Off-Broadway's Love, Janis will close at downtown's Village Theater Jan. 5, 2003.

Janis, a musical tribute to blues rocker Janis Joplin, began previews back on April 10, 2001. Reviews were mixed and the production teetered on the brink following the events of Sept. 11, 2001. Also, the production has had some trouble retaining selected actresses playing Joplin. (Laura Branigan and Amy Jo Johnson both abruptly exited after two performances.) Still, the producers persevered and their dedication resulted in a run of 713 performances and 13 previews.

Love, Janis currently stars Sass Jordan, Katrina Chester, and Dana Fuchs as "Singing Janis" and Kate Forbes and Wendy Hoopes as "Speaking Janis."

Love, Janis: The Songs, The Soul of Janis Joplin was conceived, adapted and directed by Randal Myler. The show played the Bay Street Theatre in Sag Harbor, Long Island, in summer 2000.

For tickets and information on Love, Janis at the Village Theatre, 158 Bleecker Street, call (212) 307-4100. Also visit their website at www.lovejanis.com. —By Robert Simonson