The play-going crowd disembarked the Ward’s Island
ferry just as the sun began its descent behind Toronto’s cityscape. Before us, lay a sprawling park neatly
adorned with props and set displays, beckoning us closer. We were here to see the opening performance of
Hansel and Gretel: A
Case Study,
Shadowland Theatre’s modern adaptation of
the classic Brothers Grimm tale.
The darker take on the tale was
cleverly narrated by none other than Sigmund Freud, adding the perfect dose of mystic allure to the story.
The plot humourously examines this tale from a contemporary standpoint: The protagonists are thrust into the
real world after their family farm is condemned due to an unknown bird flu-type outbreak.
The three-part interactive play
moves to different locations around the island’s park grounds, encouraging conversation between spectators
and performers. As the plot grows darker, so does the sky above, providing the necessary scenic conditions
for a captivating and colourful shadow-puppet display.
Standing the test of time, this
favourite coming-of-age story is made ever more successful by its adapted nomadic style and quirky
characters. Witness the unique transformation of Ward’s Island into a fantastical world where the witch, as
always, gets her just desserts.
Suitable for audiences of
all ages, this very limited engagement runs until Aug. 14. For more information and to purchase tickets,
visit shadowlandtheatre.ca
—
Jessica Hersey