Talk about artful musicals. Last year, the jaw-dropping design for The Boys from Syracuse at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music referenced the Memphis School. This month, CCM resident scenic designer Tom Umfrid (in his 17th year on faculty) draws inspiration from Dutch artist Piet Mondrian for all-American On the Town, a glorious valentine to New York, about three sailors on 24-hour leave in NYC before shipping out for World War II.

It's a perfect fit, says Umfrid. "Mondrian emigrated to New York in 1940, and he was stimulated by the view from his East 56th Street window. In the last years of his life, he created a startling series of paintings that reflect the complexity and energy of New York.

"My intent was not to re-create a literal New York with recognizable landmarks but to evoke a time and place as seen through the eyes of three high-spirited sailors looking for love and adventure in a mythic urban wonderland. Mondrian's series culminated with 'Broadway Boogie-Woogie,' from which I have liberally paraphrased and abstracted my design."

Boys was one of the great shows of last season. On the Town plays Nov. 20-23. For reservations and information, call the CCM box office at 556-4183. (Don't miss what should be a sell-out.)