Opera Queensland performers Tashana Hardy (back left) and Gabrielle Diaz (back right), with Keerit, Declan and Isaac at the hospital's performance of Hansel and Gretel.
The performance space of the Queensland Children's Hospital (QCH) has been transformed into a theatre, as patients and their families enjoyed the magic of opera.
The performance of Hansel and Gretel by Opera Queensland (OQ) in creative collaboration with Shake & Stir Theatre Co. was part of the hospital’s Arts in Health program, helping keep children and young people connected with the outside world through workshops, performances and educational activities.
Lynne Seear, Strategic Lead for Arts in Health for Children’s Health Queensland (CHQ) said:
“It’s important for us to connect our patients with experiences away from their treatment, and taking part in the arts while in hospital can help children heal, recover and go home faster.”
“Play and entertainment is also essential to growth, and just because a child is in hospital doesn’t mean they stop developing,” she said.
Research shows the arts are an integral component of health. The Children's Health Queensland (CHQ) Arts in Health program continues to foster a sense of connection and community at the QCH, offsetting the clinical environment with opportunities for fun, play, respite and relaxation,
Students from the Queensland Children's Hospital School (pictured) including Keerit, Declan and Isaac, were among the children at the QCH who followed Hansel and Gretel on their journey into the Ilsenstein forest.
Some of Queensland’s most energetic opera talents including Tashana Hardy (back left) and Gabrielle Diaz (back right) performed the contemporary take on the classic fairytale in the QCH performance space, bringing the set to the hospital themselves, and managing everything from the sound, to sets and props, and back of house logistics .
Tashana Hardy, who played Hansel in her first role with OQ said: “It’s an honour to introduce children at the hospital to the world of opera in a way that’s fun, engaging and truly magical.”
Gabrielle Diaz, who played Gretel said: "It’s fitting that the Queensland Children’s Hospital was one of our first stops, with our cast and crew inspired to educate young fans, and give them age-appropriate storytelling through voice, song and action.”