Kelsey Theater, located at Mercer County College, opens its season with Twenty Minutes to Curtain Productions of a new family musical, “Hansel and Gretel,” from Friday, September 3, to Sunday, September 19. Arthur Gerold, a costume designer and producer of the show presents an original adaptation of the classic fairytale with book, music, and lyrics by Marilyn Gerold.
The show is a new take on the Grimm’s fairytale — not the usual story of two children lost in the forest. “There are upbeat, catchy songs and themes of contemporary family life that make it is ideal entertainment for children and parents alike,” says Claudia Perry, the director of the show.
“There are numerous characters who befriend Hansel and Gretel — a Bear, a Fallen Leaf, a Bump on the Log; and an enchanted Platter, Spoon, Pot, and Kettle,” says Perry. “All are sympathetic to the children’s plight when they are captured by the witch who lives in the sumptuous gingerbread house.”
In a newly-commissioned ballet written specifically for this show, there are Dancing Fireflies who tuck the children in for the night with a silken spider web. The cast features Marissa Marciano of Plainsboro as Gretel, and Eric Simon of West Windsor as Pot, Spider, andBump. — Lynn Miller
Hansel & Gretel, Kelsey Theater, Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor. Opening night is Friday, September 3, 7:30 p.m. $16. 609-570-3333. www.kelseytheatre.net.
