Heather Matarazzo first attracted attention as the junior higher enduring the growing pains from hell in "Welcome to the Dollhouse," while Olivia Birkelund grabbed some with a steamy role in "The Bone Collector" and as Arlene Vaughn in "All My Children." Both actresses star in Servicemen, a World War II drama about the pursuit of attention from departing G.I.s, receiving its New York premiere March 13-April 29 with the New Group.

In this play by Evan Smith, a lonely socialite and a draft-dodging playboy bump up against each other in the New York nightlife during World War II. They compete for the attentions of various departing soldiers until one boy's patriotic sacrifice destroys their world as they know it. Smith is also the author of The Uneasy Chair and Psych, planned for Playwrights Horizon's next season.

Also starring in Servicemen are eric Martin Brown, Steven Polito ("To Wong Foo," The Hedda Lettuce Show), Anthony Veneziale and William Westenberg.

The design team features Derek McLane (sets), Jeff Croiter (lighting), Favian Obispo (sound) and Cathy Zuber and Alejo Vietti (costumes).

Opening night is March 25. Tickets are $35-$25. The New Group Theatre at St. Clement's Church is located at 423 West 46th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues. For reservations, call (212) 279-4200.. — By Christine Ehren