What: The family-friendly theater production Gretel & Hansel: A New Twist on an Old Tail flips the Grimm Brothers’ classic fairy tale on its head.

Why: This show pointedly deals with real issues facing families today. Gretel starts out as a spoiled child, but meeting the witch Carmen Monoxide turns her into a self-reliant problem-solver.

Bonus: The witch raps her spells, and Hansel and Gretel have a few sweet singing numbers.

Details: Through July 19. Tue-Thu 10 a.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m., 1 p.m. Tramway Theatre, 1101 13th St. $6. For more information, call 303-893-4100 or visit www.denvercenter.org.

AND

What: Carlisle Floyd’s opera Susannah tells the tragic story of a Tennessee girl wrongly accused of immoral behavior.

Why: The first full opera of this acclaimed American composer offers a look into Southern life during the depression.

Bonus: Finally, an opera in English.

Details: Through Aug 10. Days and time vary. Central City Opera, 124 Eureka St., Central City. $45-$93. For more information, call 303-292-6700 or visit www.centralcityopera.org