Press Release: STORYBOOK MUSICAL THEATRE PRESENTS THE ENCHANTING TALE OF SLEEPING BEAUTY FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON
Storybook Musical Theatre, the Abington-based, professional children’s theater company, will start it’s 26th season with the beloved tale of “Sleeping Beauty”. The musical will first play at the Gratz College Theater, 7605 Old York Road, Melrose Park, PA. from December 19 to 30 (no shows December 24 and 25), and then transfers to the Bluett Theater of St. Joseph’s University, 56th & Overbook Av., Philadelphia, to conclude the run from January 9 to 13, 2018.
Tickets are $12 for children, $14 for adults with school and group discounts available. For reservations and further information: 215-659-8550 orwww.storybookmusical.org
Adapted from the original Charles Perrault story by Storybook’s Artistic Director, Patricia Goldberg, with original music by Kevin Arruda, this delightful tale puts the fate of a sleeping beauty, and her entire kingdom, into the hands of a brave, young prince.
“Sleeping Beauty” opens wth a woodsman, in an enchanted forest, telling Prince Bryon about a hundred-years curse that was cast upon the kingdom by an evil fairy after the young princess, Briar Rose, pricked her finger on a spinning wheel’s thimble. Only the prince is brave and romantic enough to break the spell but he faces many thorny obstacles that stand in his way.
Storybook has gathered seven, talented, local professional actors for its cast:
In the role of the valiant Prince Bryon is Storybook newcomer Chris Monaco, of Wallingford. The sleeping beauty, Briar Rose is played by Erica Cochran of Philadelphia. Erica was seen last season in Storybook’s in “Puss ’n Boot”. Topher Layton, of Philadelphia, fills the role of the mysterious woodsman. Layton is also new to Storybook. Jeff Reim,, of Sewell N.J., a Storybook veteran, takes on the role of the King. The Queen is played by Christine Petrini, of Burlington N.J. also making her Storybook debut. The good fairy, Joycelyn, who tries to break the evil spell, is played by Storybook favorite, Aileen Goldberg, of Upper Darby. And, of course, the best is last. Evileen, the wicked fairy, who casts the hundred years spell, is played by newcomer, Vanessa Sterling, of Philadelphia.
The director of “Sleeping Beauty” is Patricia Goldberg. Musical Director is Nancy Wiker, with costumes by Kim Hanley, sets by Pat Goldberg and lighting by Marc S. Goldberg. Showtimes for “Sleeping Beauty” vary according to date. Reservations are recommended. Children’s tickets: $12, Adults: $14 with generous school and group discounts.
Storybook productions are appropriate for children age three and older. After each performance children have the opportunity to meet the actors for a handshake, picture or autograph.
The Prince, played by Chris Monaco, kisses the Princess, played by Erica Corchran, to break the spell, in Storybook’s production of “Sleeping Beauty”. Photo by Mike Levin
For information, reservations or directions call: 215-659-8550 or www.storybookmusical.org.
