adds. "Supertitles will be displayed to enhance accessibility and understanding, allowing the audience to fully engage in the performance."

Traditionally, fairy tales like "Hansel and Gretel" entertain while offering moral lessons, often with a touch of fright to encourage good behavior. This version explores hunger as a central theme: Hansel and Gretel begin by lamenting their lack of food, while their mother's frustration stems from her own hunger. The Witch, in turn, symbolizes gluttony. These elements highlight the timeless, universal issue of hunger, fostering a deeper connection between the audience and the characters.

Central last staged "Hansel and Gretel" in the 1980s. Photographs from that production will be displayed in the Douwstra Auditorium lobby during the performances.

Tickets are available at central.universitytickets.com/.

Central College of Pella, Iowa, is a private college known for its active student body, academic rigor and athletics success. Our students learn collaboratively with supportive educators who share a commitment to intellectual engagement, personal growth, career readiness and civic involvement. Founded in 1853 and shaped by its Christian heritage, the college of 1,100 students participates in NCAA Division III athletics and is a member of the American Rivers Conference. Central is an active part of the Greater Des Moines region and just minutes from Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake.