'Jerry Springer the Opera' in Chicago

CHICAGO, Nov. 8 (UPI) -- "Jerry Springer the Opera," which was a hit in London, will premiere in the United States at Chicago's Bailiwick Repertory Theatre in May.

"The original producers wanted to start out in Jerry's hometown," said Bailiwick artistic director David Zak. "And we know that our audience won't be offended," the Chicago Tribune reported Wednesday.

Richard Thomas did the music in the show, with book and lyrics credited to Thomas and Stewart Lee.

Zak will direct the show, which is the highest profile production in the Bailiwick's 25-year history.