THEATER In Previews ELSA EDGAR New York debut of Bob Kingdom’s public relations ...

ELSA EDGAR

New York debut of Bob Kingdom's public relations story about a known "big mouth" & an FBI director; Primary Stages, 354 W. 45th St. (betw. 8th & 9th Aves.), 333-4052; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, Sun. at 7, mats. Sat. & Sun. at 2, $35 [opens 12/15, through 1/16].

 

HOME OF THE BRAVE

Prejudice, isolation & anti-semitism during W.W.II; Jewish Repertory Theatre Playhouse, 316 E. 91st St. (betw. 1st & 2nd Aves.), 831-2000; Weds., Thurs., Sat. & Tues. at 8, Sun. at 7, mats. Weds. & Sun. at 2, $35-$40 [opens 12/12, through 11/23].

 

IF MEMORY SERVES

Dark comedy exploits the entertainment industry; Promenade Theater, 2162 B'way (76th St.), 239-6200; Weds. at 7, Thurs.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds., Sat. & Sun. at 3, $47.50 & $49.50 [opens 12/8].

 

SWING

Musical & dance celebration feat. vocalist Ann Hampton Callaway; St. James Theater, 246 W. 44th St. (betw. B'way & 8th Ave.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mat. Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3, $20-$75 [opens 12/9, through 1/2].

 

THEATER OF LIGHT

Rudi Stern, best known for his work with The Doors & Timothy Leary gives first light show in 30 years. Production combines hand-painted images with light projections & new age/dreamlike music; the Flea, 41 White St. (betw. Church St. & B'way), 800-965-4827; Thurs. & Sun. at 8, Fri. & Sat. at 8 & 10, $25 [opens 12/12, through 1/7].

 

WAITING IN THE WINGS

Noel Coward's production about a retirement home for women actresses; Walter Kerr Theater, 219 W. 48th St. (betw. 7th & 8th Aves.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, Sun. at 7:30, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3, $25-$70 [opens 12/16].

 

Just Opened

AMERICAN ZERO

What happens when one only wants what he cannot have; Theater Row Theater, 424 W. 42nd St. (betw 9th & 10th Aves.), 774-4126; Weds., Fri. & Sat. at 8, $10, $5 st. [through 12/11].

 

ANOTHER AMERICAN: ASKING & TELLING

The New Group & David Marshall Grant explores military's issues with gays & lesbians; Playhouse at St. Clement's, 423 W. 46th St. (betw. 9th & 10th Aves.), 279-4200; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, Sun. at 3 & 7, $20-$35 [opens 12/16, through 1/30].

 

ANOTHER DYSFUNCTIONAL CHRISTMAS

Awry holiday one-acts with you guessed it, a Y2K theme; Theater 22, 54 W. 22nd St. (betw. 5th & 6th Aves.), 971-1091; Mon. & Tues. at 8, $12 [through 12/21].

 

ASPHYXIA & OTHER PROMISES

Based on Angela Carter's adaptation of the fairy tale "Parsley Girl;" The Piano Store, 158 Ludlow St. (Stanton St.), 946-5734; Thurs.-Sat. at 8, mat. Sun. at 4, $12 [through 12/19].

 

THE BALCONY

"A monarchy is saved by whorehouse patrons dressed in costumes of their private s&m fantasies;" Jean Cocteau Rep. at Bouwerie Lane Theater, 330 Bowery (Bond St.), 677-0060; Sat. & Sun. at 8, $30, $24 s.c., $15 st. [through 12/16].

 

ADAM BAUM & THE JEW MOVIE

Comedy about a Jewish movie tycoon who hires a screenwriter to write an anti-Semitism movie about America; McGinn/Cazale Theater, 2162 B'way (betw. 76th & 77th Sts.), 279-4200; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Sat. at 2, Sun. at 5, $30 [opens 12/12, through 1/2].

 

THE BOOM-ITTY OF ERRORS

Hiphop rendition of Shakespeare's The Comedy of Errors; 45 Bleecker, 45 Bleecker St. (Lafayette St.), 307-4100; Weds.-Fri. & Tues. at 8, Sat. at 5 & 9, Sun. at 3 & 7, $20-$35 [opens 12/12].

 

BOUNCING BACK

Musical about five New Yorkers who get fired from their jobs; Triangle Theater, 316 E. 88th St. (betw. 1st & 2nd Aves.), 860-7244; Thurs.-Sat. at 8, mat. Sun. at 3, $12 [through 12/12].

 

BOUND & GAGGED

A look at one's mans experiences with being gay; Nada, 167 Ludlow St. (betw. Houston & Stanton Sts.), 420-1466; Thurs.-Sun. at 10, $12 [through 12/19].

 

BOYFRIEND FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Looking for love in all the wrong places? Romantic musical challenges gay man's monogamous life; Wings Theater, 154 Christopher St. (betw. Greenwich & Washington Sts.), 627-2961; Thurs.-Sat. at 8, mat. Sun. at 3:30, $17.50 [through 12/23].

 

THE BUDDY PERFORMANCE

"Two cowboy gynecologists in search of the male grail;" Here, 145 6th Ave. (betw. Spring & Dominick Sts.), 647-0202 or www.here.org; Fri.-Sun. at 8, $12 [through 12/19].

 

CARRIN BEGINNING

Local Irish misfits meet an Irish troubadour at their local pub & it changes their lives forever; Chelsea Playhouse, 125 W. 22nd St. (betw. 6th & 7th Aves.), 279-4200; Weds.-Sat. & Mon. at 8, Sun. at 7:30, mats. Sat. & Sun. at 3, $32.50 [through 12/19].

 

THE CHILDREN

The press release claims it's a "bizarre exciting new show...low-budget b-musical poperetta...just like Wit. Except with songs. And no chemo;" Here, 145 6th Ave. (betw. Spring & Dominick Sts.), 647-0202 or www.here.org; call for times, $12 [through 12/18].

 

A COOKIES KORQUIE CHRISTMAS

Cookies & Korquie's humorous sketches & spoofs on Christmas songs incl. "The Snow Queen Ballet;" Vital Theater, 432 W. 42nd St., 3rd Fl. (betw. 9th & 10th Aves.), 592-4508; Thurs.-Sun. at 8, $15 [through 12/19].

 

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Adaptation of Charles Dickens' story; Thirteenth St. Rep, 50 W. 13th St. (betw. 5th & 6th Aves.), 675-6677; Fri. & Sat. at 7, mats. Sat. & Sun. at 3 [through 1/22].

 

DANCING WITH MY DEMONS

Ruth Otero's one-woman comic tale about conquering fear; Blue Heron Arts Center, 121 E. 24th St. (betw. Park Ave. S. & Lexington Ave.), 332-0027; Thurs. at 8, $12 [through 12/9].

 

THE EIGHT: REINDEER MONOLOGUES

Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner & Blitzen reveal truths behind stocking stuffing & one accuses Santa of sexual harassment; Duplex, 61 Christopher St. (7th Ave.), 255-5438; Weds. & Thurs. at 8, Sat. at 9, $12 & 2 drink min. [through 12/18].

 

1839

Gale Gates' new collaboration with composer Joseph Diebes & Michael Counts, named after the year the camera was invented; Gale Gates' Performance Space, 37 Main St., D.U.M.B.O., 718-522-4597; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 9, $15-$25 [through 12/18].

 

ELEKTRA BY SOPHOCLES

Greek mythology play directed by Andreas Manolikakis; Raw Space Studio Theater, 529 W. 42nd St. (betw. 10th & 11th Aves.), 279-4200; Weds.-Sat. at 8, mats. Sat. & Sun. at 3, free.

 

ENTER THE NIGHT

Sonja Moser directs production about friends crossing the platonic line; Signature Theater Co., 555 W. 42nd St. (betw. 10th & 11th Aves.), 244-PLAY; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Sat. at 2 & Sun. at 3, $35 [opens 12/19].

 

EXTREME GIRL

Barbara Blackburn takes on multiple personalities to convey messages about beauty, love & society's expectations of women, with most monologues transcribing the "good girl gone bad" scenario?dominatrix, sex toys, etc.; Currican Theater, 154 W. 29th St. (betw 6th & 7th Aves.), 726-8800; Weds.-Sat. at 8, $15 [opens 12/10, through 2/27].

 

FILAMENT CYCLE

Multimedia avant-garde play about a Bakan woman who meets an American filmmaker; La MaMa E.T.C., 74A E. 4th St. (betw. 2nd Ave. & Bowery), 475-7710; Thurs.-Sun. at 8, mat. Sun. at 3:30, $12 [through 12/19].

 

FLESH & BLOOD

Play explores sexual boundaries when a gay film tycoon is murdered & his body is no where to be found; Sanford Meisner Theater, 164 11th Ave. (betw. 22nd & 23rd Sts.), 206-1764; Fri., Sat. & Tues. at 8, mat. Sun. at 3, $15 [opens 12/10, through 1/2].

 

THE FLYING FRUIT FLY CIRCUS

Acrobats, jugglers & trapeze artists ages 10-18 take over the New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St. (B'way), 239-6200; call for times, $10-$35 [through 1/2].

 

FUDDY MEERS

David Lindsay-Abaire's comedy about one woman's attempt to regain memory; City Center, 131 W. 55th St. (betw. 6th & 7th Aves.), 581-1212; Weds.-Sat. at 7:30, mats. Sat. & Sun. at 3, $40 [through 12/12].

 

GLORY BOX

Tim Miller's solo exploration of same-sex marriage & immigration rights; P.S. 122, 150 1st Ave. (9th St.), 477-5288; Thurs.-Sun. at 7:30, $20 [through 12/19].

GOD OF VENGEANCE

Sholom Asch's 1932 controversial play about a Jewish male Madame who attempts to marry his daughter off; Show World, 671 8th Ave. (betw. 42nd & 43rd Sts.,), 269-4849; Weds., Thurs. & Sat. at 8, Sun. at 2 & 7:30, $15 [through 1/2].

 

GORKY'S WIFE

Veronica, an illegal alien comes to L.A. with a few friends in attempt to find history; Present Co. Theatorium, 198 Stanton St. (Ridge St.), 420-8877; Thurs.-Sat. at 8, mat. Sun. at 3, $12 [through 12/19].

 

hamlet

Andrei Serban directs Shakespeare's classic, part of Shakespeare Festival at Joseph Papp Public Theater, 425 Lafayette St. (Astor Pl.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Sat. & Sun. at 2, $45 [opens 12/19, through 1/2].

 

ICE ISLAND: THE WAIT FOR SHACKLETON

Like the book Alive, but on a remote island in Antarctica, directed by Marjorie Duffield; The Melting Pot, 311 W. 43rd St. (betw. 8th & 9th Aves.), 279-4200; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Sat. at 2 & Sun. at 3, $35 [through 12/19].

 

AN IDEAL DECEPTION

Leo A. Esses' play looks at the life of Jonathan Pollard, a man who's serving a life sentence for espionage; 24th St. Theater, 241 E. 24th St. (betw. 2nd & 3rd Sts.), 532-7952; Weds. & Sun. at 3 & 7, Thurs. at 7, $12 & 2 drink min. [through 12/12].

 

INAPPROPRIATE

A look inside the minds & hearts of teenager's, adapted from stories written by DeSisto school graduates; Theater Row Theater, 424 W. 42nd St. (betw 9th & 10th Aves.), 279-4200; Weds.-Sat. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3, $30-$40 [through 1/15].

 

INFRARED

Play about a monster who looks for his abducted shadow; Dance Theater Workshop, 219 W. 19th St. (betw. 7th & 8th Aves.), 924-0077; Fri. & Sat. at 11 $15, $10 st./s.c., & kids under 12 [through 12/18].

 

AN INDIAN WANTS THE BRONX

Pippo Curley Productions pres. Israel Horovitz's 1968 play about a non-English speaking man who's separated from his son; Grove St. Playhouse, 39 Grove St. (betw. Hudson & Bleecker Sts.), 591-2357; Weds.-Sat. at 8, Sun. at 7, $12 [through 12/19].

 

JOLSON & CO.

James Morgan directs musical play about entertainer at Theater at St. Peter's Church, 619 Lexington Ave. (54th St.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mat. Weds. & Sat. at 2:30, Sun. at 3, $40-$45 [through 1/2].

 

KING OF HEARTS

Musical based on the movie with the same name about an American soldier attempting to save a French town from the Germans during WWII,; 14th St. Y Theater, 344 E. 14th St. (1st Ave.), 362-5620; call for times, $15 [through 12/19].

 

MAYBE BABY, IT'S YOU

Bachelor #540 please step forward?comedy about finding the man of your dreams moves to Soho Playhouse, 15 Vandam St. (betw. 6th Ave. & Varick St.), 239-6200; Weds.-Fri. at 8, Sat. at 6 & 9, Sun. at 3 & 6, $35-$47.50.

 

MIAMI BEACH MONSTERS

What if movie monsters from the 30s, 40s & 50s all lived in Miami??musical performance feat. Frankenstein, his bride, Count Dracula & The Wolfman at Triad Theater, 158 W. 72nd St. (betw. Amsterdam & Columbus Aves.), 799-4599; Weds. at 8, mat. Sun. at 1, $25 & $10 min. [through 12/23].

 

MIDNIGHT BRAIN REVIVAL

Inverse Theater's satirical look at millennium madness; Kraine Theater, 85 E. 4th St. (betw. 2nd Ave. & Bowery), 501-4528; Thurs.-Sun. at 7:30, $12 [through 12/19].

 

MESSIAH

New York's Millennium Arts Productions premieres the choreographed opera version of Handel's classic; John Jay College, 899 10th Ave. (betw. 58th & 59th Sts.), 307-4100; Thurs.-Sat. at 7:30, Sun. at 5:30, $45 [through 12/12].

 

MISHKIN'S PARADISE

Fred Feldman's new production about a Jewish immigrant struggling to obtain "the American dream;" St. Clement's Church, 423 W. 46th St. (betw. 9th & 10th Aves.), 246-7277; Mon. at 8, $12, $6 st. or free with canned food [through 1/3].

 

MONGOLIA

Two misfit midwestern lovers attempt to find Mongolia; Mint Theater Space, 311 W. 43rd St. (betw. 8th & 9th Aves.), 502-0763; Thurs.-Sat. at 8, $10 [through 12/11].

 

MURDER IN MIND

French play by Xavier Durringer about adultery & betrayal; La MaMa E.T.C., 74A E. 4th St. (betw. 2nd Ave. & Bowery), 475-7710; Thurs.-Sun. at 7:30, mat. Sat. at 3, $15-$20, $10 st. [through 12/12].

 

A NIGHT AT THE TROJAN WALL

Spoof of Homer's Iliad told by a clown; Present Company Theatorium, 198 Stanton St. (Ridge St.), 420-8877; Mon.-Weds. at 8, call for price [through 12/15].

 

OTHELLO

Sidney Fortner directs all-female production of Shakespeare's classic at Trilogy Theater, 341 W. 44th St. (betw. 8th & 9th Aves.), 501-1986; Weds.-Sat. at 8, mat. Sun. at 3, $12 [through 12/19].

 

PASSION WITHOUT REASON

Strobe Entertainment & the Ohio Players Theater collaborate for a production by Neal Harris with pre-show buffet; Demerara Restaurant Theater, 215 W. 28th St. (betw. 7th & 8th Ave.), 874-7627; Sat. at 4 & 7, $30 [through 12/11].

 

PEARL RIVER

"Dance of fast fights & frenzied flirtations" set to Jackie Chan's Spiritual Kung Fu; Context Studios, 28 Ave. A (betw. 2nd & 3rd Sts.), 777-3394; Weds. & Thurs., Fri. & Sat. at 8 & 10, $12 [through 12/11].

 

PERVY VERSE

Play explores London's sex culture of bondage & doninatrix, set in legendary porn palace, Show World, 671 8th Ave. (betw. 42nd & 43rd Sts.,), 420-1466; Weds., Thurs., Sat., Sun. & Tues. at 7:30, $12, $10 st. [through 12/21].

 

RATS IN THE TUNNEL

"The Mole People," aka the ones living under NYC's subway system & beneath Manhattan's bridges await the coming of Jesus on New Year's Eve; Theater for the New City, 155 1st Ave. (10th St.), 254-1109; Thurs. at 7, $10 [through 12/19].

 

SAVANNAH BAY

French colonial play explores themes of love & loss; Theater for the New City, 155 1st Ave. (10th St.), 279-4200; Weds.-Sat. at 8:30, mat. Sun. at 3, $35 [through 12/19].

 

SEX

Revival of Mae West's controversial 1926 play with music by the Sex Mob; Gershwin Hotel, 7 E. 27th St. (betw. 5th & Madison Aves.), 429-8122; Thurs.-Sat. at 8, Sun. at 3, $12 [through 1/16].

 

SIN, AN ORIGINAL MUSICAL

Production based on the seven deadly sins set to music that's part Ziggy Stardust part Fosse; La MaMa E.T.C., 74A E. 4th St. (betw. 2nd Ave. & Bowery), 475-7710; Thurs.-Sun. at 10, mat. Sun. at 5, $12 [through 12/19].

 

SINGING WITH MY DEMONS

Nancy L. Rogers directs play about an upcoming signer trying to "make it in the big time;" Expanded Arts, 85 Ludlow St. (betw. Broome & Delancey Sts.), 253-1813; Weds.-Sat. at 7, $12 [through 12/18].

 

SPACE

Scientist explores the unknown, part of Shakespearean Festival at Joseph Papp Public Theater, 425 Lafayette St. (Astor Pl.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Sat. & Sun. at 2, Sun. at 7, $45 [through 12/19].

 

STARBOARD HOME

Chuck Muckle & David Eisner's musical returns to the Triad Theater, 158 W. 72nd St. (betw. Amsterdam & Columbus Aves.), 799-4599; Sun. at 4, $15 & $15 min. [through 12/19].

 

STILL ON THE CORNER

Musical explores Manhattan's upper west side & the homeless sharing their streets; Castillo Theater, 500 Greenwich St. (betw. Spring & Canal Sts.), 941-1234; call for times, $30 [through 1/16].

 

SUMMER

Arthur Reel directs Judy GeBauer's adaptation of Edith Wharton's novel about a young woman's sexual awaking; Sargent Theatre, 314 W. 54th St., (betw. 8th & 9th Aves.), 595-1733; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mat. Sun. at 4, call for price [through 12/19].

 

SUN FLOWER: THE LIFE & LOVES OF ELIZABETH CADY STANTON

Solo play about Stanton's fight for women's rights & her association with Susan B. Anthony; John Houseman Theater, 450 W. 42nd St. (betw. 9th & 10th Aves.), 479-8513; Weds.-Sat. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3, $25 [through 12/12].

 

THE TRIAL OF ONE SHORT-SIGHTED BLACK WOMAN VS. MAMMY LOUISE & SEFRETTA MAE

Positive African-American history lesson told by Aunt Jemima; 466 Grand St. (Pitt St.), 279-4200; call for times, $25, $10 kids [through 12/12].

TRUE HISTORY & REAL ADVENTURES

Scottish woman leads teenagers across the US & to the World's Fair to find the real Calamity Jane; Vineyard Theater, 108 E. 15th St. (Irving Pl.), 353-3874; Weds. at 7, Thurs.-Sat. & Mon. at 8, mats. Sat. & Sun. at 3, $30 [through 1/8].

 

2 FROM ISRAEL

Theater for a New Generation salutes Israel Horovitz with two of his one-acts, "The Indian Wants the Bronz" & "Rats;" the Producer's Club, 358 W. 44th St. (betw. 8th & 9th Aves.), 714-3122; Weds. at 8, mats. Sat. & Sun. at 2, call for price.

 

VAMPIRE DREAMS

Mefisto Theater Co. debuts story about a 2000 year-old vampire posing as a professor; Altered Stages Theater, 212 W. 29th St. (betw. 7th & 8th Aves.), 760-5940; Weds.-Mon. at 8, mat. Sun. at 3, $12 [through 12/18].

 

A VERY SPECIAL CHRISTMAS WITH LAM MEDALLIONS & FRIENDS

Two performances influenced by Christmas advertisements from the 50s & 60s, benefits NYC AIDS charities; Triad Theater, 158 W. 72nd St. (betw. Amsterdam & Columbus Aves.), 362-2590; Thurs. at 8, $12 & 2 drink min. [through 12/16].

 

WHO YA CALLIN' HO HO HO!?A VERY LEA CHRISTMAS

Lea DeLaria's comic variety show at Joe's Pub at the Joseph Papp Public Theater, 425 Lafayette St. (Astor Pl.), 239-6200; Fri.-Sun. at 9, $25 [through 12/19].

 

Continuing

ANCESTRAL VOICES

Buffalo family's lives are in an uproar when grandma divorces grandpa to be with his best friend; Theater at Lincoln Center, 150 W. 65th St. (betw. B'way & Amsterdam Ave.), 239-6200; Sun. at 7:30, Mon. at 8, $45 [through 12/20].

 

THE BLACK, THE JEW & YOU!

Epstein & Hassan pres. a comedy about themselves; an interracial married couple who explore stereotypes & other "naked truths" they encounter at Surf Reality, 172 Allen St. (betw. Stanton & Rivington Sts.), 673-4182; Thurs. at 8, $8.

 

the countess

Drama based on true story, scandal that rocked Victorian England; Samuel Beckett Theater, 410 W. 42nd St. (betw. 9th & 10th Aves.), 594-2826; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds., Sat. & Sun. at 3, $45, $35 st./s.c.

 

DAME EDNA: THE ROYAL TOUR

Barry Humphires' dolls himself up to portray a housewife, British royalty advisor & whatever else he dreams up; Booth Theater, 222 W. 45th St. (betw. B'way & 8th Ave.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3, $45-$60.

 

DE LA GUARDA

Argentine theater group infuses theater with rock, dance, aerial contortionism & carnival elements in long-running smash Villa Villa; Daryl Roth Theater, 20 Union Sq. East (15th St.), 239-6200; Weds., Thurs. & Tues. at 8, Fri. & Sat. at 7 & 10, Sun. at 7, $40-$45.

 

THE DONKEY SHOW

"A Midsummer Night's disco" at El Flamingo 547 W. 21st St. (betw. 10th & 11th Aves.), 307-4100 or 971-1016; Thurs. & Sun. at 8, Fri. & Sat. at 8 & 10:30, $25.

 

EPIC PROPORTIONS

Comical look at early filmmaking in Hollywood, directed by Jerry Zaks; Helen Hayes Theater, 240 W. 44th St. (betw. B'way & 8th Ave.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3, $45-65.

 

THE EXACT CENTER OF THE UNIVERSE

Small Southern town is put in an uproar when son doesn't comply with mother's expectations; the Century Theater, 111 E. 15th St. (betw. Irving Pl. & Park Ave. S.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, Sun. at 3 & 7:30, mat. Sat. at 2, $45.

 

AN EXPERIMENT WITH AN AIR PUMP

Doug Hughes directs new play by Shelagh Stephenson; City Center, 131 W. 55th St. (betw. 6th & 7th Aves.), 581-1212; Weds.-Sat. at 8, Sun. at 7:30, mats. Sat. & Sun. at 2:30, $50 [through 12/12].

 

FINNEGAN'S FAREWELL

Finnegan's will orders his family to throw a stalwart Irish party?interactive comedy in repertory with Late Nite Catechism & Tony N' Tina's Wedding; St. Luke's Church, 308 W. 46th St. (betw. 8th & 9th Aves.), 279-4200; Weds. at 7, mat. Sat. at 2, $59.

 

GHOSTS

Drama taken from Henrik Ibsen's 1881 tale of a mother who attempts to escape the power of her late husband; Century Center for the Performing Arts, 111 E. 15th St. (betw. Irving Pl. & Park Ave. S.), 279-4200; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mat. Sat & Sun. at 3, $25.

IT AIN'T NOTHING BUT THE BLUES

Musical theater piece about the rhythms & history that gave birth to the Blues; Ambassador Theater, 219 W. 49th St. (betw. B'way & 8th Ave.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3, $35-$75 [through 1/30].

 

JAMES JOYCE'S THE DEAD

Musical based on Joyce's short opens on Broadway at the Belasco Theater, 111 W. 44th St. (betw. 6th & 7th Aves.), 239-6200; Tues. at 8, $25-$75 [opens 12/14, through 2/20].

 

KAT & THE KINGS

Musical presented rock 'n' royal style; Cort Theater, 138 W. 48th St. (betw. 6th Ave. & B'way), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3, $35-$75.

 

LAST TRAIN TO NIBROC

Two-character romantic comedy set during W.W.II; Douglas Fairbanks Theater, 432 W. 42nd St. (betw. 9th & 10th Aves.), 239-6200; Tues.-Fri. at 8, Sat. at 3 & 8, Sun. at 3 & 7, $45.

 

LATE NIGHT CATECHISM

Interactive comedy written by Vicki Quade & Maripat Donovan; St. Luke's Church, 308 W. 46th St. (betw. 8th & 9th Aves.), 239-6200; Fri. & Sat. at 8, mats. Sat. & Sun. at 3, $40.

 

LINE

Play by Israel Horovitz now in its 25th year; Thirteenth St. Rep, 50 W. 13th St. (betw. 5th & 6th Aves.), 675-6677; Weds. & Thurs. at 7, Fri. & Sat. at 9:30, $12.50, $8 st./s.c.

 

NAKED BOYS SINGING

Musical revue celebrates "being in your birthday suit"?eight naked men & 16 tunes; The Actors' Playhouse, 100 7th Ave. (betw. Grove & Bleecker Sts.), 463-0060; Weds.-Fri. & Mon. at 8, Sat. at 7 & 10, Sun. at 3 & 8, $45-$65.

 

NEVER SWIM ALONE

Daniel Maclvor's production evokes human behavior & rivalry between friends; St. Marks Studio Theater, 94 St. Marks Pl. (betw. 1st Ave. & Ave. A), 777-6088; Thurs.-Sat. at 8, $12 [through 12/18].

 

NOW HEAR THIS

Kathy Buckley's tales about being an American hearing-impaired comedienne; Lambs Theater, 130 W. 44th St. (betw. 6th & 7th Aves.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat., Mon. & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2:30, $25-$45.

 

OVER THE RIVER & THROUGH THE WOODS

Young man's indecision about his future sparks unsolicited advice & meddling from four Italian-American grandparents; John Housman Theater, 450 W. 42nd St. (betw. 9th & 10th Aves.), 239-6200; Fri., Sat., Mon. & Tues. at 8, Sun. at 3 & 7:30, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2:30, $47.50.

 

THE PASSION OF FRIDA KAHLO

Actress Priscilla Lopez plays celebrated Mexican painter, Frida Kahlo, play formerly known as Goodbye My Friduchita; ArcLight Theater, 152 W. 71st St. (betw. Columbus & Amsterdam Aves.), 307-4100; Weds.-Sun., Mon. & Tues. at 8, mat. Sat. at 3, $45.

 

THE PRICE

Arthur Miller's play about brothers reuniting to sort through deceased father's belongings; Royale Theater, 242 W. 45th St. (betw. B'way & 8th Ave.), 353-0303; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3, $25-$65.

 

CHARLIE VICTOR ROMEO

Play derived from airline "black box" emergency tapes; Collective Unconscious, 145 Ludlow St. (betw. Stanton & Rivington Sts.), 254-5277; Thurs.-Sat. at 8, $10 [through 12/11].

 

SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER

Musical inspired by Robert Stigwood's 1977 film; Minskoff Theater, 1515 B'way (45th St.), 307-4100; Weds.-Fri. & Tues. at 8, Sat. at 2 & 8, Sun. at 2 & 7:30, $30-$80.

 

SUMMER '69

Production reopens at new theater. Comical musical explores historical events such as Woodstock, Vietnam War & landing on the moon. Live rock 'n' roll band accompaniment performs music by Janis Joplin, Jerry Garcia, Bob Dylan & the like; Douglas Fairbanks Theater, 432 W. 42nd St. (betw. 9th & 10th Aves.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat. & Mon. at 8, Sun. at 7, mats. Sat. at 2 & Sun. at 3, $19.69-$49.50.

 

THWAK

The Umblical Brothers' production of vaudeville, physical comedy, performance art; Minetta Lane Theater, 18 Minetta Ln. (6th Ave.), 307-4100; Weds.-Fri. & Tues. at 8, Sat. at 7 & 10, mat. Sun. at 3, $15-$45 [through 1/2].

 

UNCLE JACK

Play based on Chekhov's Uncle Vanya, set in rural hills of West Virginia; Tribeca Playhouse, 111 Reade St. (betw. W. B'way & Hudson St.), 604-4195; Thurs.-Sat. & Mon. at 8, mat. Sun. at 3, $15-$35.

 

THE WEIR

Conor McPherson's Olivier-winning story of a woman on a journey of self-discovery in countryside pub; Walter Kerr Theater, 218 W. 48th St. (betw. B'way & 8th Ave.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3, $60 [through 1/2].

 

Y2K, YOU'RE OK

Satiric review of history from past 1000 years?Middle East crisis to Jerry Springer Show; Chicago City Limits Theater, 1105 1st Ave. (61st St.), 888-LAFF; Weds. & Thurs. & Mon. at 8:30, Fri. & Sat. at 8 & 10:30, $20, Mon. are free [through 12/31].

 

Long Runs

ANNIE GET YOUR GUN

Annie returns to the Marquis Theater, 1535 B'way (46th St.), 307-4100; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3, $35-$75.

 

BEAUTY & THE BEAST

Palace Theater, 1564 B'way (47th St.), 307-4100; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 1 & 6:30, $22.50-$80.

 

CABARET

The Roundabout Theater's production of Kander & Ebb's classic; Studio 54, 254 W. 54th St. (betw. B'way & 7th Ave.), 239-6200, Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Sat. & Sun. at 2, $45-$90.

 

CATS

Winter Garden Theater, 1634 B'way (50th St.), 239-6200; Weds., Fri. Sat., Mon. & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3, $40-$75.

 

CHICAGO

Concert version of 1975 musical starring Sandy Duncan; Schubert Theater, 225 W. 44th St. (betw. B'way & 8th Ave.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, Sun. at 7, mats. Sat. & Sun. at 2, $20-$75.

 

THE FANTASTICKS

Longest-running musical; Sullivan St. Theater, 181 Sullivan St. (betw. Bleecker & Houston Sts.), 674-3838; Weds.-Fri. & Tues. at 8, Sat. at 3 & 7, Sun. at 3 & 7:30, $36.50-$39.

 

FOOTLOOSE

Adaptation of 1984 film about small town that tries to outlaw dancing; Richard Rodgers Theater, 226 W. 46th St. (betw. B'way & 8th Ave.), 307-4100; Weds.-Sat., mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3, $25-$80.

 

FOSSE

Musical celebration of choreographer's oeuvre; Broadhurst Theater, 235 W. 44th St. (betw. B'way & 8th Ave.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat., & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3, $65-$80.

 

HEDWIG & THE ANGRY ITCH

A rock 'n' roll glam-punk musical inspired by Plato's Symposium; Jane Street Theater at the Hotel Riverview Ballroom, 113 Jane St. (West Side Hwy.), 239-6200 or www.hedwig.com; Weds. & Mon. at 8, Fri. at 8 & 11, Sat. at 7 & 10, Sun. at 7, $19.99-$49.50.

 

I LOVE YOU, YOU'RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE!

Musical revue looks at "Hopeful Heterosexuals;" Westside Theater, 407 W. 43rd St. (9th Ave.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat., Mon. & Tues. at 8, Sun. at 7:30, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2:30, $49.50-$52.50.

 

JEKYLL & HYDE

Musical by Frank Wildhorn & Leslie Bricusse; Plymouth Theater, 236 W. 45th St. (betw. B'way & 8th Ave.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3, $45-$80.

 

LES MISERABLES

Imperial Theater, 249 W. 45th St. (betw. B'way & 8th Ave.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat., & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3, $20-$80.

 

THE LION KING

New Amsterdam Theater, 214 W. 42nd St. (B'way), 307-4100; Weds.-Sat. at 8, Sun. at 6:30, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, $25-$85.

 

MISS SAIGON

B'way Theater, 1681 B'way (53rd St.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat., Mon. & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, $20-$80.

 

PERFECT CRIME

Long-running murder mystery; Duffy Theater, 1553 B'way (46th St.), 695-3401; Thurs.-Sat. & Mon. at 8, Sun. at 7, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3, $35.

 

PHANTOM OF THE OPERA

Majestic Theater, 247 W. 44th St. (betw. B'way & 8th Ave.), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat., Mon. & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2, $20-$80.

 

RAGTIME

Ford Center for the Performing Arts, 214 W. 43rd St. (betw. 7th & 8th Aves.), 307-4100; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2 & Sun. at 3, $31-$81.

 

RENT

An East Village La Boheme; Nederlander Theater, 208 w. 41st St. (betw. 7th & 8th Aves.), 307-4100; Thurs.-Sat., Mon. & Tues. at 8, Sun. at 7, mats. Sat. & Sun. at 2, $35-$80.

 

SECRETS EVERY SMART TRAVELER SHOULD KNOW

Airline humor & travel gags at the Ibis Theater, 321 W. 44th St. (betw. 8th & 9th Aves.), 799-4599; Weds.-Sat. & Mon. at 8, Sun. at 3 & 7:30, mat. Weds. at 2:30, $50-$55.

 

THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL

Production about the French Revolution; Neil Simon Theater, 250 W. 52nd St. (betw. B'way & 8th Ave.), 307-4100; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mat. Weds. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3, $45-$80.

 

SMOKEY JOE'S CAFE

Broadway musical based on songs of Leiber & Stoller, Rick Springfield joins the cast from 10/19-10/31; Virginia Theater, 245 W. 52nd St. (B'way), 239-6200; Weds.-Sat. & Tues. at 8, mats. Weds. & Sat. at 2 & Sun. at 3, $30-$75 [through 1/16].

 

TONY & TINA'S WEDDING

Same interactive musical theater, now in its 12th year of production; St. Luke's Church, 308 W. 46th St. (betw. 8th & 9th Aves.), reception at Vinnie Black's Vegas Room, Hotel Edison, 221 W. 46th St. (betw. B'way & 8th Ave.), 239-6200; Thurs.-Sat. at 7, mat. Sun. at 2, $65-$75.