After 17 years, off-Broadway's Lamb's Theatre Company will bids farewell to the theatregoing public. Founding director, Carolyn Rossi Copeland has decided to close down the company and space to pursue other endeavors.

As founding director, Copeland produced over sixty Off-Broadway plays and such musicals as Smoke on the Mountain, Opal, Johnny Pye and the Foolkiller, Gifts of the Magi and john and jen. She also oversaw the renovation of the landmark Lamb's Mainstage Theatre which housed such productions as Godspell, The Boys Next Door, Olympus On My Mind and the long running Beau Jest.

Though the theatre company is closing down, the building which currently house The Lamb's Theatre Mainstage will continue to thrive. Opening September 4 is Matty: An Evening With Christy Mathewson (previews August 28).

Hundreds of invitations have been sent out to former actors, musicians and the staff of the Lamb's productions for the final farewell bash to be held on Monday, September 9 at the theatre (130 W. 44th St. between Sixth and Seventh Avenues). According to a spokesperson, Copeland wanted to say farewell with a bang and reunited with as many of the people who worked on the productions since 1979. Those who haven't received their invitations should call Joseph Thompson at (212) 997-0210.

--By Katia Lundy