For as rocky a start as the con got off to for my daughter and me (first David Tennant, who was the main attraction for my daughter, canceling even before we left, and then her bag didn't make it to Chicago until Saturday morning from our Friday evening flight), we had a really great time. I have to commend Wizard on the way they handled the David Tennant situation, by not only giving refunds to anyone who had purchased a David Tennant VIP, autograph or photo op, but by giving a weekend pass to any other Wizard show in 2017 (hoping that they can land David Tennant for Austin ), and VIP holders still received their entire package other than the David Tennant autograph and photo op (there was quite a bit of Doctor Who merchandise), including a VIP admission to WW Chicago and all the perks that come with being a VIP.
Unlike most boardies, we were there mainly for the "experience," and other than celebs routinely being late to Q&A's and signings, the experience was great for us. And while this was my first WW Chicago, based on accounts I've read and heard from prior years, I could tell the show wasn't what is used to be, which is sad since it is Wizard's #1 show. But after having been to WW Philadelphia earlier this year, it's clear Wizard is losing touch with what it takes to put on a show that makes attendees AND exhibitors look forward to coming back the next year.
On a side note, I know virtually nothing about John Barrowman, but I have now seen his Q&A at Fan Expo Dallas and WW Chicago, and the man is insanely entertaining. Even if you're not in to panels or Q&A's, I would highly recommend going to one for John Barrowman if you have the chance. You won't regret it.