Duration
2 hrs 5 mins with 1 interval
Closing Date
Until February 28, 2026
Age limit
Suitable for all ages
Why Watch Hansel and Gretel?
- A classic Grimm fairytale springs to life through Humperdinck’s lush score and Elijah Moshinsky’s whimsical staging, offering a perfect mix of humour, suspense, and enchantment.
- Opera Australia brings together an acclaimed creative team including conductor Tahu Matheson, direction by the late Elijah Moshinsky and set and costume design by Mark Thompson.
- Larger-than-life sets and surreal storybook costumes transform the Joan Sutherland Theatre stage into a fantastical forest, a sugar-coated house, and a witch’s lair that spark wonder and chills.
- Returning to the Joan Sutherland Theater for a limited run, this beloved production remains a highlight of Opera Australia’s repertoire. Book your tickets to Hansel and Gretel in Sydney now!
Hansel and Gretel blends the dark charm of the Brothers Grimm tale with Engelbert Humperdinck’s romantic, folk-inspired score to create a uniquely enchanting opera experience. First staged by Opera Australia under Elijah Moshinsky’s direction, this revival brings back his signature surreal, storybook world, enhanced by Mark Thompson’s imaginative sets and costumes and Nigel Levings’ evocative lighting.
An accomplished Australian cast leads the production, with Margaret Plummer (Hansel) and Stacey Alleaume (Gretel) bringing warmth and wit to the siblings, while Jane Ede delighting as the wicked Witch. Tahu Matheson conducts the Opera Australia Orchestra, drawing out the work’s rich orchestrations and lyrical beauty. Performed in English, this is a charming entry point for families and newcomers, as well as a nostalgic treat for opera lovers.
Storyline
Deep in the woods, siblings Hansel and Gretel wander far from home in search of food. As night falls, their hunger and fear grow, until a house made of sweets appears, along with a seemingly kind old woman. But this fairytale quickly turns dangerous when the siblings discover her true intentions. What follows is a test of courage and cleverness in a world where danger hides behind sugar-coated walls. Book your Hansel and Gretel Sydney tickets to find out if they can outwit the witch.
Show timings
Show timings for Hansel and Gretel may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Cast & Crew
Leading roles: Margaret Plummer as Hansel, Stacey Alleaume as Gretel, Helen Sherman as Gertrude, Andrew Moran as Peter, Jane Ede as The Witch, Kathryn Williams as Dew Fairy and Shikara Ringdahl as Sandman.
Conductor: Tahu Matheson
Director: Elijah Moshinsky
Set & costume designer: Mark Thompson
Lighting designer: Nigel Levings
Revival director: Claudia Osborne
Age Suitability
This show is suitable for all ages.
Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!
Most theaters are air-conditioned year-round, so it can get a bit chilly. Bring a light jacket just in case.
Joan Sutherland Theatre
The Joan Sutherland Theatre is a jewel of the Sydney Opera House, named after Australia’s legendary soprano. Known for its sweeping interiors and world-class acoustics, it hosts major opera, ballet, and musical productions. The theatre’s modern design and intimate atmosphere make it a favorite for both performers and audiences. Past highlights include performances by Opera Australia and international stars.
The Joan Sutherland Theatre seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Getting There
- Address: Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
- By train:
The nearest train stations are Martin Place and St James, as Circular Quay station closes after 3pm on New Year’s Eve.
- By bus:
Buses to Circular Quay (until 3pm); after 3pm, buses are rerouted due to road closures.
Facilities & Accessibility
Amenities: Toilets, Dining outlets, Cloak room, Free parking
Accessibility: Elevator access, Wheelchair accessible, Service animals allowed
Additional Information
- Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
- Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
- Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show.
Tickets Redemption
You will receive an email with your Hansel and Gretel voucher. No need to print. Please carry a valid Photo Id for identification.
Cancellation & Refunds
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Frequently asked questions
The cost of the tickets starts from AU$98.75 and will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
The opera does not have a strict age limit. It is suitable for all ages.
The show is playing at the Joan Sutherland Theater inside the Sydney Opera House.
The opera follows siblings Hansel and Gretel, who wander into the forest and encounter a magical gingerbread house, and a witch who isn’t as sweet as she seems.
The running time is 2 hours and 5 minutes with one intermission.
The main stars of the opera are Margaret Plummer as Hansel, Stacey Alleaume as Gretel, Helen Sherman as Gertrude, Andrew Moran as Peter, Jane Ede as The Witch, Kathryn Williams as Dew Fairy and Shikara Ringdahl as Sandman.
The score was composed by Engelbert Humperdinck. It’s famous for weaving German folk tunes into a lush romantic orchestration.
Yes. English surtitles are displayed throughout, even though the performance is in English, ensuring all lyrics are clear to the audience.
