ST. CLOUD - What do you get when you combine traditional Scandinavian values with musical comedy? The answer to that is "Don't Hug Me, I'm Pregnant," a play about a bar-owning Minnesota couple expecting their first child, which kicks off its St. Cloud run tonight at the Paramount Theatre.

Phil Olson is the show's writer and lyricist. He lives in Los Angeles now, but grew up in small-town, Nordic-influenced Minnesota. He says the titles and content of the four plays in his "Don't Hug Me" series are definitely inspired by his upbringing.

The St. Cloud production includes all of the original cast members from when the show was conceived 8 years ago.

Olson says they're received a loyal following since that time, and the troupe has subsequently performed all around the Midwest together.

While the scene and characters in "Don't Hug Me, I'm Pregnant" are undoubtedly comprised of uniquely Minnesota characteristics, the show has nevertheless found fans throughout the country. In fact, Olson says he's currently in meetings to turn the series into a national television sitcom pilot.

"Don't Hug Me, I'm Pregnant" begins on Thursday with shows at 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., as well as Friday and Saturday nights at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $19.

If you'd like to catch a preview and  chats with cast and writer Phil Olson...check out the video below.

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