FIRST OFF . . .

Rock Response--the star-adorned benefit pop concert set for Jan. 14 and designed to start funding an enhanced search for a cure for AIDS--has been postponed by the event’s organizers. The Universal Amphitheatre show, which was to feature such performers as Lou Reed, the Bangles, Taylor Dayne, Kiss, Squeeze and Tom Jones, has been shelved “in order to be restructured as a syndicated television special” to be aired later in the year. Paul Colichman, president of the benefit’s organizing committee, said Saturday that the change in the benefit’s medium and format was due to unexpectedly heavy positive response from performers clamoring to be included in the show. “We believe making Rock Response a television event . . . will garner more revenues to be utilized in the fight against AIDS than (was) possible with our previous format.” Instead of a string of performances, Colichman said the TV version will include messages from various celebrities on the importance of safe sexual practice and information about AIDS. For those who already purchased tickets for the Jan. 14 show, refund information is available from the Amphitheatre box office.