The U.S. Olympic Committee doesn't think that the name of Chicago's ImprovOlympic Theater is very funny.
The comedy club, a fixture on Chicago's comedy scene for 25 years, is changing its name to the I.O. Theater after owner and director Chara Halpren received a legal threat from Olympic officials.
"I think it's because I'm getting more and more famous and they have the trademark on 'Olympic'," Halpren told the Chicago Tribune. The club serves as a comedic training ground and performance venue with alumni that include Mike Myers, Tina Fey and the late Chris Farley.
The U.S. Olympic Committee contacted Halpren about changing the name five years ago. She decided to change the name to avoid a lawsuit after receiving a cease-and-desist letter earlier this year.
© Copyright 2005 by United Press International
