Walnut Street Theatre's Independence Studio on 3 continues its 1999 season with Lyle Kessler's drama, Orphans, running March 2-14 and officially opening March 3. William Roudebush directs this tale of two Philadelphia brothers who kidnap a rich man, only to have him turn the tables on them.

John Lumia, David Disbrow and Tom McCarthy star as Treat, Phillip and Harold (respectively).

The Maids opened the Walnut Studio on 3 season, Jan. 5-17, followed by Portrait of a Nude. Next up, Will Stutts will direct his own play, Oscar Wilde's Lover, March 30-April 11. This world premiere production tells of playwright Wilde's relationship with his lover Lord Alfred Douglas, which led to Wilde's destruction and -- possibly -- his immortality. The tale was told twice in New York last season, on Broadway in The Judas Kiss and Off-Broadway in Gross Indecency.

The Studio's season will close with Hare's Skylight, April 27-May 9, 1999. This drama explores the relationship of a businessman and his mistress who meet again three years after they've parted. No director has yet been announced.

For tickets and information, call (215) 574-3550, ext. 4. -- By Christine Ehren and David Lefkowitz