Bitter Jester Foundation for the Arts, NFP

The Bitter Jester Foundation for the Arts, NFP (BJFA) is a 501(c)(3) Charitable Organization based in Highland Park, Illinois. BJFA produces the annual Bitter Jester Music Festival for young performers from across the Midwest. The organization was founded to produce live music and theatrical productions of new and classic works as well as other forms of literary arts, performing arts, and entertainment productions.

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.

BJFA also produces the award-winning Comic Thread sketch comedy troupe (BEST GROUP: LA Comedy Fest; AUDIENCE CHOICE: Chicago Fringe Fest; "Brilliant" according to SNL founding cast member Garrett Morris), and The Purple Shirts performance ensemble.