Stetson’s School of Music will present Engelbert Humperdinck’s opera “Hansel and Gretel” in a fully staged production created in collaboration with Opera Orlando. Performances will take place at 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 20, and 3 p.m. Sunday, March 22, at DeLand High School Auditorium.

Opera Orlando collaborates with Stetson on multiple fronts, including the design and construction of sets and props for this production. The organizations also work together through Opera Orlando’s Apprentice Artist Program, which provides Stetson voice majors with professional, onstage experience in the opera industry while earning academic credit.

“This partnership helps our students understand what it means to work at a professional level, not just vocally, but in the discipline, collaboration and artistry that opera demands,” said Washington Garcia, DMA, dean of the School of Music at Stetson University. “When students rehearse and perform in a production shaped by professional partners, it elevates the entire experience and strengthens the quality audiences see on stage.”

“Stetson is preparing young artists with the musical training and performance experience they need to thrive, and our partnership allows students to grow in an environment that mirrors the professional world,” said Gabriel Preisser, general director and CEO of Opera Orlando. “We’re proud to collaborate with a program that is investing in students in meaningful, practical ways – on stage and behind the scenes.”

As part of that broader collaboration, two Stetson students in the cast, soprano Alyssa Pimentel and tenor Evan Martinez, are also members of Opera Orlando’s 2025-26 Apprentice Artists Program.

Directed by Olivia Yokers, DMA, and conducted by Anthony Hose, “Hansel and Gretel” will feature Kristie Born, DMA, as musical coach, with the Stetson University Symphony Orchestra performing the score.

Tickets are on sale now through Stetson’s School of Music ticketing platform at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/stetsonuniversityschoolofmusic. Prices are $15 general admission, $5 for youth ages 13-17 or college students with ID, and free with a Stetson ID.

Performance details:
• Friday, March 20, 2026 – 7:30 p.m. 
• Sunday, March 22, 2026 – 3 p.m. 
• Venue: DeLand High School Auditorium, 800 North Hill Ave., DeLand, Florida