Last chance to catch Kudzu, a musical based on Doug Marlette's syndicated comic strip about the coming-of-age antics of Kudzu Dubose. The show began previews Mar. 4 at Ford's Theatre in Washington, DC, opened there Mar. 10, and ends tonight, June 23. No word yet on whether the show will continue life at a different venue.

The show's book, music and lyrics are by Jack Herrick, Doug Marlette and Bland Simpson -- and are based on Pulizer Prize-winner Marlette's satirical comic about a young man who resides in the mythical town of Bypass, NC, and dreams of becoming a writer.

The plot revolves around the efforts of Kudzu and his friends to halt the greedy schemes of Big Bubba, the town's mill mogul.

The musical features the bluegrass group The Red Clay Ramblers, who appeared on Broadway in Fool Moon.

Kudzu has been in development for several years and has been given readings in New York and at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In June 1997, the musical received a fully staged workshop at the Norma Terris Theatre in Chester, CT, as part of the new musical program at Goodspeed Opera House. Kudzu is directed by Lisa Portes (the associate artistic director of NY's SoHo Rep).

For tickets, call (703) 218-6500 or (800) 955-5566.

-- By David Lefkowitz
and Rebecca Paller