The Capitol Theatre in Port Hope has announced the cast and creative team for the world premiere of Hansel and Gretel – the Sticky and Sweet Panto, written and directed by artistic director Rob Kempson.
The holiday production runs Nov. 21 to Dec. 28 with “naughty” performances recommended for ages 16 and up and “nice” performances suitable for audiences eight and older. Tickets range from $22 to $48, with discounts for children, youth, groups and arts workers.
The panto follows the classic tale of siblings lost in the forest who encounter a witch living in a gingerbread house. Audiences can expect familiar songs, hilarious characters and a sugar-filled story. Hansel and Gretel will be played by Amir Haidar and Michelle Yu, with Jacob MacInnis as the Witch. The ensemble features Kory Fulton, Arinea Hermans, Jeremy Lapalme, Yunike Soedarmasto, Nathanael Judah and musician Justin Han.
Kempson says the panto is one of the community’s most anticipated holiday events and he is delighted to share his playful take on the story. The creative team includes choreographer Genny Sermonia, music director Scott Pietrangelo, set designer Anna Treusch, costume designer Joyce Padua, lighting designer Michelle Ramsay and sound designer Christie Heriot.
Special dates include a pay-what-you-can preview Nov. 21, opening night Nov. 22 at 7:30 p.m., and Indigenous community night Dec. 1. The Capitol Theatre offers accessible parking, seating and hearing assistance devices.
For performance details and tickets, visit capitoltheatre.com or call 905-885-1071.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
