Harlem Song, the new song-and-dance evening of Harlem history from George C. Wolfe, will hold open auditions May 4 at the Apollo Theatre. Line-up starts at 8 AM for 10 AM auditions.

Wolfe is looking for multi-ethinic singers, dancers and actor s. Applicants must be between 20 and 40 and come prepared to sing and dance (tap skills are a plus). Male singers must prepare a 1940's swing tune and funky R&B tune, while female singers must present an Ella Fitzgerald-style swing number, a Mahalia Jackson gospel song and a 1970's R&B tune. Comedic actresses-singers should prepare an up-tempo swing number. All must be actors who move well.

For updated rehearsal information, call (212) 245-4813. Do not call the theatre.

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A retrospective of Harlem's history, Harlem Song revisits the great songs that have come out of the neighborhood's vibrant musical community, be they jazz standards or rap and R & B hits. Using projections and photographs, the musical will recreate life in Harlem from the Jazz Age and the Harlem Renaissance to the area's current spirit of urban renewel and economic rebirth. Designing the show are Jules Fisher and Peggy Eisenhauer (lighting), Riccardo Hernandez (settings), Paul Tazewell (costumes) and Batwi n and Robin (multi-media). Daryl Waters and Zane Mark are the musical directors.

Harlem Song's producers include The John Schreiber Group, Wolfe, musical theatre composer Frank Wildhorn, David Goodman, Margo Lion, Daryl Roth, music industry le gend Herb Alpert and actress (and Thoroughly Modern Millie producer) Whoopi Goldberg.

Tickets are $20-$55. Harlem Song, beginning performances July 6, will run on a three day a week schedule, playing three shows on Saturday, two on Sund ay and two on Monday. For reservations, call (212) 307-7171. The Apollo Theatre is located at 253 West 125th Street. Harlem Song is on the web at http://www.harlemsong.com.

— By Christine Ehren