Producer of The Bitter Jester Music Festival, The Purple Shirts, unique entertainment for events, and The Comic Thread Sketch Comedy Troupe.
For information on the 2024 Bitter Jester Music Festival (and how to apply), click here!
The Bitter Jester Foundation for the Arts (BJFA) promotes the benefits of the arts to the public and fosters economic growth through original music and theatrical performances that unite diverse artists, audiences, and local businesses. BJFA’s flagship music festival empowers youth at a critical time in their personal and artistic development by providing unparalleled educational, hands-on learning, and peer networking opportunities unavailable elsewhere.
Specific programs include the 26-year-old Comic Thread sketch comedy troupe (currently on hiatus), the 19-year-old Bitter Jester Music Festival for youth across the Midwest, and the 18-year-old Purple Shirts ensemble, performing live written works for intimate events.
Partnerships include the City of Highland Park, IL (supporting the Bitter Jester Music Festival), Navy Pier (hosting Best Of showcase concerts of Music Festival winners), Ravinia Festival (featuring BJMF winning bands at special showcase concerts), and many others! BJFA is supported, in part, by the generous support of First Bank of Highland Park, grants from the Highland Park Community Foundation, as well as donations from people like you!
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Some exciting news: the “Waiting In Line” sketch series, written by and starring members of The Comic Thread, recently won an Emmy award for Outstanding Photography (award shared by Director of Photography Daniel Kullman from Bitter Jester Studios and Camera Operator Mike D’Angelo from WGN). The Comic Thread’s “Engagement Party” short film previously won an Emmy for Outstanding Cinematography. Watch both below!
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Past and Current Supporters of the
Bitter Jester Music Festival:
