The Mormon Church say members "may not agree" with The Book of Mormon musical but they will not be staging "banner-waving protests outside the Leeds Grand Theatre".
The award-winning musical comedy, which has been described as "a satirical examination" of the church's practices and beliefs, is coming to the theatre in Leeds next year.
It follows a pair of Mormon boys who try to preach their religion to people living in a remote Ugandan village.
The church, which is officially known as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is not a fan of the musical, but it is not trying to stop people from seeing it.
Church spokesman Greg Nettleship said: “Book of Mormon – the Musical is not in any way connected with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, whose members regard the real Book of Mormon and the Bible as scripture.
"The musical parodies the work of church missionaries in a way many would find offensive.
"However, you will not find banner-waving protesters outside Leeds Grand Theatre. Church members may not agree with the satirical portrayal of our missionaries but we recognise that people are free to choose whatever entertainment they will.
"Freedom of speech is important to us, as we too enjoy that same freedom, when sharing our religious message with anyone who wants to hear it.
"In other cities where the musical has been staged, we have experienced increased interest from people wanting to know more about the church and the work of the real missionaries.
"One of England’s four missions is based in Leeds. From its headquarters in Horsforth over 150 young volunteer missionaries working in pairs from 44 countries are assigned to take their Christian message to towns and cities across Yorkshire and beyond.
"Those who listen find that the Book of Mormon can change lives. It contains messages of hope, peace and joy."
He added: "We express no opinion about whether anyone should see the musical but we strongly invite all individuals to read the real Book of Mormon and find out the truth about it for themselves."
Since making its world premiere in March 2011 at New York’s Eugene O’Neill Theatre where it won nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical, The Book of Mormon has been performed on three continents and won over 30 international awards.
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