Mississippi Sugar, a new play by Randy Redd adapted from short stories by Lewis Nordan, receives a reading Apr. 6 at 7 PM at NY's Playwrights Studio Theatre.

The plot revolves around a man who returns to the fictional town of Arrow Catcher, Mississippi -- where fond memories of his Delta childhood lead to a startling tale of family discord.

The play incorporates blues, folk music and traditional tunes.

The reading will be directed by Martin LaPlatney. The cast includes Spike McClure, Lori Putnam, Randy Redd, Blair Ross, Bernie Sheredy, Ken Triwush and Spence White. Rob Berman is the musical director.

Mississippi Sugar was originally developed and produced at the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, where the reviews were good ("Nordan's touch for fresh astonishing detail, maintained by Redd, stabs cliche and cuts straight for the beating heart," wrote one critic, while another said the work "is destined to become an oft-produced piece of Americana"). Nordan is the author of three collections of short stories and four novels (Music of the Swamp, Wolf Whistle, The Sharpshooter Blues and Lightning Song).

For reservations, call (212) 501-3892.

-- By Rebecca Paller