André Rieu with the orchestra and choir, recreated Engelbert Humperdinck’s fairy tale Hänsel und Gretel in the mystical atmosphere of Efteling Park. With the sweet voices of Carmen Monarcha (Hänsel) and Carla Maffioletti (Gretel), the work is not only a colorful musical adventure but also a symphony of emotions, bringing dreamy and magical moments that make the audience feel like they are lost in a fairy tale world full of surprises.
“Hänsel und Gretel” – A Musical Adventure in Efteling with André Rieu: A magical journey with classical music
On an autumn evening in 2007, Efteling, the famous mystical park in the Netherlands, became the stage for one of the most spectacular musical performances the public has ever witnessed. Led by maestro André Rieu, his orchestra and choir created a magical musical space, recreating one of the most famous operas of the 19th century – Hänsel und Gretel (Hänsel and Gretel) by Engelbert Humperdinck.
The work, composed in 1891, is one of the outstanding operas of German Romantic music, standing out for its perfect combination of folk music and classical operatic elements. The story of two orphaned brothers, Hänsel and Gretel, lost in the woods and confronted by an evil witch, is not only a fascinating fairy tale but also a platform for Humperdinck to demonstrate his great talent in constructing emotional arias, mysterious overtures and operatic climaxes.
In this performance, the roles of the two main characters – Hänsel and Gretel – are taken on by two talented Brazilian singers: Carmen Monarcha (Hänsel) and Carla Maffioletti (Gretel). Both artists express the innocence, freshness but no less depth in each verse, giving the audience a colorful and emotional picture. Carmen Monarcha, with her powerful and soulful mezzo-soprano, brought out the innocence of Hänsel, while Carla Maffioletti, with her sparkling soprano, brought out Gretel’s innocence and desire to win.
André Rieu’s orchestra and chorus were integral to the success of the performance. The blend of classical and folk sounds and the mystical atmosphere of Efteling enhanced the work’s gentle melodies, keeping the audience glued to the stage. Like a mythological play, Humperdinck’s music not only tells the story but also makes the audience feel the joy, fear, and hope of the two children on their adventurous journey.
