Chicago popular group's songlist will be the basis for a new musical called "Colour My World," named after a hit Chicago ballad (and perennial prom theme) from 1971, a spokesman confirmed.

Richard Akins and his wife Janina are producing. Jeff Arch, a screenwriter whose credits include "Sleepless in Seattle," will write the book. Doug Katsaros is musical director. Akins hopes to open at a regional theatre in spring of summer 2005, then make another out-of-town stop before reaching Broadway.

The story will concern two friends and college fraternity brothers. One pursues a career in the entertainment business, the other becomes an artist, and each finds some disappointment in the fulfillment of their dreams.
More than 20 Chicago tunes will be used like "25 or 6 to 4," "Hard to Say I'm Sorry," "Beginnings" and "You're the Inspiration". Some songs will be used only as instrumentals.