The Atlantic Theater Company in New York City opens its 1998-99 season Oct. 14 with a first preview of the disturbing Australian drama, Wolf Lullaby, about the murder of a small child and the involvement of a nine-year-old girl.

Atlantic artistic director Neil Pepe stages Hilary Bell’s 1996 play, which had its American premiere at Chicago’s Steppenwolf Theatre earlier this year. Previews continue to Oct. 27, with an Oct. 29 opening. It continues through Nov. 22 at the Atlantic Theater, 336 W. 20th St.

Set in Tasmania and inspired by real-life child-on-child violence stories, the drama follows two parents as they uncover facts about their daughter’s role in a murder.

Atlantic regulars Larry Bryggman, Kate Blumberg, Jordan Lage and Mary McCann are featured. Pepe directed last season’s Mojo for the Atlantic Theater Company. Designers are Walt Spangler (set), Linda Cho (costumes), Howard Werner (lighting), Donald DiNicola (original music and sound).

Tickets are $10-$45. For information, call (212) 645-1242 or (212) 239 6200. -- By Kenneth Jones