Of the scores of shows I reviewed in Chicago during 2012, here are the select few that, upon further consideration, I liked best of all. As is our tradition, the top 10 shows of 2012 appear in order of wonderfulness. The list does not include two shows scheduled to open after it was compiled: the tours of "War Horse" and "The Book of Mormon." For the record, I saw both of those shows on Broadway and greatly admired them. Further for the record, I rewrote this list several times; it was that difficult. All are Chicago-area shows that have opened since Jan. 1, chosen without regard to resident or touring status and without particular consideration of budget or scope. The only criterion was excellence. -- Chris Jones