Composer Engelbert Humperdinck transformed Grimm’s beloved fairy tale `Hänsel und Gretel´ into opera entertainment for everyone - an opera which successfully bridges the generation gap. Hailed by Richard Strauss as `a masterpiece of the highest quality´, Humperdinck´s debut opera Hänsel und Gretel has remained a firm favourite since its 1893 première. Frequently staged in opera houses during the run up to the Christmas season, this DVD is a tumultuous and joyful production for children and adults. Director Katharina Thalbach cheerfully evokes a magic world of woodland sprites and candy dreams and creates an enchanting fantasy world. This production is filled with high spirits, fairytale fantasy and genial comedy. The Semperoper is one of the most impressive and important Opera Houses around the Globe. The Sächsische Staatskapelle Dresden is one of the oldest orchestras in the world and is renowned for its special, well-blended sound.Technical information Directed for Stage by Katharina Thalbach / Stage Designer and Costumes Ezio Toffolutti / Picture Format NTSC • 169 anamorphic / Sound Formats PCM Stereo • Dolby Digital 5.1 • DTS 5.1 / Region Code 0 / Subtitles English, German, French, Spanish / Booklet Notes English, German, French / Running Time 108 mins