Shippensburg University's Little Princess Playhouse's production of "Beauty and the Beast."

SHIPPENSBURG, Tuesday, Nov. 22 — Shippensburg University’s The Little Princess Playhouse returns this December for its Fall season with productions of “Beauty and the Beast” and “A Princess Christmas.”

The playhouse, sponsored by the university’s Department of Music and Theatre Arts, will present “Beauty and the Beast” and “A Princess Christmas” at 10 a.m. and again at 11:15 a.m. Dec. 3 and Dec. 10.

Debuting in February 2009, the playhouse has performances in historic Stewart Hall, recognized by its castle-like exterior.

The artistic directors for the playhouse, Paul and Gretchen Leitner created the playhouse to fill a void in local family entertainment.

According to Paul Leitner, “The response from the campus and the town has been overwhelming. We were excited to get so many positive comments after Cinderella and last season’s “Cinderella” and “The Dancing Princesses.”

Since its inception, more 2,000 young people have attended a production.

The cast is made up of university students, many of whom are elementary education majors.

Megan Fick, a returning ensemble member,  said, “I love the mission of the Little Princess Playhouse and how it is an original program not offered anywhere else in the community.”

According to Gretchen Leitner, “Working with the student actors is energizing and exciting. They offer creative zest and energy which is contagious. We can’t wait for the audience to get here.”

Back by popular demand is the holiday favorite, “A Princess Christmas” which is an original modern adaptation of the holiday classic, “A Christmas Carol.”

Leitner, however, promises no scary ghosts, “Parents need not fear any rattling chains or frightening images for toddlers, just good wholesome family entertainment…and lots of princess dresses.”

Admission is $4. Tickets are available at the door; seating is limited.  Parking is free and it is suggested visitors park in the Memorial Auditorium lot and then walk to Stewart Hall. For more information, call 477-1638.