Following the success of our fairytale trilogy – Rapunzel, Rumpelstiltskin and Snow White – we return with a fresh take on the classic tale for audiences aged 5+.
The North East audience will be the first to see the production before it goes on tour, with its premiere taking place at Northern Stage in Newcastle from 29 October–1 November 2026.
The production has been created and rehearsed in our studio at the John Marley Centre in West Newcastle, making the North East an important part of its journey from the very beginning. As a company rooted in the region for more than 30 years, it matters to us that local audiences have the first opportunity to see our new work before we share it with audiences around the country.
You might know the story. But you definitely don’t know it like this.
Step into a fairytale world of sugar-glass houses, an all-you-can-eat merry-go-round, a witch who keeps regenerating and two giant chickens. There are spectacular costumes, imaginative dance and a feast of knitted and crocheted treats, created with the help of balletLORENT’s knitting group.
And there’s a twist in the tale. Former Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy has written a brand-new ending for the production, which might not be quite what you expect.
Featuring nine professional dancers alongside a young community cast, Hansel & Gretel and the Witch brings together storytelling, striking visuals and plenty of theatrical surprises.
The production is narrated by acclaimed actress Gina McKee, with an original score by Murray Gold. Set designer Mayou Trikerioti, lighting designer Malcolm Rippeth and costume designer Nazir Mazhar have created a richly imagined world, under the direction and choreography of Liv Lorent.
Together, the creative team has created a dark and sweet new take on the story – full of courage, imagination and the enduring appeal of fairytales.
The Newcastle performances are the beginning of the production’s journey, before Hansel & Gretel and the Witch tours nationally in spring 2027.
Hansel & Gretel and the Witch
Thursday 29 October, 6pm
Friday 30 October, 1.30pm & 7pm
Saturday 31 October, 1.30pm
Sunday 1 November, 1.30pm
Northern Stage, Newcastle
Ages 5+
Tickets from £12
Be among the first to see Hansel & Gretel and the Witchbefore it tours in Spring 2027.
Photo: Luke Waddington. Dancers: Berta Admetlla, Montaine Ponceau and Gavin Coward.
