Chicago's Naked Comedy Show pops up before Naked Bike Ride

• The showcase comes to Chicago after sold-out shows in New York, Philadelphia and Los Angeles.
• The performance arrives ahead of the annual World Naked Bike Ride, happening Saturday.

What they're saying: "I was surprised by how excited Chicago's comedy scene was to do the show," producer Billy Procida tells Axios.

• "Normally I need to ask 10, 15, 20 comics in a new city to get a five-person lineup. Almost everyone I asked said 'yes' right away! I think that's because this scene has always been into experimental and alternative comedy."

Zoom in: Chicago's lineup will feature Danny Lang, Manny Petty, Tory Ward, Adam Kwaselow and Evelyn Troutman.

The intrigue: Procida said he researched Chicago's rules before booking the show and structured it as an adults-only performance in which comics arrive nude rather than strip onstage and no sexual acts are part of the act.

• But, as his showcase expands, he'll need to do more research on the laws of each particular state and municipality.

Zoom out: Naked performances aren't new to Chicago. Naked storytelling events, burlesque and stand-up shows have all happened before, but mostly in theater settings.

• "I was also surprised by how many Chicago comedy venues were both interested and also too nervous to give me the green light," Procida adds.
• "I guess a sold-out show can be a scary thing for some places. I get it."

If you go: Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at the door. The show is Friday at Crib Comedy Playspace (2715 W. Madison Street).

• You can sign up here for more information.