Less than a month after his visit was announced, Bob Saget canceled.

And now Program Board finds itself without a major spring performer. The group should take every possible step to book a big-name performance within the semester.

Saget’s cancellation is unfortunate. His act likely would have drawn a large crowd; many students anticipated his visit.

But his agent was correct to note that, as Saget’s schedule became busier, it would be best for Program Board to find a replacement. The comedian’s performance had already been rescheduled for April 25. Further rescheduling could have bumped the act back into the fall semester – which would have left students without a spring performance.

Likewise, Program Board officials have indicated that they have a list of possible performers, including Demetri Martin and Jeff Dunham. Either would make for a strong show. There is little reason to think Program Board cannot find a suitable replacement.

For students, timing does matter. If there is no major performer this spring, this would make for an unfortunate lull. And for those who graduate in May or August, a fall performance means little.

Program Board should continue to pursue all possible avenues for a spring performance. Student leaders should keep their options open; this would allow them to select from multiple performers for this semester.

We trust Program Board is taking these steps. The group should also place extra emphasis on finding a performer whose schedule is fairly certain. It would be unfortunate to have another cancellation. A second cancellation might provide too little time to find another replacement for spring. Program Board should try to find a performer who is willing to commit to a CMU visit.

The group also should try to publicize its search, to whatever extent this is possible under contract. As the group narrows its options, it should ask students whom they would prefer to see.

Full transparency may not be possible within the university’s contracts. But Program Board should strive toward as much transparency as possible and seek student feedback when possible.

The spring semester is only halfway done. It’s not too late for Program Board to recoup from Saget’s cancellation. It’s not too late to find another strong performer for April.

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