'American Idiot' among Broadway in Chicago's 2012 offerings

The ace in Broadway in Chicago's hole may well be the previously announced December 2012 arrival of “The Book of Mormon” — the nine-time Tony Award winning musical by “South Park” creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone — for what could be an extended run at the Bank of American Theatre.

BIC's announcement Thursday of its spring 2012 season includes a couple more choice cards including Green Day's punk-rock driven “American Idiot” inspired by the group's hit album of the same name (Feb. 7-19); choreographer Bill T. Jones” “Fela” about the Nigerian musician Fela Kuti (March 27-April 8) and the return of the truly gorgeous 2008 revival of “South Pacific” (Feb 14-26).

BIC also announced that a production of “Bring it On: The Musical” based on the movie about rival cheerleading squads — which premiered earlier this year at Atlanta's Alliance Theatre — will play the Cadillac Palace Theatre March 6 to 25.

As far as the other shows in the series go, it's déjà vu all over again. They include “Jersey Boys,” the savvy jukebox musical about Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons” (April 5-June 2); the hip-hop musical “In The Heights” which is currently being developed for film (Jan. 10-15); the ABBA greatest hits showcase “Mamma Mia!” (Jan. 24-29); “Riverdance,” which comes to town in time for St. Patrick's Day (March 13-18); and “Cats” (May 1-6).

Season subscriptions go on sale Sept. 18 at broadwayinchicago.com or by phone at (312) 977-1717.