New York Stage and Film will present the East Coast premiere of Toni Ann Johnson's Gramercy Park is Closed to the Public, at their Powerhouse Theater, July 21 - Aug. 1.

In Gramercy, Luna has a habit of getting involved with white men -- a habit not looked upon favorably by her proud black grandmother. When one of those relationships ends in a senseless tragedy, Luna winds up a single mother. Years, later, with the help of her young son, support from his poverty- stricken best friend, and the kindness of a white police officer - Luna learns what it is to love again.

Starring in Gramercy are Nicole Ari Parker ("Boogie Nights," "200 Cigarettes") and David Warshovsky (Carousel & "Born on the Fourth of July"). Judy Minor will direct.

Playwright Johnson, a graduate of NYU's Tisch School of the Arts, will return to her native state after spending time at the prestigious Sundance Institute's Screenwriter's Lab. Other plays by Johnson include Mommy Loves You and Here in My Father's House.

In 1996, New York Stage and Film produced the world premiere of the current Broadway hit, Side Man. For tickets ($23) or more information, call (914) 437-7235.

-- By Sean McGrath