Kudzu, a musical based on Doug Marlette's syndicated comic strip about the coming-of-age antics of one Kudzu Dubose, begins preview performances Mar. 4 at Ford's Theatre in Washington, DC. Opening night is Mar. 10.

Kudzu is scheduled to run at least until June.

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 Rebecca Paller