One of my favorite collaborators has a new opera opening at New York City Opera tonight. I saw it last year in Santa Barbara and it was really fun. Yes, I said fun. It’s a thriller — and an suspenseful one at that. Hard to believe no one’s thought to make opera exciting before.

Finally.

I went to my first game of the year last week, and it was a blast. The Dodgers beat the Giants in a close game — and as an added bonus, there were fireworks! While my hopes for the season are somewhat muted (apparently it’s difficult for some people to improve a team and get divorced at the same time), I am still excited for the many nine-inning-vacations that await me in the coming months.

Ok, for starters, let me just say that I love Chicago. I’m not just saying that because one of my shows is getting produced there (“Snapshots” at the Northlight Theater in Skokie), or because of the hot dogs (check out Portillios), or because there are three — count ’em three — baseball teams within easy driving distance (yes, the Brewers are technically a team), but because it’s a first rate city. Just as a point of comparison: New York is a first rate city. So is LA. And Miami. And Seattle. They are cities with more than just a local Chili’s or Subway — they are cities with flavor. With class. With their own unique vibe. Plus they’re on the water. The ocean. The river. The lake. I could live in Chicago – and that’s saying something.

I am headed back there on Sunday for casting. And I’m looking forward to it. This trip will include actors and pizza. Both first rate, by the way. Chicago is my kind of town. And that’s all I have to say about that.