L.A. Theatre Works' live radio theatre series presents Keith Carradine in the world premiere of Nick Olcott's adaptation of Joyce Carol Oates' novel, American Appetites. Gordon Hunt directs a cast that also includes Jean Louisa Kelly, Dan Lauria, Frank Muller and B.J. Ward. The five performances at the Skirball Cultural Center are July 5, 6, 7 and 9 (two shows). All performances are recorded before a live audience for future broadcast on KCRW 89.9 FM.

In American Appetites, the facade of an affluent suburban couple is ripped away by the hand of tragedy and scandal. When Ian McCullough accidentally pushes his wife, Glynnis, through a plate glass window during an argument, the American dreams turns into a nightmare.

Oates' novel "has the visceral power of real tragedy," said Olcott. "Forces both within and without destroy a man with the perfect American life. He does not will its destruction, yet his own actions and choices bring it on. The moral dilemma the author creates for her protagonist is fascinatingly complex."

Olcott has penned many stage adaptations of literary classics, such as Jane Austen's "Emma," Bram Stoker's "Dracula" and John Steinbeck's "The Pearl." He is associate artistic director of the Round House Theatre in Silver Springs, MD.

Carradine, son of the late John Carradine, created the role of Will Rogers on Broadway in The Will Rogers Follies. Skirball Cultural Center is located at 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd. For tickets and information call (310) 827- 0889.

-- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent