Shakespeare’s Globe has once again proven its versatility and charm with this year’s revival of Hansel and Gretel. Adapted by Poet Laureate Simon Armitage and directed by Nick Bagnall, this take on the Brothers Grimm classic is a whimsical blend of humour, music, and enchantment, making it the perfect Christmas family show.
Scenography and Setting
Performed at the iconic Shakespeare’s Globe, the production embraces simplicity with its set design, demonstrating how creativity can shine even on a modest budget. The stage’s minimalism allows the storytelling to take centre stage, enhanced by evocative lighting and clever stage tricks – watch out for the witch’s dramatic fate in the cauldron! The setting itself, with its open-air design and Elizabethan charm, adds an unparalleled magic to the experience. Even last night’s drizzle couldn’t dampen spirits; the audience remained captivated, proving that only in London can people brave the rain so passionately for the love of art and culture.
Admittedly, I was seated comfortably in the covered area, reminiscing about my earlier days as a young professional when I’d stand in the pit for £5 tickets, enduring hours of rain just to experience the magic of performances like Antony and Cleopatra. Back then, Cleopatra was portrayed by Oscar-winning Mark Rylance who was also the Globe’s Artistic Director at the time (1998-2005). This time, from my dry perch, I marvelled at how Hansel and Gretel embraced the same tradition of accessible yet excellent theatre.
A Tale Reimagined
The Brothers Grimm originally penned Hansel and Gretel in 1812 as a chilling cautionary tale. While the darker undertones of the story remain, Armitage’s adaptation sugar coats the narrative with humour and song, making it less terrifying and more family-friendly. The enduring themes of resilience and familial love resonate, but this version tempers the grim elements with warmth and wit, offering a comforting balance for younger audiences.
Cast and Performances
The young cast brings fresh energy to the stage. Yasemin Özdemir as Gretel and Ned Costello as Hansel lead with charm and sincerity, delivering standout performances that balance vulnerability and determination. Beverly Rudd steals scenes as both the hapless Mum and the sinister Witch, her comedic timing and physicality earning delighted laughs and gasps. Jenni Maitland’s Narrator ties the tale together with wit and a knowing wink, while Harry Hepple as the bumbling Dad adds a touch of slapstick fun.
For many cast members, this production marks a major milestone in their careers, yet their performances suggest seasoned professionals. The new musical numbers, co-composed by Magnus Mehta and Patrick Pearson, are catchy and engaging, though perhaps not as memorable as one might hope. Nevertheless, they inject a festive, toe-tapping energy into the show.
The Globe’s Legacy and a Modern Christmas Tradition
Shakespeare’s Globe, reconstructed near the site of the original 1599 theatre, is a testament to London’s enduring love of drama. Over 400 years ago, audiences would have gathered in much the same way to watch Shakespearean tales unfold. Today, the Globe continues to innovate, offering a mix of traditional and contemporary productions.
Hansel and Gretel at the Globe manages to bridge centuries of storytelling tradition, delivering a festive experience that appeals to audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a regular visitor or a newcomer to this iconic venue, this show will leave you inspired and brimming with holiday cheer.
So, grab your tickets, bundle up against the winter chill, and prepare for a delightful evening of theatre. And remember, rain or shine, there’s no place like London for enduring performances – and no theatre quite like Shakespeare’s Globe.