The Gorillaz inspired opera for which Damon Albarn wrote the music is set to debut this week in the U.S.

Monkey: Journey To The West is an adaptation of an ancient Chinese legend, the opera follows the story of the Monkey King, a hyperactive ape who gains immortality after leading a revolt against heaven.

The show, which premiered in Manchester, was designed by Gorillaz artist Jamie Hewlett and directed by Chen Shi-Zheng, and is a mixture of stunning live-action circus acts and animations.

The opera will be performed 18 times between May 23 and June 8 at the Spoleto Festival USA in Charleston, South Carolina. The show will open in London two months later at the Royal Opera House.