Performances of the stage version of the classic movie musical will now play Off-Broadway to Feb. 18. Irish Rep is at 132 W. 22nd Street.

The production, directed by Charlotte Moore and featuring Broadway legend George S. Irving as Grandpa, began previews Dec. 6, 2006, and opened Dec. 14.

Music direction is by John Bell, and choreography is by Barry McNabb.

Adapted from Sally Benson's short vignettes entitled "5135 Kensington," Meet Me in St. Louis is the story of the Smith family as they eagerly anticipate the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis.

The book is by Hugh Wheeler, the songs — including "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," "They Boy Next Door" and "The Trolley Song" — are by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane. The cast includes John Hickok as Mr. Smith, Sarah Pfisterer as Mrs. Smith, Becky Barta as Katie, real sisters Danielle and Gabrielle Piacentile as the two younger Smith sisters, Doug Boes, Merideth Kaye Clark, Kerry Conte, Ashley Robinson and newcomer Bonnie Fraser as Esther (the Judy Garland-created role) and Colin Donnell as the boy next door.

Performances of Meet Me in St. Louis are Wednesday-Saturday at 8 PM, with matinees Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday at 3 PM.

Tickets are $60 and $55 and can be purchased by calling The Irish Repertory Theatre Box Office at (212) 727-2737. For more information visit www.irishrep.org.