WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Nude dancing took center stage as the U.S. Supreme Court had a new look at whether the Constitution's protection of free speech covers erotic expressive entertainment performed without any clothes.

An establishment called Kandyland is challenging an Erie, Pennsylvania, law that made it a crime to appear nude in ''taverns, restaurants, clubs, theaters, dance halls, banquet halls or halls limited to specific members.''

Kandyland lawyer John Weston told the justices that ``In 1999, nude entertainment has become a significant staple of the

American scene.'' A decision is expected by the end of June.