New York's Ensemble Studio Theatre and Youngblood will present Gretty Good Time by Youngblood member John Belluso, beginning Jan. 20 for a Jan. 24, 1999 opening.

Youngblood is a program created by the Ensemble Studio Theatre in 1993 to introduce young playwrights (between ages 18 and 25) to the world of professional theatre. In December 1997, Youngblood presented an evening of one-acts, Thicker Than Water, marking the first time the work of the group was presented in full production for both public and press. Belluso's Knot Stew was included in the evening.

Set in 1955, Gretty Good Time mixes historical fiction and fact. Gretty, paralyzed and living in a nursing home, receives numerous visitations in her dreams. Ralph Edwards, famed television host of "This Is Your Life," takes Gretty on a journey where she encounters Hedeko, a young Japanese woman disfigured in from the bombing of Hiroshima.

The cast, helmed by Susann Brinkley, includes: Fiona Gallagher, Anna Li, Richard Paul and Dolores Sutton.

Gretty Good Time begins performances Jan. 20 and opens Jan. 24 at Youngblood's performing space, 539 W. 52nd St. between 10th and 11th Avenues. For tickets, call (212) 247-4982. -- By Sean McGrath