THE BROTHERS GRIMM’S FAIRY TALE RETOLD BY POET LAUREATE SIMON ARMITAGE AT THE GLOBE

By Emma Carney | Bunny Pudding · Digital Coven · @bunnyscopes ⭐⭐⭐ | Press Invite

I never turn down the opportunity to watch a show at The Globe, which is my favourite theatre. If you ever get a chance, dear reader, go! My latest adventure at this historical venue was to see their Children’s Christmas production of Hansel and Gretel.

Based on The Brothers Grimm’s fairy tale, this new retelling by Poet Laureate Simon Armitage relocates us to a war-torn village where Hansel and Gretel’s parents make the questionable decision to send their children away from the impoverished chaos that war brings. From there, the story follows the familiar path we all know: the trail of bread and stones to guide them back home, their encounter with a house of sweet treats (understandably tempting), and their capture by a sweet but slightly menacing witch in the woods.

What sets this play apart is its delightful use of music. The songs, co-composed by Magnus Mehta and Patrick Pearson, are both catchy and clever. Particular standouts were the Witch’s introduction and the Foxes’ sugar anthem—both of which, in my opinion, are worthy of a spot in the charts. These numbers brought energy and whimsy to the story, further amplified by the brilliant staging choice to have the musicians on stage as part of the action. Watching them weave in and out of the performance added a unique and engaging layer to the storytelling.

Nick Bagnall’s direction was another triumph, perfectly tailored to its young audience. Trust me, the 5+ crowd is the toughest to impress, yet the performance had them (and the adults) completely captivated. The costumes, designed by Rae Smith and William Fricker, deserve special mention, particularly the Witch’s look—a seemingly homely old lady with a flair for dance moves when the moment called for it. Goals. 

The cast was uniformly excellent, with Beverly Rudd stealing the show in her dual roles as Mum and the Witch. Her comedic timing and ability to balance humour with a touch of menace were spot-on. Yasemin Özdemir and Ned Costello, as Gretel and Hansel, brought warmth and charm to their roles, making the siblings’ journey both relatable and engaging. The ensemble, led by performers like Jamie-Rose Monk and Mason Clarke-Whale, added bursts of energy and humour throughout.

The staging itself was a visual treat, transforming The Globe’s iconic space into a magical playground. The creative designs of the props and clever use of space brought the woods, the Witch’s house (Cardboard box), and the village (a group of tents) to life using minimal staging – like a make believe game being created by children in the garden. It’s a testament to The Globe’s ability to make every inch of its stage and surroundings part of the experience.

Comedy was at the heart of this production, and the physical humour delighted children and adults alike. From slapstick moments to cheeky modern twists, the show struck the perfect balance between festive fun and meaningful storytelling. Whilst the ending felt a wee bit rushed, I don’t think the audience minded as long as all’s well, that ends well. 

Overall, Hansel and Gretel was a charming and inventive reimagining of a classic tale. With memorable songs, striking visuals, and humour aplenty, it’s the perfect festive treat for children and the young at heart. Hansel and Gretel runs until 5 January at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

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⭐⭐⭐ A great way to spend the afternoon for the family full of fun and festive frolics for all ages. 

Photo Credit: Ellie Kurttz

HANSEL AND GRETEL PRODUCTION CREDITS

Cast

• Mason Clarke-Whale – Ensemble
• Ned Costello – Hansel
• Lizzie Grace – Ensemble / Cover
• Aaron McCallum Hepple – Ensemble / Cover
• Harry Hepple – Dad / Swanny
• Jenni Maitland – Narrator
• Jamie-Rose Monk – Ensemble
• Yasemin Özdemir – Gretel
• Beverly Rudd – Mum / Witch
• Marc Zayat – Ensemble

Creative Team

• Director – Nick Bagnall
• Writer – Simon Armitage
• Designer – Rae Smith
• Co-Designer – William Fricker
• Associate Director – Cory Hippolyte
• Movement Director – Chi-San Howard
• Voice Coach – Liz Flint

Music Team

• Co-Composer / Orchestrator / Musical Director (Percussion) – Magnus Mehta
• Co-Composer / Songwriter – Patrick Pearson
• Saxophone / Clarinet – Tamar Osborn
• Trumpet – Yelfris Valdés
• Tuba – Hanna Mbuya