Centerstage announced the latest of its enormously popular English Christmas pantos, “Sleeping Beauty.” Part of a tradition that goes back three centuries, Centerstage pantos are written by Paul Hendy, now widely-regarded in England as one of the best in the business.

The term “pantomime” is sometimes confusing to American audiences, who equate the term with silent action. English Christmas pantomimes are anything but silent. The “panto” is an evolving style that traces its roots back to a Commedia dell’ arte production at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane in 1708. Drawing on a dozen or so traditional fairy tales, the panto is built around stock comedy routines. Many beloved traditions have developed over the years: The Dame, always played by a man; the Prince, often played by a woman; audience participation taken to a new level and scores drawn freely from popular music of the day. Above all, the pantomime is carefully crafted for kids from 4 to 104. It is not just children’s theatre. It is most definitely family entertainment.

“Sleeping Beauty” is directed by Vince Brady. The set is by Catherine Cornell, the costumes by Janessa Jayne Styck, music direction is by Deborah Armstrong, lighting design by Amy Silveria and choreography by Chris Nardine. The cast features Sarah Mather as Sleeping Beauty supported by Joshua Williamson, Katherine Jett, Dale Bowers, Cooper Harris-Turner, Sara Henley-Hicks and Alan Bryce as Nurse Nellie.

All shows are at the Knutzen Family Theatre, located at 3200 SW Dash Point Road, Federal Way. Performances begin at 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and at 2 p.m. Sundays Nov. 28 through Dec. 20. Tickets are $30 for adults; $25 for seniors and military; $15 for youth 18-25 and $10 for kids under 18. Tickets may be purchased at 253-661-1444 or www.centerstagetheatre.com.