Chicago theatergoers are savvy. They want to see the best and the brightest and they want to see it first -- preferably before it goes to Broadway or, in the case of 'Wicked,' early into the show's first national tour.

In the 51/2 years we've been presenting shows, we've really only had four or five changes and two cancellations up until [this season]. Unfortunately, we know you're only as good as you are right now.

We're careful about not announcing anything until we're reasonably certain it will come here. Our intention is to always take the minimum amount of risk to deliver what our subscribers are looking for.

No, most cities aren't dealing with these issues, but most cities aren't bringing in as many shows in any given year as we are.

I am going to St. Petersburg, Florida, tomorrow. Let the worthy citizens of Chicago get their liquor the best they can. I'm sick of the job-it's a thankless one and full of grief. I've been spending the best years of my life as a public benefactor.

It's one of his first appearances in the Chicago area.