I'm not an advocate of true rhymes, I don't think. I think that everyone who writes musical theater needs to know how to do true rhymes, because that's the tradition of it, but I do think that in order for the art form to grow, it's important to not let tradition get in the way of innovation.

My first writing job was with a company called TheatreworksUSA.

The things that I have done that haven't been as successful have been things that have been largely out of the public view, which is great. It's terrible, when you're a theater writer, to have a big flop publicly.

I try to turn off the TV and play with my kids as much as I can, and I always hope they're having as good a time as Mormon kids.

It seems like when I first started, people got into comedy because they wanted to be good comedians.

Mel Brooks is one of the few authentic geniuses working in comedy in America today.

I am convinced that tough villains help make a comedy sparkle because they provide a contrast to the funny guys.

My sister was very, very beautiful and I was very not. Doing comedy is the greatest thing ever because you don't have to do that, and I've since learned to let go of that.