Choreographers: Harris Beattie and George Liang
Composer: Colin Scott
Northern Ballet has a long-standing reputation for creating accessible ballet experiences for children, and their latest touring production, Hansel and Gretel, is their latest offering. Based on the Brothers Grimm’s 1812 fairytale, this version, choreographed by Harris Beattie and George Liang, offers a refreshing and contemporary twist – far removed from the traditional, sinister tale of a gingerbread house and a child-eating witch.
The story opens in a monochrome city apartment, where the siblings squabble over a games console. Frustrated, their father takes them for a walk in the woods where the children embark on a journey of discovery, meeting a series of whimsical characters who help them reconnect with nature and the outdoors.
Among these are a group of birdwatchers, delightfully brought to life through puppetry and the enchanting sounds of a flute, played beautifully by Sarah Bull. The performance is rich in visual and auditory storytelling, thanks in part to the clever and emotive score composed by Colin Scott. The small but dynamic ensemble, led by Ewan Gilford, remain onstage throughout, giving children the unique opportunity to see the instruments and understand how music can shape the mood of a scene.
The traditional witch is replaced by a “plastic bottle monster”, a symbolic figure perhaps representing modern society’s neglect of nature. As the children remove the plastic, the monster becomes less frightening and ultimately freed, mirroring their own transformation.
The cast performs with energy and warmth, capturing a spirit of childlike adventure that keeps young audiences engaged. Ali Allen’s set design is both simple and highly effective – easily transforming from a stark urban apartment to a lush, magical forest. In a touching final moment, the set “blooms,” bringing vivid colour back into the children’s world.
While this adaptation departs significantly from the original Grimm tale, it offers a meaningful message that many families will find relatable. In a world that often feels grey and disconnected from nature, Hansel and Gretel gently reminds us all of the magic that can be found when we step outside and reconnect with nature.
Reviewed on 17th May 2025
