Storybook Musical Theatre, one of the Philadelphia area's premiere theater companies for family entertainment, will present its 16th season of original musical adaptations based on beloved children's' stories and fairy tales from such famous authors as L. Frank Baum, Charles Perrault and Hans Christian Andersen.

The Abington, PA. based, non-profit, professional, Equity children's theatre will present a three-show season with performances at two locations throughout the Philadelphia area. In addition, Storybook has planned several special events including the continuation of special auctions for prizes including select children's walk-on roles in several of its musical productions.

Kicking off the season will be "Wizard of Oz." This is an original adaptation of the beloved book by Patricia Goldberg, Storybook's Artistic Director, with original music by composer Kevin Arruda. It first plays from November 27 to December 2, and then from December 17 to December 30, at the Mitchell Performing Arts Center in Bryn, Athyn, PA., (Huntingdon Valley). "Wizard" concludes its run at the Bluett Theater at St. Joseph's University, January 8 to 12, 2008. This beloved tale follows the adventures of Dorothy as she is "swept up" on a journey down the yellow brick road, with the Scarecrow, Tinman and Cowardly Lion, all having a special wish for the all-powerful Wizard. The famous L. Frank Baum story comes to life in one of Storybook's most popular productions, complete with a tornado, ruby slippers and, of course, a not very pleasant witch on a broomstick.

The second offering will tell the enchanted tale of a cat who takes her master from rags to riches. "Puss 'n Boots," an original musical based on the Charles Perrault tale, will be presented March 3 to March 16, 2008, at the Mitchell Performing Arts Center in Bryn Athyn, PA. The book is also by Patricia Goldberg with music by Jeff Reim. The story follows the younger son of a miller, who inherits, to his chagrin, the family cat. However, in a series of clever and humorous encounters with a King, a Princess and an unfriendly Ogre, he realizes he received the better part of the deal, after all, and created a friendship as well.

"Princess and the Pea," based on the Hans Christian Andersen story, will be the final offering of the season. One of Storybook's favorite shows, tells of the misfortunes of a lonely prince, who is seeking a bride, and a nagging mother, who has preselected one for him. However, he still remains unhappy until a knock at the castle door reveals the girl of his dreams. Only the Queen, twenty mattresses and a tiny, little pea, stand in their way. This musical adaptation is also by the writing team of Patricia Goldberg and Kevin Arruda. It first plays from May 3 to May 9, 2008 at St. Joseph University's Bluett Theater. It then follows with runs at the Mitchell Performing Arts Center May 27 to June 1 and then for the summertime, July 15 to 29, 2008.

Individual tickets for all Storybook shows are $10.00 for children and $12.00 for adults. School and group discounts of up to 30% are available, as is a reduced rate, 3-show subscription plan. Show times vary with each production. All Storybook shows are appropriate for ages 3 and older and everyone gets to meet the cast for a handshake, photo or autograph, after every performance. For information, to obtain a seasonal brochure, or to book a group or school trip, call Storybook Musical Theatre at 215-659-8550 or visit its web site at: www.storybookmusical.org.

Storybook's mission is the cultural enrichment and education of children (as young as age 3) and their families by introducing them to original musical adaptations based on fairy tales, folk lore and children's literature. It hopes to stimulate young imaginations and help develop a life-long appreciation of theater and the arts.