Theodore Mann, co-founder of Circle-in-the-Square, and Hair's Galt MacDermott have collaborated to create Elvis: An American Artist, a new musical based on the life of good ol' boy-turned-icon, Elvis Presley. The musical will play a limited run at the American Theatre of Actors, March 19-April 11.

Mann will direct Elvis: An American Artist, which begins in the last five years of Elvis' life and flashes back to the childhood Elvis falling in love with rhythm and blues. The musical depicts the ups and downs of fame, including and Elvis' troubled relationship with his manipulative manager, Colonel Tom Parker.

Though the show contains no actual songs ever performed by Elvis, a production spokesperson told PBOL (March 18) the show would feature songs, by Sandra Hochman and Rob Stoner, based on the life of Elvis. Hair's MacDermott composed all the incidental dance music

Hochman is the author of the novel, "Walking Papers" and is the recipient of two Pulitzer Prize nominations. Stoner is the former bandleader and guitarist for "The Bob Dylan Band" (from the Rolling Thunder period). This is their first venture in the legit theatre world.

The production stars Gary Lynch (Les Mis) as the title role, and Darin Altoy (Evita) in the role of Gladys, Elvis' mother. For tickets or more information, call Ticket Central at (212) 279 4200.

-- By Sean McGrath