Storybook Musical Theatre, the Abington-based, professional, Equity, children's theater company, will open its 16th season with a magical and exciting adaptation of the beloved L. Frank Baum tale, "The Wizard of Oz." This original musical is adapted by Storybook's Artistic Director, Patricia Goldberg, with music and lyrics by composer, Kevin Arruda. The musical first plays at the Mitchell Performing Arts Center in Bryn Athyn, Pa. from November 27 to December 2. It then returns for the holidays to The Mitchell Center, December 17 to December 30. The show will conclude its run at the Bluett Theater of St. Joseph's University, January 8 to 12, 2008. Tickets are $10.00 for children and $12.00 for adults, with group discounts available. For reservations or more information call: 215-659-8550.

As everyone knows, "The Wizard of Oz" follows Dorothy as she is "swept up" on quite an adventure that takes her not only down the yellow brick road, where she makes friends with a Scarecrow, Tinman and Lion, but includes encounters with a not so friendly Wicked Witch, who has eyes on her fancy, ruby footwear. Along the journey the four adventurers learn that wishes really do come true and there truly is no place like home.

Storybook has gathered seven talented, local, professional actors for their cast:

The undaunted Dorothy, who takes on the Wicked Witch, is played by Aileen Goldberg, of Wilmington, De. She was seen last season as Alice in Storybook's "Alice in Wonderland." Other Storybook credits; "Rumpelstiltskin," "Cinderella," "Aladdin," and Prince and the Pauper." Regional credits; "The Pirate" at the Prince Music Theater", "Beauty & the Beast" and "42nd Street" at New Candlelight Dinner Theater, "West Side Story," "Bye, Bye, Birdie," and "Damn Yankees" at Three Little Bakers Dinner Theater. In late January, she will travel to Arizona, to the Broadway Palm West Dinner Theater, to be part of their production of "Hello Dolly."

Bill Fitzpatrick, of West Chester, plays the Tinman, who wishes for a brain, when all along he had all the smarts he needed. Previous Storybook credits include: "Alice in Wonderland", "The Dancing Princesses" and "Puss 'n Boots." Regional credits: "Custard the Dragon" for Light- Keeper Productions, "No, No, Nanette," "Sweet Charity," "Good News," "Oklahoma," and "Little Shop of Horrors."

Jeff Reim, of Sewell ,N.J., plays the heartless Tinman who finds that he has always had a strong ticker. Reim has been seen in such Storybook favorites as "Rumpelstiltskin," "Little Red Riding Hood," "Pinocchio" and "Aladdin." His regional credits include shows at the New Candlelight and Three Little Baker's Dinner Theaters and Bristol Riverside Theater. In addition, Reim has composed music for eight Storybook productions.

Rounding out the trio of adventurers is Jason Michael, of Sinking Springs, PA., as the Lion who finds the courage just in time to save Dorothy. Michael is a newcomer to Storybook, but has appeared locally at the Ritz Theater in "Titanic" and American Family Theater in "We the People." In addition, he is the children's theater director for Upper Darby Summer Stage program.

In every story has to have a character who passes along wisdom, and in this cast it is Storybook veteran David Mulholland, of Bristol, PA., as both the all telling Professor and the all-powerful Wizard. Mulholland, was seen last season in Storybook's "Rumpelstiltskin" and just appeared in Act Out Theatre's "No Longer Warriors." Other Storybook credits: "Aladdin," "Jack & the Beanstalk," "Pinocchio," and "Emperor's." Regional credits: "Big River" at Mr. Gretna Playhouse, "Our Town" at Delaware Theater Company, and "Snow Queen" at Prince Theater.

The Good Witch, who teaches Dorothy the secret of the ruby slippers and helps her return home, is played by Storybook newcomer, Alisa Stamps, of King of Prussia, PA. Her credits include the recent production of "Titanic" at the Ritz Theater and concerts with Peter Nero and the Philly Pops. She has also appeared on a PBS Special featuring Denyce Grave and Patti LaBelle.

Finally, what would "The Wizard of Oz" be without the wonderfully cantankerous and conceited Wicked Witch, this time played by Storybook favorite, Faith Sherman, of Dublin, PA. Storybook credits include: "Alice in Wonderland," "Aladdin," "Jack and the Beanstalk," "Pinocchio," "Rapunzel" and "Emperor's New Clothes," just to name a few. When not acting, she is a Artist/Teacher with Storybook's outreach programs and a dance instructor.

Children's tickets are $10.00, Adults are $12.00 with generous school/group discounts available. Show times vary with each run. Call box office for dates and times available.

All Storybook productions are appropriate for ages 3 and older. As always, everyone gets to meet the cast after each show for a handshake, autograph or photo.

For information or reservations, call box office at 215-659-8550 or visit Storybook's website: www.storybookmusical.org.